Are you an international student aiming to become a qualified chef in Australia? Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 116095B) is a Certificate III-level program delivered by Opal Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This practical course equips you with essential cookery skills for the hospitality industry, covering food preparation, kitchen operations, and workplace safety. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04255M), Opal Education operates under the ESOS Act, ensuring your legal protections as an international student. With two campuses in Tasmania—Hobart and Huonville—you’ll study in a region known for its vibrant food scene and affordable living costs. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to bring you accurate, up-to-date information. Use this page as your guide to understanding fees, entry requirements, work components, and the student visa process for this course.
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Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 116095B) is a Certificate III delivered by Opal Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification falls under the field of education '11 - Food, Hospitality and Personal Services' (specifically 110109 - Cookery). The VET national code is SIT30821. Students learn essential cookery techniques, menu planning, food safety, and kitchen management. Graduates can pursue roles such as commis chef, cook, or catering assistant. Opal Education Group Pty Ltd is a private institution registered with CRICOS (provider code 04255M). The course language is English and no dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. For a complete list of all CRICOS-registered courses, HeadStart Academy’s database covers 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers (as of April 2026).
The field of education 'Food and Hospitality' focuses on practical skills for the hospitality sector. At Certificate III level, students typically learn to prepare a variety of dishes, operate kitchen equipment, maintain hygiene standards, and work effectively in a team. While specific syllabus details are set by Opal Education Group, the CRICOS-registered course code 116095B indicates a structured program covering core cookery competencies. This level prepares you for entry-level supervisory roles in commercial kitchens. The VET national code SIT30821 aligns with national industry standards.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – not a double or foundation program. Study is likely full-time, with a mix of classroom theory and practical kitchen sessions. Check with Opal Education Group for specific timetables and delivery modes (e.g., on-campus, blended).
Tuition fee: A$16,000. Non-tuition fees: A$1,450. Estimated total: A$17,450. Please note: these are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Opal Education Group and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$400–A$500 per week in Tasmania for rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$650). Always confirm current fees directly with Opal Education Group via their official website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees or commissions.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Prior hospitality experience is not mandatory but may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway options may be available – contact Opal Education Group for details. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider will assess your academic background and English proficiency. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission; the institution sets final criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) gives you hands-on experience in a real commercial kitchen. Placements may be in restaurants, hotels, or catering venues. It is an invaluable opportunity to apply classroom skills, build industry connections, and enhance your CV. The provider will assist in arranging placements in line with course requirements.
Opal Education Group delivers this course at three locations in Tasmania: 101 Wilmot Road, Huonville TAS 7109; 73-81 Murray St, Hobart TAS 7000; and Level 2, 86 Collins Street, Hobart TAS 7000. Hobart is Tasmania’s capital, with a student population of around 25,000 across universities and VET providers. Living costs in Hobart are generally lower than mainland capitals – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–A$300, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. Huonville is a smaller town south of Hobart, offering a quieter lifestyle. Both locations are accessible via public transport.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). As a CRICOS-registered course, you are protected by the ESOS Act, including tuition fee protection and consumer rights. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Tasmania offers a unique study destination with a lower cost of living, stunning natural environment, and a growing hospitality sector. Hobart alone has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a range of courses in cookery and hospitality. The state’s food culture is renowned – from fresh seafood to award-winning wineries. However, consider Tasmania’s cooler climate, smaller job market, and limited public transport in rural areas. If you prefer a close-knit community and affordable lifestyle, Tasmania could be an excellent choice. For more insights, explore our Tasmania study page (/states/tas).
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Opal Education Group:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Cookery), and city (Hobart or Huonville). Confirm the course code 116095B and provider CRICOS 04255M.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Contact Opal Education Group for application forms, entry requirements (including English test scores), and deadlines. Submit your academic documents and any required evidence.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you’ll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and budget for living costs. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but always consult a MARA agent for complex cases.
Ready to start your culinary journey? Contact Opal Education Group for current fees and intake dates. Use the CRICOS course code 116095B when enquiring.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Opal Education Group 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.