Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (CRICOS course code 116533G) is a Certificate III delivered by Nithi College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, part of the Automotive Engineering and Technology field, prepares you for a career as a light vehicle mechanic, covering diagnostics, repairs, and servicing of cars and light vehicles. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian government standards for international students, ensuring quality and legal protections under the ESOS Act. Nithi College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03953D) is a private provider accredited to enrol overseas students. The course is delivered at ILLOURA College in Cannington, Western Australia, a suburb of Perth. With an indicative total fee of A$18,000 and an English requirement of IELTS 5.0–5.5, this course offers a practical pathway into Australia's automotive industry. At HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au), we provide independent, data-driven information to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620) is an AQF Level 3 qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework. It is classified under Field of Education 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically 0305 - Automotive Engineering and Technology and 030503 - Vehicle Mechanics. This course is designed for individuals who want to work as light vehicle mechanics in the automotive service and repair industry. Graduates will be able to diagnose, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical systems in light vehicles, use diagnostic tools, and follow workplace safety procedures. Nithi College Pty Ltd, with CRICOS code 03953D, is a private college that delivers this course. The CRICOS register (April 2026) lists over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses, and this one is specifically tailored for international students. As a trusted resource, HeadStart Academy uses data directly from the official CRICOS register to ensure accuracy.
The field of Automotive Engineering and Technology covers the principles and techniques for servicing and repairing vehicles. In this Certificate III program, you will develop practical skills in diagnosing faults, servicing engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, and suspension systems. You'll also learn to use specialised diagnostic equipment, perform scheduled maintenance, and repair electrical circuits. While the exact syllabus is set by Nithi College Pty Ltd, typical outcomes include the ability to carry out work according to industry regulations, communicate effectively with customers, and work in a team. This course is hands-on and designed to meet the demands of the Australian automotive sector, which is a key part of the engineering and technology industry.
This course is scheduled over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The duration is 78 weeks, indicating a full-time study load. The language of instruction is English, and the program is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation course). Study mode is typically on-campus at the ILLOURA College location, involving practical workshops and theoretical sessions. The 78-week timeframe allows sufficient time for skill development and assessment. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,000, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$1,000, giving an estimated total of A$18,000. These fees are set by Nithi College Pty Ltd and are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. Please note: fees are indicative only and subject to change. Always confirm the current fees directly with the provider at www.illoura.edu.au. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC typically costs around A$600–$1,200 per year, and living costs in Perth (where Cannington is located) average A$500–$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Budgeting carefully is essential for your stay.
General entry requirements for this course include an overall IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent) as a guide. Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or an equivalent qualification, as Certificate III is typically undertaken after secondary schooling. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a pre-training assessment. Since Nithi College Pty Ltd sets specific academic requirements, it is important to check their website or contact them directly. There are no foundation studies or pathway options listed for this course; however, the provider may offer bridging programs. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.
This course has no mandatory work component. It does not include a structured internship, placement, or work experience requirement. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain practical experience in the automotive industry while studying, but it is not a formal part of the course.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is delivered at ILLOURA College, located at 113 Wharf St, CANNINGTON WA 6107. Cannington is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth has a large international student population, with dozens of CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a high quality of life, with a Mediterranean climate, excellent public transport, and a strong economy. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a share house around $300–$450, groceries $100–$150, and transport (using the SmartRider card) about $40–$60. The ILLOURA College campus is accessible by train and bus from Perth's CBD, making it convenient for students.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets these conditions. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, which safeguards student rights, including tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology at Nithi College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au or HeadStart Academy's course finder to verify that Nithi College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03953D) is registered. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Automotive Engineering), and location (Western Australia) to confirm this course meets your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit www.illoura.edu.au for application forms, entry requirements (including English test scores like IELTS), and deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and passport. Submit your application to Nithi College Pty Ltd.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet the GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements. After visa grant, you can commence your studies.
Western Australia offers a unique study environment with a strong economy, particularly in resources, engineering, and automotive sectors. Perth, the state capital, is home to over 20,000 international students and numerous vocational training providers. The automotive industry in WA has steady demand for qualified mechanics, providing good job prospects after graduation. Living costs are moderate compared to eastern states, and the lifestyle is relaxed with beautiful beaches and parks. However, consider that Perth is geographically isolated, which may affect travel to other parts of Australia. If you value a balanced lifestyle and a growing automotive job market, WA could be an excellent choice.
Start your application today by visiting the Nithi College Pty Ltd website or contact HeadStart Academy for more guidance on choosing the right automotive course in Australia.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Nithi 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.