Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109865A) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne City College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification, with VET national code SIT30821, is designed for international students seeking foundational skills in commercial cookery. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03592B), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Melbourne City College delivers this program at two locations in Victoria: West Footscray and Melbourne CBD. Students benefit from a structured curriculum covering food preparation, kitchen operations, and workplace safety. The course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (200 hours) to gain real industry experience. With an indicative total fee of A$17,400, this course offers a cost-effective pathway into Australia's thriving hospitality sector. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trust.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 109865A) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne City College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered under AQF Level 3 and falls within the field of Food and Hospitality (110109 - Cookery). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03592B, Private), it is approved for international students studying in Australia. The course is taught in English and leads to a single qualification (no dual awards). With a work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (~200 total hours), students gain practical experience in real hospitality settings. Melbourne City College is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. Choosing a CRICOS-registered course ensures you are protected by the ESOS Act, which guarantees your rights as an international student.
This Certificate III in Commercial Cookery prepares graduates for entry-level roles in commercial kitchens. The curriculum covers essential cookery skills, including food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen hygiene, and menu planning. Students learn to work effectively in a team, manage time and resources, and comply with workplace safety standards. The course also introduces hospitality industry regulations and sustainable practices. While the specific syllabus is set by Melbourne City College, typical outcomes include the ability to prepare a range of dishes, operate kitchen equipment, and assist in managing food costs. This field of education (Food, Hospitality and Personal Services) is popular in Australia, particularly in cities like Melbourne where the hospitality sector employs thousands. Graduates may progress to Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or diploma-level studies.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual qualification option. Students should expect a full-time study load, typically including both classroom learning and practical kitchen sessions. Melbourne City College delivers this course face-to-face at its two Victoria campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The standard study week may include up to 20 hours of classes plus additional study time. Australia's education system offers flexibility, but this course is designed for those committed to a focused year of training.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Melbourne City College are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Tuition is A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,400 (covering materials, administration, and student services). The estimated total is A$17,400. These fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm with Melbourne City College directly via their website www.melbournecitycollege.edu.au. Living costs in Melbourne average A$500-700 per week for rent, food, and transport, but this varies by lifestyle. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for at least 12 months of living expenses before applying.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 10 or equivalent, as this is a Certificate III level course. No prerequisite study in cookery is required, but a strong interest in hospitality is beneficial. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment or interview. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — contact Melbourne City College for details. All entry requirements are set by the provider and subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not assess applications; consult the provider directly. Remember, meeting the English requirement is crucial for visa eligibility.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) is typically an industry placement in a commercial kitchen, such as a restaurant, hotel, or catering company. It provides hands-on experience in a real work environment, allowing students to apply their skills, build professional networks, and enhance employability. Placements are arranged by the college, but students must complete all required hours to graduate. Work placements are unpaid and covered by the provider's insurance. International students on a Student visa can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, but the placement hours are separate from this entitlement.
Melbourne City College delivers this course at two locations in Victoria: 79 Sunshine Rd West Footscray, West Footscray VIC, and Level 9, 120 Spencer St, Melbourne VIC. Both campuses are well-served by public transport. West Footscray is a residential suburb close to the city, while the Melbourne CBD campus is in the heart of the city, near Southern Cross Station. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant hospitality scene, home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and hotels. International students studying here benefit from a multicultural environment and strong job opportunities in the food industry. Victoria has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly higher than regional areas but generally lower than Sydney.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). With this visa, you can study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain genuine student status and comply with visa conditions, including satisfactory course attendance and progress. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. Financial capacity requirements include proof of funds for tuition, living expenses (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers using HeadStart Academy's directory. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Food and Hospitality), and location (Victoria) to find Melbourne City College. Compare courses and check entry requirements. 2) Apply directly to Melbourne City College via their website (www.melbournecitycollege.edu.au) or through an education agent. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and passport. Submit your application before the intake deadline. 3) Upon acceptance, you will receive a Letter of Offer and then a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
Melbourne is often called Australia's culinary capital, with a thriving restaurant scene and a high demand for skilled chefs. The city is home to over 50,000 international students from diverse backgrounds, creating a supportive community. Public transport is extensive, making commuting to campuses easy. Living costs average A$500-700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. While Melbourne offers many opportunities, consider the competitive job market and city living costs. Regional areas may offer lower expenses but fewer hospitality venues. This course at Melbourne City College provides a solid foundation, but career progression may require further study or experience. Always research the local job market and pathway options. For more information on studying in Victoria, visit our state page.
Ready to start your culinary journey in Melbourne? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Melbourne City College.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne City College 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.