Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109816K) is a Certificate III delivered by Acumen Education Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course sits within the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (field 11) and specialises in Cookery (field 110109). It is designed to equip international students with foundational commercial cooking skills, kitchen operations knowledge, and food safety practices needed to work in restaurants, hotels, and catering venues across Australia. Acumen Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03090B) is a private provider with multiple campuses in Victoria, including locations in Collingwood, Richmond, and Melbourne's CBD. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this qualification on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and enjoy the protections of the ESOS Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many pathways into the thriving hospitality sector. Whether you dream of becoming a chef or pursuing further studies in cookery, this certificate provides the essential first step.
This qualification focuses on building practical skills in commercial cookery, including food preparation, cooking methods, kitchen hygiene, menu planning, and teamwork. Graduates typically learn to work independently and as part of a kitchen brigade, managing time and resources efficiently. The course covers food safety and sanitation, nutrition, cost control, and communication within a hospitality environment. It aligns with the national training package SIT30821 and prepares students for roles such as commis chef, cook, or kitchen hand. While specific subjects vary by provider, the core competencies ensure students can safely and professionally produce a range of dishes in commercial kitchens. Study at this level (Certificate III) generally requires prior completion of Year 10 or equivalent, and may lead to further qualifications like Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or Diploma of Hospitality Management.
According to the CRICOS register, Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Acumen Education Pty Ltd is scheduled for 52 weeks (1 year). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course—it does not combine with other certificates or diplomas. There is no foundation studies component. Students attend classes on campus, with practical training in commercial kitchens. The course is designed for full-time study, typical of CRICOS-registered programs that meet student visa requirements.
Tuition fees for this course are set by Acumen Education Pty Ltd. The CRICOS register lists indicative tuition at A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$0, making the estimated total course fee A$16,000. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check the provider's official website at www.acumen.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approximately A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (A$21,041 per year for a single student, as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the Subclass 500 visa application fee (currently A$1,600).
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements. A typical guide is IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). For Certificate III level, students are generally expected to have completed Year 10 or equivalent previous study. Acumen Education may have specific entry criteria, including a minimum age requirement (usually 18 years). If you do not meet the English requirement, some providers offer pathway programs or foundation studies (though not applicable for this specific course). Refer to Acumen Education's website for their exact prerequisites. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of the student visa process.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain practical experience in hospitality while studying. Any work must not compromise your attendance or course progress.
Acumen Education Pty Ltd delivers this course at four campuses in Victoria: 157 Islington St, Collingwood VIC 3066; 24-26 Elizabeth Street, Richmond VIC; Acumen Education Pty Ltd, Richmond VIC; and Level 8/55 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC. All sites are in the greater Melbourne area, which has a large international student population and excellent public transport. Melbourne is home to many CRICOS-registered providers offering hospitality courses, and the city's vibrant food scene offers plenty of opportunities for culinary students. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–$300, plus groceries and transport.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). All international students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. You must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Course fees shown are indicative; actual costs may vary. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is widely considered Australia's culinary capital, with a thriving restaurant scene, diverse food culture, and numerous career opportunities for trained cooks. Studying at Acumen Education's campuses in Collingwood, Richmond, or the Melbourne CBD places you close to many hospitality venues, markets, and industry networks. The Victorian hospitality sector is a major employer, and qualified cooks are in demand. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Melbourne offers many options for commercial cookery courses. When choosing a provider, always verify CRICOS registration on the official register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) to ensure you are enrolling in a course that meets student visa requirements.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Acumen Education Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Food & Hospitality), and location (Victoria). Compare providers like Acumen Education, check their CRICOS registration (03090B), and review course details. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Acumen Education's website (www.acumen.edu.au) for application forms, entry requirements, and English test submission. Submit your academic transcripts and English test results. Deadlines vary, so check directly. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Acumen Education will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Start your culinary journey in Melbourne — check Acumen Education's current fees and intake dates on their official website, or explore more Certificate III courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Acumen Education 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.