Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109644C) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is designed for aspiring chefs and kitchen managers, providing advanced culinary skills and supervisory knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered qualification (AQF Level 4), it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, a government provider (CRICOS 01985A), delivers this course at its Mildura campus in Victoria. With a strong focus on practical kitchen management and a work component of 240 hours, graduates are prepared for roles such as chef, sous chef, or kitchen manager in Australia's vibrant hospitality sector. The course fees are indicative at A$24,570, and students should budget for OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges separately.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109644C) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 4 and falls under the field of education 'Food, Hospitality and Personal Services' (Field 11), specifically within 'Food and Hospitality' (1101) and 'Cookery' (110109). The course code SIT40521 is the national VET identifier. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is a government-owned TAFE institution with a strong reputation for vocational training in regional Victoria. The Mildura campus serves as the primary delivery location, offering students a unique study experience in a growing regional city known for its agricultural and tourism industries. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act.
This course covers advanced cookery techniques, menu planning, kitchen management, food safety, and team leadership. Students learn to manage kitchen operations, control costs, and create innovative dishes. The curriculum emphasises practical skills in food preparation, presentation, and service, as well as supervisory skills such as rostering, training staff, and maintaining quality standards. Graduates are equipped to work in restaurants, hotels, clubs, and catering companies. The course also includes a significant work-integrated learning component, allowing students to apply their skills in real hospitality environments. While the specific syllabus is set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, typical learning outcomes align with the national competency standards for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Instruction is delivered in English. Students should be prepared for a full-time study load, typically involving a combination of classroom theory, practical kitchen sessions, and the work component. The 78-week period includes scheduled breaks. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$24,570 for the entire course, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, resulting in an estimated total of A$24,570. These fees are set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees directly with the provider at www.sunitafe.edu.au. Note that fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover), living costs (estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student according to Department of Home Affairs guidelines), or the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Students should budget accordingly for the full duration of their stay.
International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent) for entry into this course. Applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Prior experience in the hospitality industry may be beneficial but is not always mandatory. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE may also consider pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements, such as foundation programs or English language courses. It is essential to check the specific entry requirements with the provider before applying. For students needing to improve their English, the institute may offer ELICOS programs. Always verify with the provider for the most up-to-date requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 60 weeks at 4 hours per week, totalling approximately 240 hours. This work-integrated learning is designed to give students practical experience in a real hospitality workplace, such as a commercial kitchen or restaurant. The placement allows students to apply their skills, build industry networks, and gain confidence in a professional setting. The nature of the placement (e.g., unpaid industry placement or internship) is determined by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. Students should clarify the specific arrangements with the provider. This hands-on experience is invaluable for future employment and meeting competency requirements.
The course is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura, located in MILDURA, VIC. Mildura is a major regional city in northwestern Victoria, known for its sunny climate, agricultural production (citrus, grapes, almonds), and tourism along the Murray River. The city has a population of around 56,000 and a growing hospitality scene. Mildura offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around A$250–A$350. Students can access public transport via bus services, and the campus is conveniently located near the city centre. For students seeking a regional Australian experience with strong industry connections, Mildura is an attractive option.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment, meeting course progress requirements, and holding valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy provides general visa guidance but recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Choosing to study in Mildura offers a unique lifestyle away from big-city distractions. The region's strong agricultural and tourism sectors provide ample hospitality job opportunities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Mildura's Sunraysia Institute of TAFE stands out for its industry connections and supportive learning environment. Consider factors like climate (hot summers, mild winters), community size, and access to cultural activities. If you prefer a tight-knit community and hands-on training in a regional setting, Mildura is an excellent choice. For those seeking more urban excitement, Melbourne is a short flight away.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm the course (109644C) and provider (01985A). Compare with other cookery courses in Victoria. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Sunraysia Institute of TAFE's website (www.sunitafe.edu.au) or contact their international admissions office. Submit required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy) and meet entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your culinary career? Visit Sunraysia Institute of TAFE's website for the latest fees, intake dates, and application details.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. 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.