Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109632G) is a Certificate IV delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code SIT40521, prepares students for supervisory roles in commercial kitchens, covering food preparation, menu planning, team leadership, and workplace safety. CDU is a government-owned university registered on CRICOS (provider code 00300K), ensuring international students receive quality education under ESOS protections. The course includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks (20 hrs/week), giving students practical industry experience. With campuses in Alice Springs and Palmerston, NT, Charles Darwin University offers a unique study environment in Australia's Northern Territory. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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The Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109632G) is a nationally accredited qualification at AQF Level 4, falling under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (specifically Cookery). Over 78 weeks, students develop advanced culinary skills and management capabilities needed to run kitchen operations. Charles Darwin University (CDU) delivers this course in English, with no foundation studies or dual qualification options. The total indicative tuition fee is A$17,420, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$24,000–A$30,000 per year in NT), and the visa application charge. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and we encourage students to verify current fees and details directly with CDU at www.cdu.edu.au.
This course focuses on cookery and kitchen management within the food and hospitality industry. Students learn advanced cooking techniques, menu design, cost control, and staff supervision. Typical subjects may include kitchen hygiene, food safety, nutrition, menu planning, inventory management, and workplace communication. Graduates are prepared for roles such as chef, kitchen manager, or catering supervisor. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards and includes a work component: a 5-week placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 100 total hours), providing real-world experience in a commercial kitchen setting. This work-integrated learning helps students build confidence and industry connections before graduation.
The course runs for 1 year and 6 months (78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged course) and does not include foundation studies. CDU offers full-time study with face-to-face classes at its campuses. While the CRICOS record does not specify part-time options, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. The study load typically involves around 20–25 contact hours per week, plus self-study and the work placement component.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Charles Darwin University (CDU) is A$17,420 for the entire course. No non-tuition fees are listed on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as OSHC (approx. A$600–A$1,000 per year), living expenses (rent in Alice Springs or Palmerston averages A$250–A$400 per week for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–A$150 per week, and public transport A$40–A$70 per week), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Please note that fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change without notice. Always confirm current fees directly with CDU at www.cdu.edu.au.
While specific entry requirements are set by Charles Darwin University, international students typically need: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent), completion of Year 12 or equivalent, and some prior experience in cookery or hospitality (may be demonstrated through a Certificate III qualification). A foundation or pathway program may be available for students who do not meet academic or English requirements — check with CDU. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting CDU's international admissions team for detailed prerequisites and application procedures.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 5 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 100 hours. This work-integrated learning allows students to apply kitchen management skills in a real commercial environment, such as restaurants, hotels, or catering services. Placements are arranged or supported by CDU and provide valuable Australian industry experience. International students must ensure their visa conditions (Subclass 500) allow for work placements; typically, these are considered part of the course and do not count towards the 48-hour-per-fortnight work limit.
Charles Darwin University (CDU) delivers the Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at two campuses in the Northern Territory: Alice Springs Campus (ALICE SPRINGS, NT) and Palmerston Campus (PALMERSTON, NT). Alice Springs is a remote city with a population of about 25,000 and a growing tourism and hospitality sector. Palmerston is a satellite city near Darwin, with around 36,000 residents and good public transport links to Darwin's CBD. Both campuses offer modern training kitchens and student support services. Studying in NT provides a unique cultural experience and potential networking opportunities in a region with high demand for skilled hospitality professionals. There are 5 CRICOS-registered providers in NT offering various courses to international students (source: CRICOS April 2026).
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, adequate health insurance (OSHC), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). Financial capacity requirements: you must show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC — at least A$70,000–A$80,000 total for the course duration. The Department of Home Affairs sets and updates these requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for advice.
The Northern Territory offers a distinctive study experience with a warm climate, rich Aboriginal culture, and opportunities in tourism and hospitality. Alice Springs and Palmerston are smaller cities compared to Sydney or Melbourne, meaning lower living costs but fewer entertainment options. However, the tight-knit community and direct access to industry placements can be a career advantage. Consider your tolerance for remote living and whether you prefer a quieter environment to focus on studies. The NT has 5 CRICOS-registered providers and about 1,500 international students enrolled (based on CRICOS data — exact numbers may vary). HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses across all states and providers.
Ready to start your culinary career in Australia? Research your options on HeadStart Academy, compare CRICOS-registered providers, and apply directly to Charles Darwin University (CDU) for the Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (109632G). Your journey begins with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — get started today!
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.