Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 108179J) is a Certificate III delivered by Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd over 1 year. This vocational qualification equips students with the technical skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles, preparing them for careers as automotive technicians or mechanics. Based at the Collingwood Campus in Melbourne, Victoria, the course combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03969G), Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd ensures international students receive quality education under Australian standards. The course covers automotive engineering and technology (field 0305), focusing on vehicle mechanics (subfield 030503). With an indicative tuition fee of A$15,500 and total estimated costs of A$19,500, this program offers a practical pathway into Australia's automotive industry. Students benefit from studying in Victoria, a state with a strong automotive sector and numerous employment opportunities. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 108179J) is a Certificate III delivered by Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to enter the automotive trade, focusing on light vehicles such as cars and small vans. Graduates gain skills in servicing engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, and air conditioning. The qualification aligns with the national VET code AUR30620 and is recognised across Australia. Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03969G) with a campus in Collingwood, a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne. The course is taught in English, with an indicative IELTS entry requirement of 5.0-5.5. Students will undertake theoretical learning and practical workshops, preparing them for roles as automotive technicians. This course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may work part-time under student visa conditions. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is a trusted option for international students interested in automotive careers.
This course falls under the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology (0305), specifically Vehicle Mechanics (030503). Students learn to inspect, diagnose, and repair light vehicle engines, driveline, steering, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and climate control. The curriculum covers fault finding, using diagnostic equipment, welding, and workplace health and safety practices. While the exact syllabus is set by Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd, typical Certificate III programs in this field also include customer service skills, repair order interpretation, and teamwork. Graduates are prepared for roles such as light vehicle mechanic, automotive technician, or service adviser. The qualification is at AQF Level 3, meaning students develop a broad range of skilled applications. This practical, hands-on training is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and working with technology.
The course duration is 1 year, or 52 weeks according to the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time on campus at the Collingwood Campus. Instruction is in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The course is a single qualification at Certificate III level. Students are expected to attend classes and workshops regularly. As a full-time course, it meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The structured timetable allows students to balance study with part-time work, adhering to visa conditions. This duration is standard for Certificate III qualifications in Australia, providing intensive training to prepare students for entry-level roles.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd is A$15,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$4,000, bringing the estimated total to A$19,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs such as accommodation, food, and transport. The visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500) is also separate. For current fee information, always check the provider's website directly. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$1,500–$2,500 per month depending on lifestyle. Students should budget accordingly. HeadStart Academy provides this as a guide only.
International students are generally required to demonstrate English language proficiency. For this course, the indicative IELTS requirement is 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL iBT 35–45 or PTE 36–42). Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent in their home country, as Certificate III typically follows completion of Year 10 or a Certificate II. Some providers may require prerequisite knowledge or skills. For specific entry requirements, refer to Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd's admissions team. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet academic or English criteria. Note: HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements; always confirm with the provider.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. While the course itself does not provide a work placement, students may seek part-time employment in automotive-related fields to gain experience. ESOS Act protections ensure that students receive the education they paid for, and any work undertaken must not interfere with course attendance.
This course is delivered at the Collingwood Campus in COLLINGWOOD, VIC. Collingwood is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, close to the city centre. Melbourne has a large international student population, with over 200,000 students and numerous public transport options including trams and trains. The campus is likely accessible via public transport. Victoria is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse study environment. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around A$200–$300. Students enjoy a vibrant cultural scene and strong job market.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress, having valid OSHC, and adhering to work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). Applicants must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents if applicable. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections ensure international students receive refunds or course transfers if providers fail to deliver.
Victoria has a strong automotive industry, with a rich history of car manufacturing and a growing demand for skilled mechanics. Melbourne, the state capital, offers numerous workshops, dealerships, and service centres. Studying at Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd in Collingwood places you in a central location with access to industry connections. The state has a high concentration of CRICOS-registered providers, giving students many options. When choosing a location, consider proximity to part-time work opportunities, transport links, and lifestyle preferences. Victoria's climate is temperate, with distinct seasons. For automotive students, hands-on training in a lively city can enhance learning and career prospects.
Follow these three steps to enrol: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Automotive Engineering), and location (Victoria). Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (code 108179J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and submit an application to Polytechnic Victoria Pty Ltd. Include academic transcripts, English test results, and a valid passport. Application deadlines vary; contact the provider directly. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC and finances. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not process applications.
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Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Polytechnic Victoria 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.