Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 111726E) is a Certificate IV delivered by OAK LEAF EDUCATION over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code SIT40521, is designed for aspiring kitchen managers who want to take the next step in their hospitality career. Students learn advanced culinary techniques, kitchen operations, team leadership, and cost management. The course includes a work component of 10 weeks (200 hours), providing real-world experience in professional kitchens. Delivered at 13 Elizabeth St. Richmond, Victoria, this program combines classroom learning with practical training in a vibrant culinary hub. OAK LEAF EDUCATION is a CRICOS-registered provider (04081F) and this course is listed on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring quality standards for international students.
This course falls under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically Food and Hospitality (1101). At the Certificate IV level (AQF Level 4), students develop a broad range of skilled and technical knowledge in kitchen management. Typical learning outcomes include menu planning, food safety supervision, financial management, staff supervision, and managing kitchen operations. Graduates are prepared for roles such as chef, kitchen manager, or sous chef in restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses. The curriculum blends theory with practical assessments, ensuring graduates meet industry standards. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider must meet ESOS Act protections, including adherence to quality frameworks and student welfare provisions. This ensures that international students receive an education that aligns with Australian vocational education standards.
The program runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English, making it accessible to international students with appropriate English proficiency. The course is a single qualification—no dual qualification or foundation studies are included. Study modes typically include face-to-face classes at the Richmond campus, complemented by the mandatory work component. Students should be prepared for full-time study commitment, as most CRICOS courses require a minimum of 20 hours per week of scheduled classes and study. The duration aligns with student visa requirements (Subclass 500), which generally require courses to be completed within the specified timeframe.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,550, with non-tuition fees of A$1,850, bringing the estimated total to A$19,400. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by OAK LEAF EDUCATION. They are subject to change—always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For living costs in Richmond (Melbourne area), students should budget approximately A$400–500 per week for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–100 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. These are indicative and may vary. The course offers value for a kitchen management pathway, especially given the included work placement.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall for this level of study. Equivalent English language tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) may also be accepted. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For Certificate IV, prior experience in a commercial kitchen is often recommended. Some providers may require completion of a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery or similar. OAK LEAF EDUCATION may also consider mature age entry or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course, but the provider may offer alternative entry arrangements. Always check with the institution for the most up-to-date requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice—consult a registered MARA agent for visa eligibility.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, totaling approximately 200 hours at 20 hours per week. This is a work-integrated learning element, such as an industry placement or internship in a commercial kitchen. It provides invaluable hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their skills in real hospitality settings. The work component is a structured part of the curriculum and must be completed to satisfy course requirements. It may take place during scheduled breaks or alongside study, subject to provider arrangements. CRICOS-registered providers must ensure placements meet regulatory standards. For international students, work hours during term are limited (48 hours per fortnight) but this placement is part of the course, so different rules may apply—students should confirm with their provider and visa conditions.
This course is delivered at 13 Elizabeth St. Richmond, Victoria (Richmond, VIC 3121). Richmond is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its food scene and easy access to public transport (trains, trams, buses). The area is home to many hospitality businesses, providing excellent networking opportunities. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population (over 150,000). The city offers diverse cultural experiences and relatively affordable living compared to Sydney. Living costs in Melbourne are around A$450–550 per week for rent, with lower costs in shared accommodation. The campus location is close to the CBD, making it convenient for students to explore part-time work opportunities. OAK LEAF EDUCATION's Richmond campus is easily accessible via Swan Street or Church Street tram lines.
International students enrolling in this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study at a CRICOS-registered institution and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited work during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from OAK LEAF EDUCATION, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The course duration of 78 weeks means your visa will typically cover the study period plus a buffer. For detailed advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent—HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent. ESOS Act protections apply to this course, ensuring your rights as an international student in Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at OAK LEAF EDUCATION:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (OAK LEAF EDUCATION is code 04081F). Compare course details, fees, and delivery locations.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (English language score, prior qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application via OAK LEAF EDUCATION's website. Prepare necessary documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and any evidence of work experience.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC coverage and demonstrate financial capacity. For visa assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Melbourne is one of Australia's premier study destinations, with a rich multicultural food scene—ideal for a kitchen management student. The city boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, and Melbourne alone has hundreds of hospitality courses. Living costs are moderate: weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–350, groceries A$80–120, transport A$40–50. Public transport is extensive, with the Richmond campus well-connected. The city's thriving restaurant industry offers ample part-time work opportunities. However, consider that Melbourne's weather is variable, and competition for jobs can be high. International students appreciate the city's cultural diversity and student support services. Before committing, research accommodation options and student safety. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you decide—but remember, this is not migration advice.
Ready to start your culinary career? Contact OAK LEAF EDUCATION or explore more CRICOS courses on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management 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.