Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (CRICOS course code 111778D) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification, classified under the field of Land, Parks and Wildlife Management, equips students with practical skills for careers in environmental conservation, land management, and ecosystem restoration. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolments. TAFE SA is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00092B) with a strong reputation for vocational education. Located in South Australia, the course offers hands-on training at the Urrbrae Campus in Netherby, Adelaide. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses in Australia, international students have many options, but this course stands out for its focus on conservation in a region known for its diverse ecosystems. From national parks to coastal environments, South Australia provides a living classroom. Whether you're aiming to work as a park ranger, conservation officer, or land manager, this course builds foundational knowledge. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no referral fees, just accurate information to help you make informed decisions.
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Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (CRICOS 111778D) is a one-year, full-time qualification offered by TAFE SA. It is a Certificate III level course (AQF Level 3) under the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies (05), specifically Land, Parks and Wildlife Management (050901). The course does not include a work component or lead to a dual qualification. All instruction is in English. The VET national code is AHC31421. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is only available to international students at approved providers. TAFE SA is a government institution, which means quality assurance under the ESOS Act. The course prepares students for roles in conservation and land management, focusing on practical skills like weed control, fire management, and ecosystem monitoring. Graduates may pursue further studies or enter the workforce.
This qualification covers a broad range of conservation and land management topics. Students learn to work in natural resource management, conservation reserves, and commercial land management. Typical units include plant identification, soil conservation, pest management, and restoration techniques. The course emphasises sustainability and environmental stewardship. While specific syllabi are set by TAFE SA, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets national standards. Graduates at this level can perform tasks independently with supervision and may have career opportunities in parks and wildlife services, environmental organisations, or local government.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. The language of instruction is English. Study is full-time, likely with a mix of classroom, field trips, and practical assessments. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$12,095 for the full course, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$12,095. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Students should confirm current fees directly with TAFE SA at tafesa.edu.au/international. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For Adelaide, indicative living expenses are around A$1,800–2,200 per month for rent, food, and transport.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some prior experience in conservation or land management may be beneficial but not required. There is no foundation study component in this course. For specific entry requirements, consult TAFE SA directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at TAFE SA's Urrbrae Campus in Netherby, a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia. Netherby is about 5 km south of Adelaide's city centre, accessible by public transport. Adelaide has a student population of over 60,000 across multiple universities and colleges, with around 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses. The city is known for its affordability compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with lower rent and living costs. The campus is close to natural reserves, offering practical learning opportunities.
International students on this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and attendance. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. They must also maintain valid OSHC. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies — students must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity requirements must be met. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
South Australia offers unique opportunities for conservation students due to its diverse environments — from the Adelaide Hills to the Flinders Ranges and coastal habitats. Adelaide has over 30 metropolitan beaches and numerous national parks. The cost of living is lower than in eastern capitals; average weekly rent for a shared apartment is around $200–300. Public transport is reliable with a student concession. However, job opportunities in conservation can be competitive. Consider the location of the Urrbrae Campus, which is well-connected but may require travel for field trips. The course's 1-year duration allows for quick entry into the workforce or further study. Always verify provider CRICOS status, as only registered providers can enrol international students.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management at TAFE SA:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level and location. Ensure TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) is listed for this course. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Contact TAFE SA for application forms, entry requirements (including English tests), and deadlines. Submit required documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, TAFE SA issues a CoE. Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Explore this course on the TAFE SA website for the latest fees and entry details.
Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.