Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109768B) is a Certificate III delivered by Central Queensland University over 1 year. This vocational qualification equips you with the practical skills and knowledge to work as a commercial cook in kitchens across Australia. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this course meets Australian education quality standards and is covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. With a strong work component of 760 hours, you'll gain hands-on experience in real hospitality settings. Whether you're starting your culinary career or upgrading existing skills, this course prepares you for roles such as chef, cook, or kitchen manager. Central Queensland University (CQU) delivers this program at multiple Queensland campuses, offering a supportive learning environment with access to industry-standard facilities. As part of HeadStart Academy's free resource, all data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS 109768B) is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3). It falls under the field of Food and Hospitality (cookery) and is designed for individuals who want to become qualified cooks in commercial kitchens. The course covers essential skills such as food preparation, cooking methods, kitchen hygiene, menu planning, and team leadership. Over 52 weeks, you'll engage in both classroom learning and practical training. With a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 38 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 760 total hours), you'll gain real-world experience in hospitality establishments. Central Queensland University is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00219C) known for its vocational and higher education programs. This course is also listed under VET national code SIT30821, ensuring consistency across Australia. All CRICOS-registered providers, including CQU, must meet strict quality standards, giving you confidence in your education investment.
This certificate level focuses on building practical cookery competencies. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include: preparing and presenting dishes in various cuisine styles, managing food safety and hygiene, controlling kitchen costs, and supervising junior staff. You'll also learn menu design, stock management, and special dietary requirements. The course combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on kitchen practice, preparing you for the real demands of the hospitality industry. As a Certificate III, it serves as a foundational qualification for roles like chef, cook, or kitchen supervisor, and can lead to further study at Certificate IV or Diploma level. Australia's cookery sector is a key part of the economy, with high demand for skilled professionals in restaurants, hotels, and catering services.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English only. This is a single qualification (no dual or embedded awards). Classes are typically delivered face-to-face at CQU campuses, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, and practical kitchen sessions. You will also need to complete the work component, which is integrated into the program. Study load is generally full-time, which aligns with student visa requirements for Subclass 500. The course is not offered online due to the practical nature of cookery training. Check with Central Queensland University for exact study schedules and term dates.
Indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at CQU is A$16,720 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. Total estimated cost is A$16,720. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. You must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (including accommodation, food, and transport), and the student visa application charge. Living costs vary by location — for example, weekly rent in Rockhampton or Mackay is typically between A$150–250, plus groceries and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Central Queensland University at www.cqu.edu.au before applying.
To enrol in this course, you must meet the minimum English proficiency requirement of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You should also have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas qualification. No prior cookery experience is necessary, but a passion for food and a willingness to work in a fast-paced environment are important. CQU may have additional requirements such as a language test or interview. If you need to meet English requirements, consider pathway programs offered by the institution. For detailed entry criteria, refer to CQU's official website. HeadStart Academy recommends you always check the latest requirements directly with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 38 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 760 hours total). This is a structured industry placement where you will apply your skills in a real commercial kitchen, such as a restaurant, café, hotel, or catering company. The placement is designed to develop your employability and meet competency requirements. It is unpaid but counts as part of your course assessment. You must arrange this placement with your provider, who will guide you on suitable host employers. The work component is a valuable opportunity to build Australian work experience and industry connections.
Central Queensland University delivers this course at three locations in Queensland: 90-92 Sydney Street, Mackay (Mackay, QLD); Canning Street, Rockhampton (ROCKHAMPTON, QLD); and CQU Rockhampton City Campus (Rockhampton, QLD). These campuses are in regional Queensland, offering a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Mackay and Rockhampton have thriving hospitality sectors, providing ample placement opportunities. Both cities have public transport networks, and CQU campuses are accessible by bus. The student population in these areas is diverse, with many international students choosing CQU for its supportive environment. Regional study can also offer longer post-study work rights for eligible graduates.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (plus a little extra). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods (subject to visa conditions). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed information. After completing this Certificate III, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. Always check current visa conditions on the Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for this CRICOS-registered course:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to find providers offering Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. Filter by state (QLD) and course level to see all options. Confirm the provider's CRICOS code (00219C for CQU) and course code (109768B). 2. Apply directly to Central Queensland University: Visit www.cqu.edu.au to review full entry requirements, submit your application, and provide evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.0-5.5 or equivalent), academic qualifications, and passport. Deadlines vary — apply at least 3–4 months before course start. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online through ImmiAccount. You'll need OSHC, evidence of funds, GTE statement, and other documents. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your culinary career? Explore all Certificate III in Commercial Cookery courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Central Queensland University.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. 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.