If you're considering a career in laboratory technology in Australia, the Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (CRICOS course code 112031F) offered by Department of Training and Workforce Development is a key entry-level qualification. This page provides comprehensive information about this VET course, including fees, delivery locations, entry requirements, and student visa details, to help you make an informed decision. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is registered on CRICOS (provider 00020G), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for overseas students. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that compiles data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you explore your options. Whether you are a prospective international student or a migrant planning to study in Australia, this page will guide you through the essentials of enrolling in this qualification in Western Australia.
Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (CRICOS course code 112031F) is a Certificate III delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is classified under Natural and Physical Sciences (Field 01), specifically Laboratory Technology (019909), and sits at AQF Level 3. It is designed to provide foundational skills for working in laboratory settings, including safety procedures, sample preparation, data recording, and equipment handling. The course is fully CRICOS-registered, meaning it can be studied by international students holding a Student visa. Department of Training and Workforce Development is a government provider (CRICOS 00020G) and operates through TAFE colleges in Western Australia, including North Metropolitan TAFE and South Metropolitan TAFE. This VET national code is MSL30122, and the course is offered in English with no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
The Certificate III in Laboratory Skills equips graduates with the skills needed to perform routine laboratory tasks under supervision. Students learn about workplace health and safety, quality assurance, sample collection and handling, basic microbiological and chemical techniques, and data analysis. The field of education (Natural and Physical Sciences) ensures a strong foundation in scientific principles, while the specific focus on Laboratory Technology prepares students for roles such as laboratory assistant, technician, or specimen collector in industries like pathology, environmental monitoring, food processing, and research. The course includes both theoretical and practical components, often delivered in campus laboratories. Graduates may also use this qualification as a stepping stone to higher-level VET courses or diploma programs in laboratory technology.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is typically offered on a full-time basis with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the designated campus locations. The duration may vary slightly depending on the provider's academic calendar, but the CRICOS-registered duration is 26 weeks. If you require a shorter or longer study period, consider other courses at different levels or institutions. The study load is structured to meet the requirements for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), which mandates at least 20 hours of study per week.
Fees for Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (112031F) are set by Department of Training and Workforce Development and are indicative only. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), the indicative tuition fee is A$6,570, with non-tuition fees of A$762, giving an estimated total of A$7,332. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For accurate and current fees, always visit the provider's official website at http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/. Living costs in Perth (Western Australia) are approximately A$21,000–A$25,000 per year for a single student, covering rent, groceries, transport, and other essentials. As a guide, weekly rent in Perth ranges from A$200 to A$350, groceries around A$80–A$120, and public transport about A$40–A$60. These are estimates and vary by lifestyle.
Entry requirements for international students typically include an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) and completion of Year 10 or equivalent in your home country. Some providers may require prior study in science subjects. As this is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3), it is considered a lower-level vocational qualification, so foundation or pathway programs are not normally required. However, if you do not meet the English or academic prerequisites, the provider may offer English language courses or bridging programs. Always confirm exact requirements directly with Department of Training and Workforce Development at http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements – we provide general guidance based on typical CRICOS course standards.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students will focus on classroom and laboratory-based learning. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable practical experience and help offset living costs, but it is not part of the course curriculum.
Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (112031F) is delivered at two campuses in Western Australia: North Metropolitan TAFE, East Perth Campus in East Perth, and South Metropolitan TAFE, Murdoch Campus in Murdoch. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of VET and higher education courses. The city has a moderate cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with good public transport links including trains and buses to both campuses. East Perth Campus is close to the city centre, while Murdoch Campus is in the southern suburbs. Students can expect a vibrant student community with many international student support services available.
International students studying this course will need 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 your stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while courses are in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All CRICOS-registered courses are subject to the ESOS Act, providing legal protections including the Tuition Protection Service (TPS). For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful natural landscapes, and a growing economy. Perth, as the main study destination, has a diverse student population and a relatively low cost of living compared to eastern states. If you enjoy outdoor activities, a sunny climate, and a balance between urban and nature, WA may be an excellent choice. However, consider that Perth is geographically isolated from other major cities, which may affect travel plans. The state has a strong focus on mining, resources, and agriculture, which can influence job opportunities for laboratory technicians. Research the local job market for laboratory skills before enrolling. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses across different states to find the best fit.
Applying for Certificate III in Laboratory Skills at Department of Training and Workforce Development involves three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by field, level, and location. Compare this course with others in Laboratory Technology across Western Australia.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit the Department of Training and Workforce Development website at http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/. Check the specific entry requirements, prepare your documents (including English test results and academic transcripts), and submit your application before the deadline.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE, which you need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence ready. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only – always follow official instructions from the provider and immigration authorities.
Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy or visit the provider's website to start your application today.
View the full Department of Training and Workforce Development profile →
Certificate III in Laboratory Skills is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.