Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109815M) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (SIT30821) equips international students with the practical skills and knowledge required for a career in commercial cookery. The course covers food preparation, kitchen operations, safety, and teamwork in a commercial kitchen environment. Delivered in Melbourne and Thornbury, Victoria, this course is ideal for those seeking entry-level roles in restaurants, hotels, cafes, and catering businesses. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 03082B), international students are protected under the ESOS Act and can use this qualification towards a student visa (Subclass 500).
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109815M) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian College of Trade Pty Ltd over 1 year. The qualification is listed under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 3 and is classified under the field of education 110109 - Cookery. It provides foundational skills in food preparation, cooking methods, kitchen safety, hygiene, and menu planning. Graduates can pursue roles such as commis chef, cook, or kitchen hand in diverse hospitality settings. Australian College of Trade is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03082B) with multiple campuses in Victoria. All courses offered by CRICOS-registered providers meet national standards and are monitored by the Australian Government.
The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery focuses on practical cookery skills and kitchen management. Students learn to prepare a variety of dishes, manage food costs, maintain kitchen operations, and comply with health and safety regulations. Typical units cover areas such as food preparation, cookery methods, stock control, menu development, teamwork, and customer service. While the specific syllabus is set by Australian College of Trade, graduates of this level are expected to demonstrate competence in preparing food for commercial kitchens, understanding nutrition, and working effectively in a team. The course also includes workplace communication and professionalism skills essential for the hospitality industry.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study component). Students attend classes at the provider's campuses in Melbourne and Thornbury. The full-time study load requires approximately 20-25 hours per week, including classroom-based learning and practical kitchen sessions. Attendance and assessment are structured to meet the requirements of the student visa Subclass 500.
Tuition: A$12,000. Non-tuition fees: A$1,350 (includes materials, administration, etc.). Estimated total: A$13,350. These are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees with Australian College of Trade before applying. You can visit their website for the latest fee schedule.
For Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. Some prior knowledge or experience in hospitality may be beneficial but not mandatory. There are no foundation studies or pathway options indicated for this course at this provider. Meeting the English language requirement is essential for receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and applying for a student visa. Always check with Australian College of Trade for current entry criteria, as requirements may change.
No work component. 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 term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). Part-time work in related fields may be available to supplement learning and income, but it is not a formal part of the course.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is delivered at three locations: (1) ACOT Bourke Street – Level 4, 380 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne CBD); (2) ACOT Melbourne CBD – Suite 1, Lvl 9, 190 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000; (3) Lvls 1 & 2, 851-859 High Street, Thornbury VIC 3071. All campuses are in Victoria, with two in central Melbourne and one in Thornbury (a northern suburb). Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and has a vibrant hospitality scene. Thornbury is well-connected by public transport, including trains and trams from the city.
To study Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Australian College of Trade, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and health insurance. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing this qualification, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa (Subclass 485) if you study at least two years at this level or higher. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. Always confirm current visa requirements with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Australian College of Trade:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's search tool to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Food & Hospitality), and location (Victoria). Compare providers and check their CRICOS registration on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements (IELTS 5.0-5.5, academic qualifications) and submit your application to Australian College of Trade. Application deadlines vary, so contact the provider early. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a student visa online via ImmiAccount. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a diverse population of over 5 million. It is a major hub for international students, with more than 200,000 enrolled across its universities and colleges. The city offers a thriving food and hospitality industry, making it ideal for cookery students. Living costs: rent (shared) A$200–$350 per week, groceries A$100–$200, transport A$50–$80 (with student concession). Public transport includes trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne also hosts numerous food festivals and markets, providing real-world learning opportunities. The Victorian hospitality sector accounts for over 100,000 jobs, so graduates have strong employment prospects. Consider also the climate (temperate, four seasons) and cultural diversity when choosing Melbourne for your studies.
The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a hands-on qualification that prepares you for fast-paced kitchen environments. Before enrolling, consider: your passion for cooking (it requires stamina and precision), physical demands (long hours standing, heat), and career goals (becoming a chef, catering manager, or food entrepreneur). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, so compare options. This course does not include a work placement, but you can gain experience through part-time work. Ensure you understand the English requirement (IELTS 5.0-5.5) and budget for total costs including living expenses. The ESOS Act ensures your tuition is protected—always check provider registration.
Ready to start your cookery career? Use HeadStart Academy's free search to compare similar courses and apply directly to Australian College of Trade.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Trade 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.