Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103639D) is a Certificate III delivered by New England School of English Pty. Ltd. over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This nationally recognised VET qualification (AUR30620) is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in automotive repair and maintenance. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03431G), New England School of English offers this course at two Gold Coast locations: Surfers Paradise and Southport. Whether you're aiming to work as a light vehicle mechanic or continue to higher-level automotive studies, this course provides the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed study decisions in Australia.
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Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103639D) is a Certificate III delivered by New England School of English Pty. Ltd. over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is classified under Field of Education 0305 – Automotive Engineering and Technology, specifically Vehicle Mechanics (030503). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. As a VET course at AQF Level 3, it prepares students for roles such as light vehicle mechanical technician or mechanic. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring international students are protected under the ESOS Act. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this course represents a solid pathway into the automotive industry.
The Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology focuses on the skills required to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles such as cars, utes, and vans. Typical learning areas include automotive electrical systems, engine mechanics, steering and suspension, braking systems, and workplace health and safety. Students gain practical experience in workshops, learning to use diagnostic equipment and hand tools. While the exact syllabus is set by New England School of English Pty. Ltd., graduates are expected to be able to perform routine servicing and complex repairs under supervision. This course is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving and have an interest in how vehicles work. The Gold Coast location offers access to a growing automotive industry and a vibrant student community.
Duration: 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The full-time course is delivered in English, with no work component or mandatory industry placement. It is a single qualification (not a combined diploma or degree). Classes are likely to be held at the provider's training facilities in Surfers Paradise or Southport. International students should note that the student visa (Subclass 500) generally requires full-time study with minimum 20 contact hours per week. This course meets that requirement. The 78-week duration includes scheduled breaks, during which students may work unlimited hours under their visa conditions.
Tuition: A$22,000; Non-tuition fees: A$2,000; Estimated Total: A$24,000. These are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by New England School of English Pty. Ltd. They are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated at A$28,000 per year for a single student in Gold Coast), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always check the provider's website at http://www.nec.edu.au for the most current fees. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees or commissions from any institution.
General English proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent, and may need to demonstrate aptitude in mathematics and science. No formal foundation studies are attached to this course, but New England School of English may offer pathway options. Contact the provider directly for specific academic and English language prerequisites. International students must also meet genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirements. This is general guidance only; always refer to the provider and the Department of Home Affairs for official requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs while studying. Note that work must not interfere with course attendance and progress.
This course is delivered at two Gold Coast locations: Level 3, 38 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 (Surfers Paradise) and 13 Nerang Street, Southport QLD 4215 (Southport). Both are in Queensland's Gold Coast region, home to over 10,000 international students and more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers. Surfers Paradise is a major tourist hub with excellent public transport (trams and buses), while Southport is the commercial centre with easy access to shops and services. Typical living costs in Gold Coast: weekly rent for shared accommodation A$250–350, groceries A$70–100, public transport A$40–60. The state of Queensland offers a warm climate and diverse lifestyle.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes, make satisfactory course progress, and maintain OSHC for the duration. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, unlimited during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion. Financial capacity proof is required — typically show funds to cover tuition, living costs (A$28,000/year), and travel. The ESOS Act provides consumer protection, including tuition refund guarantees under certain conditions. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for visa applications.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers offering Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620) in Queensland. New England School of English is one of several options. Compare based on location, fees, and facilities. Step 2: Apply directly to New England School of English Pty. Ltd. Submit your application with academic transcripts, English test results, and any required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website http://www.nec.edu.au. Step 3: If accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not process applications.
The Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, with a large international student community, warm weather, and strong job market in hospitality and retail. For automotive students, the region has numerous workshops and dealerships that may offer part-time work. However, living costs are higher than in smaller cities. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. Public transport connects all campuses, and the Gold Coast Airport offers direct flights to major Asian cities. If you prefer a quieter environment, regional Queensland options might suit better. HeadStart Academy's course filter lets you compare providers across all states to find the best fit.
Ready to start your automotive career? Compare Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology courses across CRICOS-registered providers in Queensland at HeadStart Academy.
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Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at New England School of English Pty. Ltd.. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.