Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103648C) is a Certificate III delivered by Crown Education Pty Ltd over 2 years. This nationally recognised qualification (VET national code AUR30620) equips students with the skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles, such as cars and 4WDs. The course is offered at two campuses in New South Wales: the Trinity Smith St Parramatta Campus in Parramatta and the Trinity Sydney City Campus in Haymarket. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and Crown Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03556F) is one of them. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access only genuine, government-approved options. Whether you aim to work in the automotive industry or pursue further studies, this qualification provides a solid foundation. Read on for details on fees, entry requirements, work component, delivery locations, and visa guidance.
This qualification falls under the field of education '03 - Engineering and Related Technologies', specifically within '0305 - Automotive Engineering and Technology' and '030503 - Vehicle Mechanics'. At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students learn to perform a broad range of tasks involving skilled work in the automotive service and repair industry. Typical learning outcomes include diagnosing and repairing faults in engines, transmissions, steering, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems. Students also develop skills in using diagnostic equipment, interpreting technical manuals, and applying workplace health and safety practices. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical hands-on training, preparing graduates for roles such as light vehicle mechanic, automotive service technician, or diagnostic technician. While the specific syllabus is set by Crown Education Pty Ltd, the CRICOS registration ensures that the course meets Australian quality standards for international students. Importantly, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, giving students legal rights regarding refunds, complaints, and course quality.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 2 years, which equates to 104 weeks. The language of instruction is English, so students should be prepared to study, communicate, and complete assessments in English. This is a single qualification, meaning it is not a dual or combined award. It is also not a foundation studies program; it is a standalone vocational qualification. Study modes are typically full-time, with classes held at the campus locations. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are required to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory attendance. The duration includes both classroom learning and the mandatory work component (see below). For specific timetables and study mode details, contact Crown Education Pty Ltd directly.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$32,000, with non-tuition fees of A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$32,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. OSHC is mandatory for international students; costs vary by provider and coverage length. Living expenses in Australia are estimated at approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), but actual costs depend on your lifestyle and location. In Parramatta and Sydney, weekly rent for a shared room may range from A$200–A$350, groceries around A$60–A$100, and public transport A$30–A$50. Always confirm current fees directly with Crown Education Pty Ltd via their website (www.trinityinstitute.edu.au) before applying. HeadStart Academy does not set fees and provides them as a guide only.
While specific entry requirements are determined by Crown Education Pty Ltd, typical expectations for a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) course include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent with satisfactory results. For international students, English language proficiency is key: the indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may also accept PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English scores. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) may be available — refer to the provider for details. Additionally, applicants should have a genuine interest in automotive mechanics and may need to demonstrate relevant work experience or aptitude. Always check the provider's website for precise entry requirements, as they can vary.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 18 weeks, with 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 360 hours. This work-integrated learning could take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement (depending on the field) in a real automotive workshop. The work component gives you the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting, build industry connections, and gain hands-on experience that is highly valued by employers. It also helps you meet the competency requirements of the qualification. For international students, work placements are typically structured as part of the course, so they do not count toward the student visa work limitation of 48 hours per fortnight during term. However, you should confirm the arrangement with your provider. This practical component is a key advantage of studying this course in Australia, where the automotive industry is well-regulated and offers diverse employment opportunities.
The course is delivered at two campuses: Trinity Smith St Parramatta Campus (35 Smith St, Parramatta NSW 2150) and Trinity Sydney City Campus (Haymarket, NSW). Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Western Sydney, home to a large international student community and over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers offering automotive and engineering courses. It has excellent public transport links via train, bus, and light rail, with the Parramatta railway station a short walk from the campus. Haymarket, in the heart of Sydney's central business district, is near Chinatown and offers a vibrant student lifestyle with easy access to all city amenities. Both locations benefit from Sydney's diverse culture, extensive public transport network, and ample part-time work opportunities. When choosing a campus, consider your accommodation preferences and commute: Parramatta generally has lower rent than the city centre, but both areas offer good access to services and student support.
International students who enrol in this course will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time at a CRICOS-registered institution and work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). To be granted a student visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which assesses your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. You also need to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire period of your stay in Australia. Financial capacity is another key criterion: you must demonstrate you have enough funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets minimum living cost requirements — currently A$21,041 per year for a single student. For detailed visa advice tailored to your circumstances, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance only and does not offer migration advice.
New South Wales (NSW) is Australia's most populous state and home to Sydney, a global city with a thriving economy. The automotive industry in NSW employs thousands of mechanics and technicians, with demand for skilled workers in both metro and regional areas. Studying here gives you access to well-equipped workshops, a diverse student community, and a lifestyle that blends urban excitement with natural beauty. Parramatta, often called the 'second CBD' of Sydney, has a growing student population and lower living costs than the city centre. Sydney offers iconic beaches, a multicultural food scene, and world-class transport. However, the cost of living in Sydney is high, so budget carefully. If you prefer a smaller city atmosphere, Parramatta offers a good balance. For automotive studies, NSW has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering vehicle mechanic courses, giving you plenty of options if you want to compare.
Before committing to an automotive course, think about your career goals. Certificate III is typically the entry-level qualification for light vehicle mechanics in Australia. If you aim to become a qualified mechanic, this course is essential. However, you may wish to progress to a Certificate IV or Diploma later. Also, consider the work component: hands-on experience is invaluable, so check that the provider arranges placements that match your interests. Location matters too: Parramatta and Sydney offer different lifestyles and job markets. Finally, ensure you meet the English and academic requirements, and plan your finances to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. HeadStart Academy's free resource can help you compare courses and providers, but always verify details with the institution.
Ready to become a qualified light vehicle mechanic? Explore this course on the provider's website and start your application today.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Crown Education 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.