Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 111725F) is a Certificate III delivered by OAK LEAF EDUCATION over 1 year. This comprehensive vocational program equips international students with essential culinary skills for commercial kitchens across Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04081F), it meets stringent Australian education standards, ensuring quality training that's recognised by industry. Students gain hands-on experience in food preparation, cooking techniques, menu planning, and kitchen management, preparing them for roles such as chef or cook in restaurants, hotels, and catering services. The course includes a mandatory 10-week work placement, providing real-world experience in Melbourne's vibrant hospitality scene. OAK LEAF EDUCATION is a private provider located in Richmond, Victoria, an inner-city suburb with excellent transport links and a thriving food culture. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses nation wide, Australia offers abundant opportunities for international students. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Whether you aim to become a chef or advance in hospitality, this certificate is your first step toward a rewarding career Down Under.
This course falls under the field of Food and Hospitality (Field 1101, n.e.c.) and focuses on developing practical culinary skills combined with theoretical knowledge. Students learn safe food handling, hygiene practices, and kitchen operations compliant with Australian standards. Typical units include preparing appetisers and salads, cooking meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables, producing desserts, and managing stock and costs. The curriculum also covers menu planning, teamwork, and communication in a commercial kitchen environment. Graduates are equipped for entry-level positions in restaurants, hotels, clubs, and catering companies. The course uses the VET national code SIT30821, ensuring its content aligns with nationally recognised industry benchmarks. Students engage in both classroom theory and practical kitchen sessions, with assessments based on real-world tasks. This balanced approach ensures job readiness and a smooth transition into the Australian workforce.
The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is delivered full-time over 1 year (52 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). All instruction is in English, making it accessible to international students with the required language proficiency. This is a single qualification – it does not combine with another award as a dual qualification. The course code SIT30821 confirms its place in the national vocational education and training (VET) framework. Students typically attend classes and kitchen sessions several days per week, with additional self-study and assessment preparation. The structured timeline helps manage study alongside the work component and personal commitments. OAK LEAF EDUCATION may offer flexible scheduling; always confirm current delivery modes directly with the provider.
Indicative tuition for this course is A$12,500, with non-tuition fees amounting to A$1,850, giving an estimated total of A$14,350. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Important: additional costs are not included – you must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC, approximately A$600–800 per year), living expenses (around A$25,000 annually in Melbourne), and the student visa application fee (currently A$1,600). Always check OAK LEAF EDUCATION's official website for the most current fee schedule and any possible discounts or payment plans. HeadStart Academy does not set fees; we list them as a guide only.
International students must demonstrate English proficiency, typically an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Academic entry generally requires completion of Year 12 or its equivalent in your home country. While no prior culinary experience is a prerequisite, any relevant background may strengthen your application. OAK LEAF EDUCATION may consider applicants with work experience or foundation studies on a case-by-case basis. Since specific pathway or foundation options are not listed on the CRICOS register, we recommend contacting the provider directly to discuss your eligibility. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; OAK LEAF EDUCATION makes the final decision.
This course includes a mandatory work placement of 10 weeks, at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning component allows you to apply culinary skills in a real commercial kitchen under supervision. Placements may be in restaurants, hotels, or catering venues, giving you invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities. The placement is structured as part of the curriculum and is assessed accordingly. It’s an excellent way to build confidence, improve practical skills, and understand Australian workplace culture. OAK LEAF EDUCATION assists in arranging placements, but specific arrangements should be confirmed with the provider.
The course is delivered at 13 Elizabeth St, Richmond, Victoria – a vibrant inner-suburban location just minutes from Melbourne's central business district. Richmond is known for its bustling restaurant scene and excellent public transport, including trams and trains. It's home to a large student population, with numerous cafés, libraries, and affordable housing options. Weekly rent in Richmond averages A$250–350 for shared accommodation, with groceries and transport adding approximately A$150–200 per week. The area hosts several other CRICOS-registered providers offering cookery and hospitality courses, making it a hub for culinary studies. For those considering other areas, HeadStart Academy lists over 200 providers across Victoria offering similar qualifications.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa permits part-time work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and travel). The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee safeguards and course change procedures. Visa conditions can change; always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare OAK LEAF EDUCATION with other options. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – ensure you meet entry requirements (English test, academic records, etc.) and submit your application before deadlines. OAK LEAF EDUCATION will assess your eligibility. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Obtain OSHC and prepare your financial evidence. Once your visa is granted, you're ready to start your culinary journey in Melbourne!
Ready to take the next step? Explore Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and other courses on HeadStart Academy. Start your journey today!
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at OAK LEAF EDUCATION. 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.