Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109810E) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust over 1 year. This vocational qualification (AQF Level 3) is designed for international students seeking foundational skills in professional cookery, including food preparation, kitchen operations, and menu planning. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03024A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. With an integrated work component of 150 hours, graduates gain practical experience in real hospitality environments. Whether you aim to work in restaurants, hotels, or catering, this course provides the essential training to launch your culinary career in Australia.
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This course falls under the field of Food and Hospitality, specifically in Cookery (ANZSCO 351411). Students develop competencies in kitchen operations, food safety, menu development, and team coordination. Typical learning outcomes include: preparing and cooking various dishes according to industry standards, managing stock control, maintaining hygiene and safety, and working effectively in a commercial kitchen. The curriculum aligns with the national VET framework (SIT30821) and focuses on practical skills assessed through simulated and real workplace environments. Graduates may pursue roles as chefs, cooks, or catering supervisors, or pathway into higher-level qualifications such as Diploma of Hospitality Management.
The course is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) on a full-time basis. Language of instruction is English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The CRICOS registration confirms the duration and ensures the course meets student visa requirements. Students should expect a mix of classroom theory, kitchen practicals, and off-site work placement. Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd tailors the schedule to accommodate international students, with classes typically held at their city or North Melbourne campuses.
Tuition fees are A$15,600, with non-tuition fees (materials, resources, etc.) of A$2,250, totalling an estimated A$17,850. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by the provider. They are subject to change — always confirm directly with Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd at www.mcie.edu.au for the most current costs. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student in Melbourne), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600).
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. No prior cookery experience is required, but a passion for food and teamwork is beneficial. MCIE may also accept alternative English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) or evidence of prior study in English. For specific entry criteria, foundation/pathway options, or recognition of prior learning (RPL), contact the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 15 hours per week (~150 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves industry placement in a commercial kitchen, such as a restaurant, hotel, or catering facility. It allows students to apply their skills in a real workplace, build industry networks, and gain Australian hospitality experience. Placements are arranged by MCIE and are subject to visa work conditions: student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks.
The course is delivered at two campuses in Melbourne, Victoria: Level 8 Collins Street (CBD) and Peel Street, North Melbourne. Both locations are well-served by public transport — trams, trains, and buses connect students to the city and suburbs. Melbourne is home to over 400 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant hospitality scene, making it an ideal city to study commercial cookery. Living costs in Melbourne average A$450–550 per week for rent, with groceries and transport adding A$150–200 per week.
This course is eligible for the Student visa (Subclass 500). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the 'registered course' requirement for visa application. Students must satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, maintain OSHC for the visa duration, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Always check current visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website and consider consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to compare similar courses in cookery across different institutions and locations. Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered (MCIE is 03024A) and the course code 109810E matches your interest.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications) and submit your application through MCIE's admissions process. Deadlines vary — apply at least 3 months before the intake.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once MCIE issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Melbourne is Australia's culinary capital, with a thriving food scene and hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and hotels. Studying commercial cookery here gives you access to diverse cuisines and potential employers. With over 400 CRICOS-registered providers, the city offers a wide range of hospitality courses. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, and public transport is excellent. Consider your budget for rent (approx. A$450–550/week), food (A$70–100/week), and transport (A$30–50/week). Plus, the city's multicultural environment enhances your learning experience.
Ready to start your culinary journey? Use HeadStart Academy to explore other CRICOS-registered cookery courses, then apply directly to Melbourne City Institute of Education. Download our free student checklist for more guidance.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne City Institute of Education Pty Ltd, as trustee for MCIE Unit Trust. 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.