Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109770H) is a Certificate III delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 49 weeks (~11 months). This course equips students with the skills to become qualified commercial cooks, covering kitchen operations, food preparation, and menu planning. Delivered in English across six NSW campuses—including Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Kingscliff, Kingswood, and Mount Druitt—it is ideal for international students seeking hands-on training in Australia's hospitality sector. With an indicative tuition fee of A$20,400 and no mandatory work component, this CRICOS-registered course (provider 00591E) offers a pathway to employment in restaurants, hotels, and catering. HeadStart Academy provides this guide as a free resource, using official CRICOS data as at April 2026. Always confirm fees and entry requirements directly with the provider before applying.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109770H) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification in the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically Cookery (Field 110109). Delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission (TAFE NSW), a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00591E), this 49-week program prepares students for roles as commercial cooks. The course covers essential cookery techniques, kitchen safety, food hygiene, and menu costing. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student education. TAFE NSW is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses. This qualification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework and carries the VET national code SIT30821.
While specific syllabi vary by provider, Certificate III in Commercial Cookery typically develops practical skills in food preparation, cooking methods, kitchen management, and teamwork. Students learn to prepare appetisers, entrees, mains, and desserts, as well as manage kitchen stock, follow food safety plans, and work effectively in a commercial environment. The course balances hands-on kitchen sessions with theoretical knowledge of nutrition, cost control, and workplace communication. Graduates may pursue roles such as chef, cook, or kitchen supervisor in restaurants, cafés, hotels, and other hospitality venues. This course does not include a dual qualification or foundation studies component. For exact units, refer to TAFE NSW's official course documentation.
The course runs for 49 weeks (~11 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no concurrent diploma). Full-time study is expected, with a typical commitment of 20–25 hours per week including practical classes. Students should allow additional time for self-study and assessment preparation. TAFE NSW may offer flexible timetables; check with the campus for session schedules. This duration is standard for Certificate III level programs in Australia.
Indicative tuition fee: A$20,400 for the entire course, with no additional non-tuition fees from the provider (A$0). The estimated total is A$20,400. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for annual living expenses (approximately A$21,041 for a single student, as per Department of Home Affairs) plus OSHC (around A$500–A$700 per year). Always confirm current fees directly with TAFE NSW at their international website. ESOS Act protections ensure your fees are safeguarded.
For international students, TAFE NSW typically requires an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for Certificate III level. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas qualification. No prior cookery experience is necessary, but a passion for food and teamwork is beneficial. Foundation studies are not included; however, TAFE NSW may offer pathway programs for students who need English language support. Always check specific entry requirements with the provider, as they may change. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission—TAFE NSW assesses each application individually.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. Gaining part-time hospitality work can complement your studies, but it is not required for course completion. For details, consult the Department of Home Affairs.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is delivered at six TAFE NSW campuses across New South Wales: Campbelltown (South Western Sydney), Coffs Harbour (Mid North Coast), Newcastle West (Hamilton campus), Kingscliff (Northern Rivers), Kingswood (Western Sydney), and Mount Druitt (Western Sydney). Each campus offers modern kitchen facilities and experienced trainers. New South Wales is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, with Sydney alone hosting thousands of international students. Living costs vary: Sydney's weekly rent is around A$300–$500, while regional centres like Coffs Harbour or Newcastle are more affordable. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Consider your preferred lifestyle and budget when choosing a location.
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain health insurance. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for your visa application.
New South Wales offers a vibrant study environment with diverse cities and regional centres. Sydney is Australia's largest city, with a high cost of living but excellent job opportunities in hospitality. Regional areas like Coffs Harbour and Newcastle provide a lower cost of living and a relaxed lifestyle. Over 1,500 CRICOS-providers operate in Australia, with NSW hosting many top institutions. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals. TAFE NSW campuses are well-connected, and public transport is available. For local insights, explore our NSW study guide.
Follow these three steps to enrol: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (109770H) across different institutions and locations. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to TAFE NSW with required documents (e.g., academic transcripts, English test scores). Check application deadlines and entry requirements 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, which is needed for your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.