Looking for a practical automotive trade qualification in Australia? Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 113769M) is a Certificate III delivered by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~62 weeks). This course is designed for international students who want to become qualified light vehicle mechanics. Studied in Hoppers Crossing, Victoria, it provides hands-on training in automotive engineering and technology. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 04123A, Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd), international students can study on a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course covers diagnostic, repair, and maintenance skills for light vehicles. With an indicative total fee of A$19,000 (tuition A$18,000 plus non-tuition A$1,000), it offers a pathway to a skilled career in Australia. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) provides this guide using data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, referencing Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses.
This course falls under the field of education 0305 - Automotive Engineering and Technology, focusing on the repair, service, and diagnosis of light vehicles. Students develop practical skills in engine systems, transmission, steering, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and air conditioning. Training typically includes workplace health and safety, using diagnostic equipment, and interpreting technical manuals. Graduates are prepared for roles as automotive technicians or mechanics in workshops and dealerships. Please note that the specific syllabus may vary by provider; contact Austin Institute of Trades for the exact curriculum.
The course runs for 1 year 2 months (~62 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies) and does not include a mandatory work component. The course is delivered face-to-face at the automotive workshop in Hoppers Crossing. Full-time study is expected, consistent with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees are set at A$18,000 by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, giving an estimated total of A$19,000. These figures are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider on their website. Living costs in Victoria vary: indicative weekly rent in Hoppers Crossing is around A$200–$300, groceries A$80–$100, and public transport A$50–$70.
While specific prerequisites are set by Austin Institute of Trades, typical entry for a Certificate III level requires the equivalent of an Australian Year 10 or 11 completion. For international students, an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) is generally expected. No foundation or pathway programs are listed for this course; contact the provider for details. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at the automotive workshop located at 105 Elm Park Dr, Hoppers Crossing VIC 3029. Hoppers Crossing is a suburb of Melbourne in Victoria's west, approximately 25 km from the CBD. The area has good public transport access via train and bus services. Victoria is home to over 60 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses, providing a vibrant study environment.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, and having sufficient funds for fees, living costs, and travel. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight while studying. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to start your application for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers.** Use HeadStart Academy's provider directory to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure your chosen provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. **Apply directly to Austin Institute of Trades.** Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application and supporting documents through the provider's admissions process. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500).** Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Austin Institute of Trades directly for the latest fees and application deadlines.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Austin Institute of Trades 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.