Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109773E) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Chisholm Institute over 1 year. This VET course (national code SIT30821) specialises in Cookery within the Food and Hospitality field, preparing students for entry-level roles in commercial kitchens. Chisholm Institute (CRICOS 00881F) is a government-owned TAFE with campuses in Dandenong and Frankston, Victoria — both located in Melbourne's southeast, a region with strong hospitality demand. Indicative tuition is A$14,306, plus non-tuition fees of A$1,815, totalling A$16,121 (excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa fees). As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. This page covers course structure, entry requirements, student visa conditions, and the application process.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery belongs to the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (narrow field 1101 - Food and Hospitality, detailed field 110109 - Cookery). At AQF Level 3, this course emphasises practical skills and foundational knowledge for working in commercial kitchens. Graduates typically learn to prepare and cook a variety of dishes, manage kitchen workstations, and apply food safety principles. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the course generally covers menu planning, stock control, and team coordination. With 26,433 courses available across over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, this qualification is a common starting point for hospitality careers. Chisholm's curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, and students benefit from the institute's strong links with local hospitality businesses in Victoria.
This course is delivered full-time over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. As a single qualification, students focus entirely on Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. The course is structured to provide intensive practical training, with assessments likely involving kitchen-based tasks and theory modules. Students should be prepared for a mix of classroom learning and hands-on cooking sessions. Victoria's hospitality scene offers ample opportunities for practical experience, and the Dandenong and Frankston campuses are well-equipped with commercial-grade kitchen facilities.
Indicative fees for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Chisholm Institute, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are A$14,306 for tuition and A$1,815 for non-tuition costs, resulting in an estimated total of A$16,121. Note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–$1,000 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Melbourne (where Dandenong and Frankston are located) average around A$500–$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though actual costs vary. Additionally, the Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm the latest fees directly with Chisholm Institute at chisholm.edu.au, as the provider sets final prices and may adjust them. Australia's cost of living for international students is estimated at A$21,041 per year by the Department of Home Affairs, excluding tuition.
International applicants to Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Chisholm Institute must demonstrate English proficiency. The indicative requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent), though the exact score depends on the provider's assessment. As an AQF Level 3 course, it expects completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas qualification. No specific prior cookery experience is required, but a passion for the field is beneficial. Foundation or pathway programs are available through Chisholm if you need to strengthen your English or academic skills — check with the provider. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa. Remember, entry requirements are set by Chisholm Institute and may change; always refer to their official website for the most up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). This flexibility allows you to gain practical hospitality experience in Melbourne's vibrant food scene. While not part of the curriculum, part-time work can complement your studies by building real-world skills. Many students find employment in local cafes, restaurants, and catering businesses. Ensure you comply with your visa work conditions to avoid breaching your stay. For more details on work rights, see the Student visa (Subclass 500) page.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is delivered at two Chisholm Institute campuses in Victoria: Dandenong Campus (121 Stud Road, DANDENONG VIC) and Frankston Campus (Fletcher Road, FRANKSTON VIC). Both are located in Melbourne's southeastern suburbs, an area with a strong hospitality industry and a diverse student population. Dandenong is a major cultural and commercial hub, while Frankston offers a coastal lifestyle. Public transport connections include trains and buses to each campus, making commuting accessible. Victoria is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a significant international student community, particularly in Melbourne. The cost of living in these suburbs tends to be slightly lower than central Melbourne, with average weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–$350. Choosing between campuses depends on your personal preference for urban or coastal living.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500), which allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your entire stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As noted, work rights are limited to 48 hours per fortnight during term. Student visa holders must also abide by work and attendance requirements. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, ensuring you receive quality education. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general information only and is not a migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Chisholm Institute: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by level, field, and location. Compare courses and check provider details (CRICOS code, fees, campus). 2) Apply directly to Chisholm Institute – meet their entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications) and submit your application by the deadline. You can apply online at chisholm.edu.au. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – after acceptance, Chisholm will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa support, see the Student visa page on this site or consult a MARA agent.
Apply now at Chisholm Institute's website
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Chisholm Institute. 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.