Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 114504F) is a Certificate IV delivered by Strathfield College Pty Ltd over 1 year 9 months (~92 weeks). This qualification is designed for aspiring chefs and kitchen managers who want to develop advanced culinary skills and supervisory capabilities. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this course ensures international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. Whether you plan to work in fine dining restaurants, hotels, or run your own catering business, this program provides the practical and theoretical foundation needed for a successful career in the Australian hospitality industry. Strathfield College, a private CRICOS-registered provider (02736K), offers this course at two campuses: Melbourne (VIC) and Surry Hills (NSW). As a HeadStart Academy resource, all data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about your study abroad journey.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 114504F) is a Certificate IV (AQF Level 4) qualification in the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically in Cookery (110109). Strathfield College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02736K) delivers this program over a duration of 92 weeks (1 year 9 months). The course is taught in English and does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies. The VET national code is SIT40521, confirming alignment with national training standards. This qualification prepares students for roles as a chef, kitchen manager, or catering supervisor, combining hands-on cookery skills with management principles such as menu planning, cost control, and team leadership. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of the many options available to international students seeking high-quality vocational education.
This course covers the essential competencies required for kitchen management in the Australian hospitality sector. Under the field of Food and Hospitality, students learn advanced cookery techniques, food safety and hygiene, menu development, and supervisory skills. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to prepare dishes for various dietary needs, manage inventory and budgeting, and lead a kitchen team. While the specific syllabus is determined by Strathfield College, students can expect a blend of practical kitchen sessions and theoretical classes covering topics such as nutrition, sustainability, and workplace communication. Graduates are equipped to work in a range of commercial kitchens, from restaurants to hotels and event catering. The course also emphasizes compliance with Australian workplace health and safety standards, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
The Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Strathfield College is scheduled over 92 weeks (1 year 9 months) as recorded in the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual awards). Students will attend classes at either the Melbourne or Surry Hills campus. The course is structured to include both face-to-face training and practical kitchen sessions. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The duration allows for deep immersion in both culinary techniques and management principles, ensuring graduates meet industry expectations. For accurate schedule details, including term dates and holidays, prospective students should consult Strathfield College directly.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$22,000, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$2,500, bringing the total estimated cost to A$24,500. Please note these are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. The tuition fee covers course delivery, assessment, and access to college facilities. Non-tuition fees may include application fees, materials, and student services. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$450–A$600 per week depending on location), and the student visa application charge (currently AUD $1,600 for Subclass 500). Always check Strathfield College's official website (www.strathfieldcollege.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you budget, but we recommend confirming costs directly with the provider.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, typically an IELTS score between 5.0 and 5.5 overall (or equivalent). The specific entry requirements are determined by Strathfield College. Generally, for a Certificate IV level, applicants should have completed Year 11 or equivalent, and may need to show prior experience or qualifications in cookery or hospitality. Some providers may offer pathway options, such as a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, to bridge into this qualification. Since this is not a foundation studies program, students should meet the academic and English standards directly. Always refer to the provider's website for precise entry criteria. If you need assistance meeting requirements, consider contacting the college's admissions team or a registered education agent.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, with 20 hours per week (approximately 240 total hours). This work-integrated learning is designed to provide real industry experience in a commercial kitchen setting. Students will undertake an industry placement, internship, or similar arrangement, allowing them to apply classroom skills in a real workplace environment. The work component is an integral part of the qualification, helping students develop professional networks and gain confidence. It also enhances employment prospects upon graduation. Please note that work hours are structured and supervised; you should confirm the exact nature of the placement with Strathfield College.
Strathfield College delivers this course at two campuses: Level 8, 108 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne (VIC) and Suite 2, Lvl 2, 136 Chalmers Street, Surry Hills (NSW). Melbourne is a vibrant city with a thriving food scene, home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers. The Melbourne campus is centrally located, with easy access to public transport (trains, trams, buses). Surry Hills is a creative hub in Sydney, close to restaurants and cafes. Both locations offer a multicultural environment ideal for international students. Melbourne's indicative living costs are around A$500 per week (rent, groceries, transport), while Sydney is slightly higher at about A$600 per week. These figures are approximate and should be used as a guide. Choosing a campus in either city gives you access to Australia's diverse hospitality industry.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of your course. Student work rights currently permit 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, though conditions may change. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Financial capacity evidence is required, showing you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Applying for the Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Strathfield College involves three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. 2) Apply directly to Strathfield College – meet entry requirements (English test, academic documents) and submit your application before deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the college will issue a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Ensure you have all documents, including proof of financial capacity and OSHC. Start early to allow processing time. For personalized guidance, contact the college's international office.
Before choosing this course, consider your career goals in the Australian hospitality industry. Certificate IV level is ideal for those with some experience seeking management roles. Compare with Certificate III if you are starting from scratch. Also, think about location: Melbourne and Sydney are both expensive but offer excellent job prospects. Research typical salaries for kitchen managers (around AUD $55,000–$70,000 annually) and weigh against course costs. Check if the provider offers job placement assistance. HeadStart Academy provides free tools to explore all options – no referral fees, just data from the CRICOS register.
Ready to start your culinary career? Explore CRICOS-registered providers and compare courses on HeadStart Academy today.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Strathfield 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.