Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 110703J) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian Academy of Business and Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students seeking to develop foundational skills in commercial cookery, including food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen operations, and hygiene standards. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as commis chef or cook in restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses across Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (110703J), it meets the standards for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The course is delivered at the provider's Melbourne campus, giving students access to one of Australia's most vibrant culinary scenes. With a work component included, students gain practical experience alongside theoretical learning. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, duration, and how to apply, all sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
This course falls under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically Food and Hospitality (Cookery). At AQF Level 3, students learn to apply a broad range of cookery skills to prepare dishes using various cooking methods, manage kitchen operations, and maintain food safety standards. Typically, graduates can demonstrate competence in menu planning, stock control, and working as part of a kitchen team. While exact syllabus details are set by the provider, the CRICOS listing indicates a focus on practical skills aligned with industry needs. The qualification code SIT30821 is nationally recognised, meaning it is consistent with Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) standards. Students should expect a mix of classroom-based theory and hands-on kitchen sessions, with assessments including practical demonstrations, written tests, and projects.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The full-time structure typically involves approximately 20-25 hours of scheduled study per week, including both theory and practical components. This duration aligns with standard VET course lengths for international students, allowing sufficient time to achieve competency. Students should be prepared for a structured timetable with regular attendance requirements. As a CRICOS-registered course, it must meet the ESOS Act standards for course duration and contact hours. The provider may offer flexible scheduling, but the official duration is fixed as per registration.
Indicative fees for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Australian Academy of Business and Technology are set from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition A$20,000, non-tuition fees A$2,300 (including materials, uniforms, and administration), with an estimated total of A$22,300. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne (including rent, groceries, and transport) are estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month, but vary by lifestyle. For the most current fees, always check the provider's official website. Fees are indicative only and subject to change by the institution.
General entry requirements for this course include an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent English language test). Applicants must have completed Australian Year 11 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling. Prior qualifications expected at this level may include completion of a Certificate II in Cookery or relevant industry experience, but exact prerequisites are determined by the provider. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but the provider may offer alternative pathways for students who do not meet entry requirements. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa (Subclass 500). Always confirm specific entry criteria directly with the institution, as they may require additional evidence (e.g., work experience, academic transcripts).
This course includes a compulsory work component: 10 weeks, 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning is a structured industry placement or internship, designed to give students real-world experience in commercial kitchens. Placements are typically arranged by the provider and may take place in partner restaurants, hotels, or catering companies. The work component is integral to the course and must be completed to graduate. It provides valuable exposure to Australian workplace culture and helps students build professional networks. For international students, work placements are considered part of the course and do not require a separate work visa. However, all work must comply with student visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks).
The course is delivered at Level 3, 382 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC. This location places students in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, within walking distance of public transport (Flinders Street Station, tram stops), shopping, and dining. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering food and hospitality courses, making it a hub for culinary education. The city has a large international student population (over 200,000), with a vibrant multicultural food scene. Living costs in Melbourne are generally lower than Sydney but above the national average. The campus is accessible by train, tram, and bus, and nearby accommodation options include purpose-built student housing, shared rentals, and homestays. Students benefit from Melbourne's reputation as Australia's food capital, with numerous opportunities for part-time work in hospitality.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, English language proficiency (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during scheduled study periods and unlimited hours during recognised breaks. Dependants accompanying the student may have work restrictions. OSHC must be maintained for the duration of the visa. The course is CRICOS-registered (110703J) which satisfies the enrolled course requirement for the visa. After completing this Certificate III, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia, subject to meeting post-study work criteria. Note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is straightforward:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify that Australian Academy of Business and Technology (CRICOS 03734D) is registered to deliver this course. Check course details, fees, and location.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the provider's website to submit an application. You'll need to meet entry requirements (e.g., English test scores, academic transcripts) and provide supporting documents. Application deadlines vary, so plan ahead.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, OSHC, and prove financial capacity. Processing times vary, so apply early.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you navigate the process. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students.
Ready to start your journey? Learn more about applying to Australian Academy of Business and Technology for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Academy of Business and Technology 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.