Certificate III in Business (CRICOS course code 106721H) is a Certificate III delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This VET qualification (BSB30120) is designed for individuals who want to develop foundational business skills for roles such as administrative assistant, customer service officer, or data entry operator. It is offered across multiple locations in New South Wales and South Australia, giving students flexibility in choosing a study destination. As a CRICOS-registered course on the official register (April 2026), international students can be assured of its quality and compliance with Australian education standards. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, unbiased information to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
Certificate III in Business (CRICOS course code 106721H) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited (CRICOS 00172B). The course falls under the field of education 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically Office Studies (080999). It provides foundational knowledge in business operations, communication, and administration. The course does not include a mandatory work component, making it suitable for students who prefer a purely academic pathway. It is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program) and is taught entirely in English. The indicative tuition fee is A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$350, totaling A$15,350. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change — always confirm with the provider.
This Certificate III in Business covers essential skills for working in a business environment. While specific units are determined by the provider, typical areas include using business technology, organising workplace information, producing simple word processed documents, engaging with customers, and working effectively with others. Graduates gain competencies in basic financial tasks, communication protocols, and office procedures. The course is aligned with the BSB30120 national training package, ensuring it meets industry standards. For international students, this qualification can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level business courses or entry-level employment in Australia.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The study mode is on-campus at various locations. Students should note that the 78-week duration includes scheduled breaks and may be delivered over a number of terms. Language of instruction is English, and students must demonstrate proficiency to meet entry requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Business at Mercury Colleges is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$350 (e.g., enrollment, materials). The estimated total is A$15,350. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, visa application charges, or travel expenses. For the most current fees, please visit the provider's website at www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au. All fees are set by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited and are subject to change. International students should also budget for weekly living costs: in Sydney, expect A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport; in Adelaide, A$400–600 per week. OSHC costs approximately A$600–800 per year for single cover.
For admission to Certificate III in Business, international students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent English test). Prior academic qualifications: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent (for this AQF Level 3 course). No foundation studies are required, but students with lower English levels may consider pathway options — consult the provider for details. Mercury Colleges may require evidence of previous study or work experience. Always check with the institution for specific entry criteria, as they set their own requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship component. However, students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work is not part of the course but can provide valuable experience.
Certificate III in Business is delivered at multiple campuses of Mercury Colleges: in Sydney (Level 5 and Levels 1 & 2, 245–247 Castlereagh Street; also Level 7, 245-247 Castlereagh St), in Hurstville (Lvl 1, 12 Butler Road), and in Adelaide (Suite 1, Lvl 4, 68 Grenfell St). Sydney has a large international student community with excellent public transport; Hurstville is a southern suburb with a vibrant Asian community. Adelaide offers a more affordable lifestyle with a growing student population. All locations are well-served by trains and buses. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, choosing a campus location depends on your preferences for city size, climate, and living costs.
To study Certificate III in Business at Mercury Colleges, international students must obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student as per 2024 rates), and OSHC. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, unlimited during breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and support. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use filters to find courses matching your level and city. Mercury Colleges is registered with CRICOS code 00172B. 2. Apply directly to Mercury Colleges: Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results) and meet entry requirements. Check application deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500). Once you have a CoE, lodge your visa application online. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Sydney (NSW) is Australia's largest city with a diverse economy and over 200 CRICOS providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs are higher: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$300–500. Adelaide (SA) is smaller and more affordable, with weekly rent around A$200–350. Both cities have strong public transport to campus locations. Mercury Colleges has campuses in both. Consider your budget, climate preferences, and career goals. Business graduates in both cities find entry-level roles in administration, customer service, and retail.
Ready to apply? Explore Mercury Colleges' website or contact them directly. For more information on student visas, visit our Student Visa guide.
Certificate III in Business is a CRICOS-registered programme at Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited. 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.