Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (117028E) - Australian College of Culinary and Management Pty Ltd

What you'll study

This course falls under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (broad field 11), specifically Food and Hospitality (narrow field 1101) and Cookery (detailed field 110109). At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students learn practical skills for commercial kitchen environments, including food safety, menu planning, cooking techniques, and kitchen management. Typical competencies include preparing appetisers, stocks, sauces, vegetables, and meat dishes, as well as managing kitchen operations and teamwork. This qualification provides a pathway to higher-level cookery courses or direct entry into the workforce. For precise syllabus details, refer to the provider's official course documentation.

Duration and study mode

The course duration as listed on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks). Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, with a combination of classroom theory and practical kitchen sessions. The work component of 12 weeks (16 hours per week) is integrated into the program. Assessment methods typically include practical demonstrations, written assignments, and workplace observations. Students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions.

Fees (indicative — set by Australian College of Culinary and Management Pty Ltd)

Indicative tuition fee: A$15,000. Non-tuition fees (such as application, materials, or enrolment fees): A$1,700. Estimated total: A$16,700. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge are not included. These can add substantially to your total cost of studying in Australia. For instance, average living costs in Victoria range from A$1,200 to A$1,500 per month depending on lifestyle and location. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Australian College of Culinary and Management Pty Ltd by visiting their website at http://www.accm.vic.edu.au/. Fees are subject to change and are set by the institution.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

The indicative English language requirement for this course is IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for this level: typically completion of Year 10 or equivalent, or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the academic or English requirements; contact the provider for details. All international students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion as part of the student visa application. Entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary, so always check with Australian College of Culinary and Management Pty Ltd before applying.

Work component

Yes, this course includes a compulsory work component: 12 weeks at 16 hours per week, totalling approximately 192 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of an industry placement in a commercial kitchen, such as a restaurant, hotel, or catering facility. It provides practical experience to reinforce classroom learning and helps students build industry networks. Placements are arranged by the provider, but students may also source their own employer with approval. The work component is a graded part of the course and must be successfully completed to graduate.

Delivery locations

This course is delivered at multiple locations in Victoria. The primary campuses are in Armstrong Creek (a suburb of Geelong) and Melbourne CBD. Armstrong Creek campuses: 163 Batten Rd, 37-61 Vines Rd (Hamlyn Heights is nearby), and 46-70 Central Bvd — all in the Armstrong Creek area. Melbourne campuses: Suite 3, Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, and Suite 4, Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St. Armstrong Creek offers a quieter, more affordable living environment compared to Melbourne. Geelong has a growing student population and lower rent (approximately A$150–200 per week for shared accommodation). Melbourne, as a major international student hub, has over 400,000 international students from 200+ providers, but higher living costs (around A$200–350 per week for shared housing). Public transport is accessible: Geelong has bus and train connections, while Melbourne's CBD is well-serviced by trams, trains, and buses.

Student visa

International students studying this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of the course plus a short period after. Key conditions: work rights — 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and course progress. You also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate your intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity must be shown to cover course fees, living costs, and OSHC. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Australian College of Culinary and Management Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and check CRICOS registration. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Food and Hospitality), and location (Victoria). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – visit the provider's website (http://www.accm.vic.edu.au/) or contact their admissions team. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), passport copy, and any other requirements. Note application deadlines and any pre-requisites. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Then submit your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence, GTE statement, and financial documents. Visa processing times vary; apply early.

Is Armstrong Creek or Melbourne right for you?

Choosing between Armstrong Creek and Melbourne depends on your lifestyle and budget. Armstrong Creek is a growing suburb in Geelong, offering a suburban feel with access to Geelong's city amenities. Living costs are lower than Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a shared room is A$150–200, groceries A$70–100, and transport around A$30–50. Geelong has a smaller international student community but a supportive environment. Melbourne, on the other hand, is a global metropolis with diverse cultures, more job opportunities, and a vibrant food scene. However, living costs are higher: rent A$200–350 per week, groceries A$80–120, and transport A$40–60. Both campuses are accessible via public transport. Consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and career goals when choosing your campus.

Ready to start your culinary career? Use HeadStart Academy to compare this course with other CRICOS-registered cookery programs across Australia, or contact Australian College of Culinary and Management directly for the latest information.

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