Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103674A) is a Certificate III delivered by Durban International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~62 weeks). This qualification is designed for international students seeking practical skills in automotive mechanical technology. Graduates will be prepared for roles such as light vehicle mechanic in the automotive service and repair industry. The course is registered on CRICOS at AQF Level 3 and is offered at multiple locations in South Australia and Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian government standards for international education, ensuring students receive quality training and legal protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 103674A) is a Certificate III delivered by Durban International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~62 weeks). This course falls under the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology (Field of Education 030503 - Vehicle Mechanics). It equips students with the skills and knowledge required to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles such as cars and small vans. The curriculum covers engine systems, electrical components, steering and suspension, braking systems, and workplace health and safety. Graduates can pursue careers as light vehicle mechanics or technicians in the automotive industry. Durban International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02915G) is a private provider committed to delivering hands-on training in modern workshops.
Students in this program learn to perform a wide range of tasks related to light vehicle mechanical technology. The field of education encompasses engineering and related technologies, specifically automotive engineering. Typical learning outcomes include diagnosing faults in engines, transmissions, and electrical systems; performing routine servicing; using diagnostic equipment; and following industry safety standards. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates can expect to be competent in vehicle inspections, repairs, and customer service. This qualification prepares students for entry-level positions in workshops, dealerships, or fleet maintenance. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical workshop experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
The course runs for 1 year 2 months (62 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, and this is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students attend scheduled classes and practical sessions at the provider's campuses. The duration allows sufficient time for international students to develop technical skills and adapt to the Australian workplace culture. Given the minimum of 20 hours per week of scheduled study, students on a Student visa can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. The structured timeline supports steady progress through the curriculum.
Tuition for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is A$14,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$14,000. This figure is indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and is set by Durban International College Pty Ltd. The fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees and any additional costs (e.g., uniforms, tools, materials), always confirm directly with the provider at https://dic.edu.au/. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$21,000 per year for living costs in Australia, though this varies by city.
International students are generally expected to have an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. Academically, applicants should have completed Year 11 or an equivalent secondary qualification. This course is at Certificate III level, so prior vocational experience is not mandatory but may be beneficial. Some providers may also require a minimum age of 18. Since entry requirements can vary, it is essential to check with Durban International College directly. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course, but the provider may offer bridging programs. Always refer to the institution's official admissions policy.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This flexibility allows you to gain Australian work experience and offset living costs. Remember that work must not interfere with your study commitments. The ESOS Act ensures that your education is prioritised, and the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement expects work to be incidental to your main purpose of studying.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is delivered at four locations: Automotive Workshop - 2 Forster St, Ridleyton SA 5008; DIC Melbourne Campus - 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC; Level 1, Eastern Side, 128 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA; and Level 18, 45 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA. These campuses are situated in two major Australian cities: Adelaide (South Australia) and Melbourne (Victoria). Adelaide offers a lower cost of living with average weekly rent around A$350–450 for a one-bedroom apartment, while Melbourne is pricier at A$450–600. Both cities have excellent public transport networks, making commuting to workshops convenient. Students can choose a location that best suits their lifestyle and career goals.
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500), allowing you to study full-time in Australia. To obtain this visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The current living cost benchmark is A$21,041 per year for a single student (as per Department of Home Affairs). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides tuition fee protection and other safeguards. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions or see a registered migration agent (MARA) for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Durban International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Automotive Engineering), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne). Compare providers and confirm CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit Durban International College's website (https://dic.edu.au/) to check specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with certified academic documents, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and passport copy. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. With that, lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application through the Department of Home Affairs. Pay the visa fee, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate finances. After visa grant, prepare for your journey to Australia.
Both South Australia and Victoria offer strong pathways for automotive students. SA's automotive industry is evolving with a focus on electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing, while Victoria hosts major automotive brands and a dense workshop network. Adelaide's affordable living makes it a cost-effective choice, with a weekly budget for rent, food, and transport around A$400–500. Melbourne, a larger city, provides more diverse employment opportunities but higher living costs (A$600–800 weekly). Consider your career plans: if you prefer a quieter lifestyle with lower expenses, Adelaide may suit you. Melbourne offers a vibrant multicultural environment and access to more automotive businesses. Both cities have well-connected public transport to campuses. Remember that the ESOS Act protects your rights as a student regardless of location.
Ready to apply? Follow the three steps above to enrol in Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Durban International College. Start your automotive career in Australia today.
View the full Durban International College Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Durban International College 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.