Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109571D) is a Certificate IV delivered by Blue Lotus Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code SIT40521, is designed for aspiring chefs and kitchen managers who want to take the next step in their culinary career. At HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au), we provide this page as a free resource to help international students understand the course details, costs, and visa requirements. Blue Lotus Academy is a CRICOS-registered provider (03790G) based in Melbourne, Victoria, offering this course at multiple locations across the city. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of them. Whether you're looking to work in Australia's vibrant hospitality industry or return home with advanced kitchen management skills, this course provides a solid foundation.
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This course falls under the field of education 110109 - Cookery, within the broader discipline of Food and Hospitality. At the Certificate IV level, students typically develop advanced cooking techniques, menu planning, kitchen leadership, and food safety management skills. While specific subjects vary by provider, graduates often gain competencies in managing kitchen operations, supervising staff, controlling food costs, and creating innovative dishes. This level of study is designed for those who have already completed a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or have equivalent experience. It prepares learners for supervisory roles in commercial kitchens, such as chef de partie or kitchen supervisor. The course combines practical kitchen sessions with theoretical management units, ensuring a well-rounded skill set.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and is not a foundation studies program. Students are expected to attend on-campus classes at Blue Lotus Academy's locations. The course may involve a combination of face-to-face teaching, practical kitchen sessions, and self-directed study. Check with the provider for exact study schedules, including any part-time options or class timings.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows:
Please note: These are indicative fees only and are set by Blue Lotus Academy Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included in the above are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a student living in Melbourne, weekly costs can range broadly: rent A$250–A$400, groceries A$70–A$100, and public transport A$30–A$50 per week (concession rates available for students). We recommend visiting the provider's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
As a general guide, international applicants for this Certificate IV level course are expected to have:
If you do not meet the English requirement, some providers offer pathway options like English language courses. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but you may be able to enrol in a packaged offer with a foundation program if available. Always check with the provider for detailed entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks of work placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) component is designed to give you real-world experience in a commercial kitchen environment. It may take the form of an internship, industry placement, or vocational placement, often arranged by the provider. This practical experience is invaluable for building your resume, networking, and applying the skills learned in class. It may also lead to employment opportunities after graduation. Note that work placements are unpaid and you will need to ensure your student visa allows for this work component.
Blue Lotus Academy delivers this course at three locations in Victoria:
1. BLC Melbourne CBD - Level 2, 158 Swanston St, MELBOURNE VIC 3000 2. BLC Nicholson Street, CARLTON NORTH VIC 3054 3. Level 2, 540 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
All three locations are in the Melbourne metropolitan area, one of Australia's most multicultural and student-friendly cities. Melbourne is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The campuses are well-served by public transport, with trams and trains connecting to the CBD and suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are generally higher than the national average, but the city offers a vibrant food scene, making it an ideal place to study cookery.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include:
Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Dependants may also have work rights. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult a MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Blue Lotus Academy Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use our site headstartacademy.com.au or the official CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) to find providers offering this course. Filter by course level, field (Cookery), and city (Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy) and submit an application to Blue Lotus Academy. Check entry requirements and application deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Do not finalise travel or enrolment until your visa is granted.
Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your tuition fees are protected and you have access to student support services.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more courses in Food, Hospitality and Personal Services on HeadStart Academy, or visit the official CRICOS register to verify provider details.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Blue Lotus Academy 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.