Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109718A) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is designed for aspiring kitchen managers and covers advanced cookery, kitchen operations, menu planning, and supervisory skills. It sits within the Food, Hospitality and Personal Services field (Cookery specialisation) and is nationally recognised under the VET national code SIT40521. Sydney Metro College is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03427D) offering this course across multiple locations in Melbourne and Sydney. International students benefit from a structured program that includes a work component of 10 weeks industry placement, providing real-world experience. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act and can access Australian student visa pathways (Subclass 500). This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and delivery locations to help you make an informed choice.
The Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is an AQF Level 4 qualification that prepares students for supervisory and management roles in commercial kitchens. The field of education is Food and Hospitality, with a focus on Cookery (110109). Graduates typically learn advanced cooking techniques, food safety and hygiene management, menu design, cost control, team leadership, and kitchen administration. While the exact syllabus is set by Sydney Metro College, common units include managing kitchen operations, planning and costing menus, leading and managing people, and ensuring food safety programs. This level is ideal for those who already have some cookery experience and wish to step into a managerial role. Practical skills are developed through hands-on training and a compulsory work component.
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 (no dual or combined qualification). Full-time study is expected, with a combination of classroom learning, simulated kitchen environments, and industry placement. The 78-week period includes both teaching weeks and scheduled breaks. Students should plan for a minimum of 20 hours per week of structured study, plus additional self-study and assignment work.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: tuition fee A$27,000, non-tuition fee A$1,750 (covering materials, uniforms, etc.), and estimated total A$28,750. Please note that these fees are indicative only and set by the institution — always confirm directly with Sydney Metro College at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au for current fees. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne or Sydney range from A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year, including rent, food, and transport. For personalised fee information and payment plans, contact the college.
Entry requirements for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management are determined by Sydney Metro College. As a general guide, international students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected include a Certificate III in Cookery or significant relevant experience. Some students may enter directly with appropriate industry experience. Foundation or pathway options are available — refer to the provider for details. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, with 25 hours per week (approximately 250 total hours). This is an industry placement designed to give students hands-on experience in a real commercial kitchen. Work-integrated learning helps develop practical skills in kitchen management, teamwork, and customer service. Placements are arranged by Sydney Metro College in partnership with hospitality businesses in Melbourne and Sydney. Students should be prepared for shift work including evenings and weekends.
Sydney Metro College delivers this course at four locations: Melbourne campus (Melbourne, VIC), Petersham Training Centre (Petersham, NSW), SMC Melbourne Campus (Melbourne, VIC), and Sydney Metro College Surry Hills (Surry Hills, NSW). Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's two largest cities with vibrant hospitality industries. Melbourne's food scene is world-renowned, offering diverse culinary opportunities. Sydney's CBD and inner suburbs like Surry Hills and Petersham provide easy access to restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses. Both cities have excellent public transport, with campuses near train stations and bus routes. Living costs in these cities are approximately A$450–A$600 per week for rent, A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$40–A$60 for transport.
International students studying this course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). After completing this course, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet the requirements. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Sydney Metro College:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register to verify Sydney Metro College's registration (03427D) and confirm the course (109718A) is available for international students. Compare course content, fees, and locations.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application to Sydney Metro College with required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5 or equivalent), passport copy, and any relevant experience certificates. Check application deadlines and intake dates.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, the college will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online. Prepare evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Ready to start your culinary career? Contact Sydney Metro College or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metro 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.