Are you considering a career in commercial cookery in Australia? Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109775C) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) course delivered by Focal Holdings Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01497F), a private provider based in New South Wales. This program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge required for entry-level positions in the hospitality industry, such as a qualified cook or chef. Over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks), you'll learn food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen management, and safety protocols. The course includes a substantial work component of 25 weeks (20 hours per week), giving you real-world experience in a commercial kitchen. Focal Holdings delivers this course at its Bankstown campus, located in Sydney's southwestern suburbs. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, and graduates can apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) pathway. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the course fees, entry requirements, duration, and how to apply. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (as at April 2026) and is intended as a guide only.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109775C) is a Certificate III delivered by Focal Holdings Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This VET qualification (AQF Level 3) falls under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (specifically Cookery). The course is designed to develop skills in food preparation, cooking methods, kitchen operations, and workplace safety, preparing graduates for roles such as commercial cook or chef in restaurants, hotels, and catering establishments. Focal Holdings is a CRICOS-registered provider (01497F) with a private institution status, ensuring the course meets Australian Government standards for international students. The indicative tuition fee is A$17,600, with no non-tuition fees, making an estimated total of A$17,600. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies, and instruction is in English. The course also includes a mandatory work component of 500 hours (25 weeks at 20 hrs/week). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring their rights and tuition fee security. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; always confirm details with the provider.
The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery covers the essential skills and knowledge required to work as a professional cook in the hospitality industry. Students develop competencies in preparing and presenting a wide variety of dishes, including appetisers, main courses, desserts, and bakery items. The curriculum typically includes units on food safety and hygiene, kitchen equipment operation, stock control, menu planning, and cost management. Additionally, students learn about nutrition, dietary requirements, and cultural influences on cuisine. The course emphasises practical, hands-on training in simulated or real kitchen environments, building speed, precision, and teamwork. Classroom theory complements practical sessions, covering topics such as food science, hospitality law, and sustainability practices. Graduates of this level are expected to work under limited supervision and may supervise junior staff. The course aligns with national competency standards for the hospitality sector.
The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is scheduled over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as registered on the CRICOS database. This duration includes both classroom learning and the integrated work component. The language of instruction is English, and students must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency for admission. This is a single qualification – it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. Students should expect a full-time study load, with attendance requirement at the Bankstown campus. The work placement (25 weeks, 20 hrs/week) is interwoven into the program, providing real industry experience. International students should note that the duration may affect visa conditions, such as work rights and course progress requirements. It is essential to maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress to comply with Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,600, with non-tuition fees set at A$0, giving an estimated total of A$17,600. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are for the entire duration. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the Visa Application Charge (VAC). OSHC is mandatory for international students – costs vary by provider and coverage period. Living costs in Sydney are high: indicative weekly rent for a room is around A$350–$600, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$60. Visa application fees are set by the Department of Home Affairs (currently A$1,714 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with Focal Holdings Pty Ltd at their website: www.tibc.nsw.edu.au. Fees are subject to change, and HeadStart Academy does not guarantee their accuracy beyond the CRICOS register snapshot.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency at an IELTS overall band score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL iBT 35–46, PTE 36–42). Some providers may accept alternative tests or previous study in English. Academic entry expectations generally include completion of Year 10 or equivalent, as Certificate III is a vocational level below a diploma. There may be no specific pre-requisite subjects, but prior experience in hospitality can be beneficial. Focal Holdings may also require a brief interview or practical assessment. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, pathway options such as a Certificate II or foundation program might be available – contact the provider for details. Remember, meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee a place; the provider makes the final decision. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 25 weeks, at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 500 hours. This is a form of work-integrated learning (WIL), typically involving an industry placement in a commercial kitchen, such as a restaurant, hotel, café, or catering venue. The placement allows students to apply classroom skills in a real work environment, develop professional networks, and gain references for future employment. It may be scheduled during term breaks or integrated into the study timetable. Work placements are unpaid, but students gain invaluable practical experience. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can undertake this placement as part of their course – it does not count towards the usual 48-hour per fortnight work limitation during term time. Ensure your visa condition 8104 or 8105 is understood; work as a course requirement is exempt. The provider will assist with arranging placements, but students may also find their own.
This course is delivered at 44 Raymond Street, Bankstown NSW 2200 – a campus in South Western Sydney. Bankstown is a vibrant multicultural suburb with easy access to Sydney's city centre via train (approximately 40 minutes) and bus services. The area has a large international student population and offers affordable accommodation compared to the city centre. As of April 2026, there are over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, with many in New South Wales. Sydney itself hosts over 200 providers, making it a popular study destination. Living costs in Bankstown are moderate: share house rent averages A$200–$350 per week. The campus is near shops, restaurants, and public transport. When choosing a location, consider commute times, part-time work opportunities, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy provides this location information to help you make an informed decision.
New South Wales, particularly the Sydney region, offers diverse study and lifestyle opportunities. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a strong economy, vibrant food scene, and many hospitality job opportunities. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks, giving flexibility to earn while studying. However, the cost of living in Sydney is higher than other Australian cities. Typical weekly expenses for a student: rent A$250–$500, groceries A$80–$150, transport A$40–$60, and other costs A$50–$100. Part-time work in hospitality can offset some costs. The state has excellent public transport, but consider travel time to campus. Bankstown is a well-connected hub with multicultural communities, making it easy to find familiar foods and support networks. If you prefer a quieter lifestyle, regional NSW campuses may be an option. Ultimately, your choice should align with your budget, career goals, and personal preferences.
To study this course in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work part-time in Australia while completing your course. Current work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. Visa application charges apply. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or visiting the Department of Home Affairs website for personalised advice. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student.
Follow these steps to apply for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Focal Holdings Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that Focal Holdings Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01497F) is registered to deliver this course. Check that the course code 109775C matches your intended qualification level and field. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the provider's website at www.tibc.nsw.edu.au to find application forms, deadlines, and required documents – including academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 5.0–5.5), passport copy, and personal statement. Submit your application and pay any applicable application fee. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application online via the Department of Home Affairs. You will need OSHC, evidence of funds, and a genuine temporary entrant statement. Processing times vary – apply early. HeadStart Academy provides this guidance only; always refer to official sources.
Ready to start your culinary journey? Follow the application steps above or visit Focal Holdings' website for direct enrolment.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Focal Holdings 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.