Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 111732G) is a Certificate III delivered by DS College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks). This hospitality course, with VET national code SIT30821, is designed to equip students with foundational skills in commercial cooking and kitchen operations. DS College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04080G) is a private provider offering this course at two locations in Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this qualification under the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Graduates often pursue careers as chefs in restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this qualification is a solid step into the hospitality industry.
This qualification falls under the field of Food and Hospitality (110101) and covers core competencies in hospitality operations. Students typically learn about preparing and presenting food, maintaining kitchen safety and hygiene, managing stock, and understanding nutrition. The course provides practical skills through simulated kitchen environments, focusing on cooking techniques, menu planning, and cost control. At AQF Level 3, it offers foundational knowledge for entry-level roles such as commis chef or cook. No specific syllabus claim is made; for a detailed curriculum, contact DS College. The skills gained are aligned with industry standards, preparing students for dynamic work environments. Australia's hospitality sector employs over 800,000 people, with strong demand for qualified cooks, particularly in Melbourne's vibrant food scene.
The course duration is 1 year 1 month (~55 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Students study full-time, typically 20-25 hours per week, with scheduled breaks included. The medium of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study components. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 55-week duration allows for comprehensive coverage of practical and theoretical modules. DS College structures the course to maximise hands-on learning, preparing graduates for immediate employment. For exact study schedules, prospective students should contact the provider.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: tuition A$14,000, non-tuition fees A$1,750, total estimated A$15,750. These costs do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$600-700 per year, nor do they include living expenses or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Living costs in Melbourne average A$500-700 per week for rent, food, and transport. Fees are set by DS College and subject to change – always confirm directly with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy provides fee information as a guide only, with no guarantee of accuracy at the time of enrolment.
General entry requirements for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery include an IELTS overall score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent) and completion of Year 10 or equivalent. No prior hospitality experience is necessary. DS College may have additional requirements, such as a minimum age (typically 18) or specific prerequisite subjects. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the English or academic criteria – refer to DS College for details. Meeting the English language requirement is essential for visa eligibility under the Student visa (Subclass 500) regime. Always verify current entry standards with the provider, as they can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may choose to seek voluntary work experience or part-time employment during their studies, subject to their visa conditions. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Paid work can help offset living costs and provide industry exposure. DS College may offer career support or connections to local hospitality businesses. For official work rights, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs. Work experience is not a required part of this qualification, but it can enhance employability.
DS College delivers this course at two campuses in Victoria: 11-17 Jeffcott Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003, and Unit 8 92-100 Champion Rd, Newport VIC 3015. West Melbourne is located near the CBD, with excellent access to public transport (trams and trains), making it convenient for students living in the city. Newport is in the western suburbs, served by train and bus networks. Both campuses are well-connected to Melbourne's hospitality precincts. Over 240 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria offer hospitality courses, giving students a wide choice. Melbourne is Australia's culinary capital, with a diverse food culture and strong job market for chefs. Living costs are manageable compared to Sydney, and the city offers a high quality of life for international students.
This CRICOS-registered course qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition assurance and complaint mechanisms. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you apply for your visa well in advance of course start dates.
Melbourne is renowned as Australia's food capital, with a thriving hospitality industry that offers ample job opportunities for cooks and chefs. The city hosts over 260,000 international students from diverse backgrounds, creating a multicultural study environment. Public transport is extensive, with trams, trains, and buses connecting campuses and suburbs. Living costs are moderate: weekly rent averages A$250-400 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80-120, and transport A$40-50. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm summers. However, the city is competitive, and part-time job availability can vary. Consider your career goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy provides detailed city guides to help you decide. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality education under Australian law.
Follow these three steps to study Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at DS College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (code 111732G). 2. Apply directly to DS College – meet entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications), prepare required documents, and submit your application before deadlines. Contact the provider for application forms and fees. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, DS College will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application, including OSHC, GTE statement, and evidence of funds. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current visa requirements.
Apply now to study Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at DS College. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and start your journey.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at DS College 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.