Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 108643A) is a Certificate III delivered by Datum College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This nationally recognised qualification (AUR30620) is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in automotive service and repair. You'll learn to diagnose, repair, and maintain light vehicles using industry-standard tools and techniques. As a CRICOS-registered course (03979E), it meets Australian quality standards for international education. HeadStart Academy provides free, data-driven guidance to help you compare courses and providers from the official CRICOS register.
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This course falls under the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology (03-0305). You'll develop skills in servicing engines, steering and suspension systems, braking systems, electrical components, and transmission systems. Training includes workplace health and safety practices, diagnostic procedures, and customer service. While the exact curriculum is set by Datum College, graduates at Certificate III level are prepared for roles as light vehicle mechanics or technicians. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you can be confident this qualification aligns with national competency standards.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Full-time attendance is expected, with a combination of classroom theory and practical workshop sessions. This structure allows you to gain both knowledge and hands-on experience.
Tuition fees are A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,250, giving an estimated total of A$21,250. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Melbourne typically need around A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living expenses (rent, groceries, transport). Always check the latest fees on the provider's website — they are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) but does not guarantee pricing.
English proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall or equivalent. You should have completed Australian Year 10 or an overseas equivalent. No specific prior automotive knowledge is assumed, but a mechanical aptitude is helpful. Datum College may offer foundation or pathway options — contact them directly for details. All CRICOS-registered providers must have transparent entry criteria. For visa purposes, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs and gain local experience. Remember that work rights are a visa condition, not a course requirement.
Classes are held at two Victorian campuses: - 11-17 Jeffcott Street, WEST MELBOURNE VIC 3003 - Footscray Campus, FOOTSCRAY VIC Both are in Melbourne’s inner-west, with good public transport access. Melbourne is home to over 60 CRICOS-registered providers and has a large international student community. Living costs in Melbourne are about A$450–A$600 per week for accommodation, plus A$150–A$200 for groceries and transport.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Datum College, English proficiency evidence, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the visa duration. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Datum College: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to explore CRICOS-registered providers offering Certificate III courses in automotive fields in Victoria. 2. Apply: Submit your application directly to Datum College, meeting their entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents, etc.). Check application deadlines. 3. Enrol and visa: If accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online. Remember to arrange OSHC before visa lodgement.
Victoria is a top destination for international students, with over 80,000 enrolled across its institutions. Melbourne offers a vibrant culture, excellent public transport, and a strong automotive industry. Studying here gives you access to internships and part-time work opportunities. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. Consider your budget — living costs in Melbourne are higher than in regional Victoria but still competitive with Sydney. HeadStart Academy's free resources help you compare providers and plan your move.
Explore more automotive courses on HeadStart Academy or check Datum College's profile.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Datum 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.