Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (CRICOS course code 114609H) is a Certificate III delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 20 weeks. This AQF Level 3 qualification is designed for international students who want to build foundational skills in textile making, garment construction, and fashion production. As a CRICOS-registered course on the official register (April 2026), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. TAFE NSW, the provider (CRICOS 00591E), is a government-owned institution with over 130 years of vocational education experience. The course is offered at two Sydney campuses: Lidcombe and Ultimo. Students will learn in well-equipped workshops and gain practical skills for entry-level roles in the fashion and textiles industry. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your study rights are protected under the ESOS Act.
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The Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (CRICOS 114609H) is a vocational qualification that prepares international students for careers in the fashion and textile manufacturing sector. It sits within the field of education '03 - Engineering and Related Technologies' (specifically 030105 - Textile Making). While the course does not include a work component, the practical training prepares students for roles such as sewing machinist, pattern maker, or textile production assistant. TAFE NSW is a trusted government provider, and this course is fully registered on CRICOS, meaning it meets strict Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, ensuring accuracy.
At this level, students develop skills in textile production, garment assembly, and quality control. Typical learning outcomes include interpreting design specifications, operating sewing and finishing machinery, performing textile testing, and applying workplace health and safety procedures. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, students can expect a mix of theory and hands-on practice in industry-standard workshops. The course covers the VET national code MST31022, aligning with national competency standards. Graduates often pursue further study in fashion design or textile engineering, or enter the workforce directly. Australia's textile industry, though small, offers opportunities in niche markets like sustainable fashion and technical textiles.
The course duration is 20 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program with instruction in English. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies component). Students attend classes at TAFE NSW campuses in Lidcombe or Ultimo. The structured timetable typically involves 20-25 hours per week of class time, including practical sessions. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are A$16,800 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$16,800. Please note: this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC typically costs around A$500–A$700 per year for a single student. Living expenses in Sydney are estimated at A$600–A$800 per week for rent, food, and transport. Fees are set by Technical and Further Education Commission and may change. Always confirm the latest fees on the provider's website before applying. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees only, from the official CRICOS register.
International students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: a Certificate II or equivalent in a related field is recommended, but not always mandatory. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. For those who do not meet the academic or English requirements, TAFE NSW offers pathway programs such as English language courses or foundation studies. Contact TAFE NSW directly for specific entry criteria. HeadStart Academy does not determine entry— providers set their own requirements. Always verify with the institution.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students focusing on study can still access part-time work during their studies (up to 48 hours per fortnight under Student visa conditions) and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work experience or internships are not built into the curriculum, but students may seek voluntary industry exposure independently. The lack of a work component means the course is purely academic, allowing full concentration on skill development.
The course is delivered at two TAFE NSW campuses in Sydney, NSW: TAFE NSW Lidcombe (Lidcombe, NSW) and TAFE NSW Ultimo (Ultimo, NSW). Both are in the greater Sydney region, a city with over 250 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Lidcombe is a western suburb with good train connections to the city, while Ultimo is near the CBD, close to Central Station and the University of Technology Sydney. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average: weekly rent for a single room in a shared house ranges from A$350–A$600, and groceries cost around A$80–A$120. Public transport is accessible, with Opal cards providing discounts for students.
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must: obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from TAFE NSW, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity (tuition, OSHC, living costs, and travel), and hold valid OSHC. As an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition assurance and refund policies. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community. It offers diverse cultural experiences, world-class infrastructure, and a strong job market. With over 250 CRICOS-registered providers, students have ample choices. The cost of living is high: budget approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, food, and transport. Both Lidcombe and Ultimo campuses are well-connected by train and bus. Ultimo is within walking distance of Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Consider your lifestyle preferences and budget when choosing between campuses. Sydney's fashion industry is small but growing, with opportunities in boutique design, textile artistry, and retail. However, competition is high; graduates may need to relocate for roles. We recommend researching the local fashion scene and networking before arriving.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles at Technical and Further Education Commission: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is registered (CRICOS 00591E). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic records, English test scores (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and any portfolio if required. Check application deadlines on the TAFE NSW website. Submit your application online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once TAFE NSW issues a CoE, apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent for complex cases.
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View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.