Certificate III in Animal Care Services (CRICOS course code 110615J) is a Certificate III delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work in animal care environments such as shelters, kennels, catteries, veterinary clinics, and pet stores. Graduates will gain practical skills in animal handling, health monitoring, and basic veterinary support. As a CRICOS-registered course (00020G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The course is offered at three campuses across Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE in Geraldton, and South Metropolitan TAFE at Bentley and Murdoch campuses in Perth. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available in Australia, this program is part of a robust vocational education system. Whether you're planning to study in a regional city like Geraldton or in the vibrant capital Perth, this course provides a pathway into the growing animal care industry.
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Certificate III in Animal Care Services (CRICOS course code 110615J) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification in the field of Veterinary Studies (Field of Education 061199). Delivered by the Government-operated Department of Training and Workforce Development through its TAFE International network, this course provides foundational skills for working with animals. The program covers animal behaviour, nutrition, health care, and workplace safety. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00020G), international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The course is suitable for those who wish to enter the animal care industry or progress to higher-level studies in veterinary nursing or animal science. With a duration of 52 weeks, it offers a comprehensive introduction to animal care practices.
This Certificate III program focuses on veterinary studies and animal care. Students learn to handle and restrain animals safely, monitor their health and well-being, provide basic first aid, maintain clean and hygienic environments, and communicate effectively with clients. The curriculum covers species-specific care for companion animals such as dogs, cats, and small mammals. Practical skills are developed through simulated workplace tasks and, where available, industry placement. Graduates are prepared for roles like animal attendant, kennel hand, pet shop assistant, or veterinary clinic support worker. The course also provides a pathway to Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing or other higher qualifications in the animal science field.
The course is scheduled over 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. Instruction takes place in face-to-face classroom and practical settings at the chosen campus. Students should expect a combination of theory and hands-on training. The standard study load is typically 20-25 hours per week, with additional self-study and assignment work. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is essential for success. As a CRICOS-registered course, the duration is set to meet student visa requirements.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$13,140, with non-tuition fees of A$1,557, giving an estimated total of A$14,697. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Department of Training and Workforce Development. Please note that fees are subject to change, and you should always confirm with the provider directly. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. For indicative living costs, Perth averages around A$400-600 per week for rent, while Geraldton may be lower. International students should budget for at least A$21,041 per year in living costs according to Department of Home Affairs guidelines. For the most current fee information, visit the provider's website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/.
Entry requirements for this Certificate III course typically include: completion of Year 10 or equivalent, and an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent, such as TOEFL or PTE). Prior qualifications at this level are generally not required, but any relevant experience may be beneficial. Some campuses may have additional requirements such as a Working with Children Check or a police clearance, especially if work placements are involved. We recommend checking with the specific campus for detailed prerequisites. If you do not meet the English requirements, pathway programs such as ELICOS may be available. Always consult the provider for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, some campuses may offer optional industry placements or work experience opportunities to enhance learning. Check with your chosen campus for details. Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs and gain Australian work experience in the animal care field.
The course is delivered at three campuses in Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus in Geraldton (regional city, ~40,000 people), South Metropolitan TAFE, Bentley Campus and South Metropolitan TAFE, Murdoch Campus, both in the Perth metropolitan area. Perth is the capital city with a population of over 2 million and offers diverse student life with many transport options. Geraldton provides a regional lifestyle with lower living costs. Both locations are accessible via public transport and have support services for international students. Each campus has state-of-the-art facilities for animal care training.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to remain in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time. Conditions include: maintaining enrolment, attending classes, and achieving satisfactory course progress. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity evidence is required to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow this 3-step process to apply for Certificate III in Animal Care Services at Department of Training and Workforce Development:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the HeadStart Academy site to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Animal Care), and city (Geraldton or Perth). Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (00020G) and ensure the course code 110615J meets your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, passport copy, and English proficiency evidence. Submit your application through the TAFE International WA website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Then apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs, providing OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Await visa grant before travelling.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above and start your journey in animal care. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent.
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Certificate III in Animal Care Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.