Are you looking to start a career in automotive electrical systems in Australia? Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology (CRICOS course code 111682A) is a nationally recognised qualification delivered by Gateway College of Technology Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03435D) over 1 year 4 months (~68 weeks). This VET course is registered on the official CRICOS register, meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international students. As a Certificate III (AQF Level 3), it provides foundational skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining electrical and electronic systems in vehicles. Studying in Melbourne, Victoria, gives you access to Australia's second-largest student city with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to give you reliable information. Remember, all listed institutions are CRICOS-registered and protected by the ESOS Act. Let's explore what this course involves, including fees, locations, and how to apply.
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This qualification sits within the field of Automotive Engineering and Technology (Field of Education 0305), specifically Automotive Electrics and Electronics (030505). Students learn to inspect, test, and repair electrical circuits, batteries, starting systems, charging systems, ignition systems, and lighting systems. The course also covers diagnostic procedures using specialised test equipment, interpreting technical data, and applying workplace health and safety practices. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, graduates typically gain skills to work as an automotive electrician or technician in the automotive servicing industry. This field is critical as modern vehicles increasingly rely on complex electronics.
Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology at Gateway College of Technology is delivered over 1 year 4 months (~68 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is required, and the course is designed for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). The 68-week duration includes both study and scheduled breaks. You can expect a mix of classroom theory and practical workshop sessions. The course is not available online; you must attend one of the two delivery locations in Melbourne.
The indicative total fee for this course is A$20,125, broken down as follows: tuition fees of A$17,500 and non-tuition fees of A$2,625. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Gateway College of Technology. Please note that fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$600–A$1,200 per year for a single student. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for a single person, including rent ($200–$300 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and public transport. Always confirm current fees with the provider via their website (www.paragon.edu.au) before applying.
Entry requirements for Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology are set by Gateway College of Technology. As a general guide for this AQF Level 3 course, international students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency, such as IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You should also have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas schooling. Prior experience in automotive or electrical work may be beneficial but not always required. Foundation or pathway options are available at some institutions — refer to Gateway College for details. Meeting the English requirement is essential for obtaining a Student visa. Remember, all entry requirements are subject to the provider's discretion and CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian quality standards.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Some courses in the Automotive Electrical Technology field may offer work placements, but Gateway College of Technology's CRICOS-registered version (111682A) has no work component listed. This means you will focus entirely on classroom and workshop training. However, as a Student visa holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs while gaining work experience in Australia.
The course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 313 North Melbourne, NORTH MELBOURNE, VIC, and Kensington, KENSINGTON, VIC. Both are in the inner-north/west of Melbourne, close to the city centre. North Melbourne is a vibrant student area with easy access to public transport (trams, trains, buses) and affordable housing options. Kensington is a nearby suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Melbourne is Australia's largest student city, hosting over 200,000 international students from 170+ countries. The city offers a high quality of life, excellent public transport, and a multicultural environment. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared room around $200–$300.
To study this course in Australia, 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 for travel. Key requirements include: 1) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion — you must demonstrate your intention to study and return home. 2) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — you must maintain health insurance for your stay. 3) Financial capacity — you need to show you can cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. HeadStart Academy recommends preparing documents such as Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), English test results, and financial evidence. Work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during study, unlimited during breaks. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Melbourne is a fantastic destination for automotive students. The city has a strong automotive industry with many dealerships, service centres, and specialised workshops. Studying at Gateway College of Technology in North Melbourne or Kensington places you near major transport links and industrial areas. Melbourne also hosts numerous other CRICOS-registered providers offering similar courses, giving you options to compare. When choosing this field, consider your passion for hands-on work, the growing demand for electric vehicle technicians, and the potential for future study (e.g., Diploma of Automotive Technology). Living in Melbourne also means you can enjoy its cultural diversity, sports events, and food scene. Whether you plan to return home after graduation or explore migration pathways, this qualification is a solid foundation. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as a student.
Applying for Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology at Gateway College of Technology is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Automotive Electrical Technology), and location (Melbourne). Compare providers and ensure they are CRICOS-registered. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution — check entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and application deadlines. Submit your application through Gateway College's website (www.paragon.edu.au) with required documents (academic transcripts, passport copy, English test results). 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once accepted, the provider issues your CoE, which is needed for the visa application. You can apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. For personalised assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides free resources but does not offer migration advice.
Ready to start your automotive career? Explore Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology at Gateway College of Technology and begin your application today. Remember to verify all details directly with the provider.
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Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Gateway College of 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.