Certificate III in Production Horticulture (CRICOS course code 117184D) is a Certificate III delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 program is designed for students seeking practical skills in horticulture production, covering plant care, soil management, and sustainable farming practices. Based in Mildura, Victoria — a major horticulture region — this course offers hands-on training aligned with industry needs. As a CRICOS-registered provider (01985A), Sunraysia Institute of TAFE ensures international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. With an indicative tuition of $15,142 and no additional non-tuition fees, this course represents a focused pathway into Australia’s agriculture sector. Whether you aim to work in fruit and vegetable production, nursery management, or vineyard operations, this qualification opens doors to entry-level roles or further study in horticulture. HeadStart Academy presents this data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
This course belongs to the field of Horticulture and Viticulture (Field 0503), a sub-discipline of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies. At Certificate III level, students typically learn to perform a range of skilled operations in horticulture production. Core topics include planting and propagating plants, maintaining soil health and irrigation systems, managing pests and diseases, and operating machinery safely. Graduates develop competencies in workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability, and communication within a team. While the exact syllabus is set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, this qualification aligns with the national training package AHC30624, ensuring consistency across Australian providers. The practical focus prepares students for roles such as horticulturalist, farm supervisor, or nursery grower. Note: Course content may vary; confirm with the provider for the latest curriculum.
According to the CRICOS register, Certificate III in Production Horticulture is delivered over 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Students are expected to attend classes and practical sessions at the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura campus. No work component is included, meaning the course focuses solely on academic and practical training without a mandatory internship or work placement. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$15,142, with no additional non-tuition fees, giving an estimated total of A$15,142. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: fees are set by the provider and subject to change. Always confirm current charges on the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE website (sunitafe.edu.au). The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Mildura are lower than in major cities — indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$150–A$200, groceries around A$60–A$90, and public transport A$20–A$30. For accurate budgeting, refer to the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements.
For international students, Sunraysia Institute of TAFE typically requires an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent), demonstrating English proficiency at a vocational level. Applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent (AQF Level 2) as a prior qualification, though specific academic prerequisites may vary. This course does not offer a foundation or pathway option within itself; students who do not meet entry standards should contact the provider to discuss bridging programs. Always check the official entry requirements on Sunraysia Institute of TAFE's website, as they may change.
No work component is included in this course. The program is structured without a mandatory work placement or internship. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in the region's horticulture industry while studying.
This course is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE - Mildura, located in Mildura, Victoria. Mildura is a major regional centre in northwest Victoria, known for its vibrant agriculture sector, particularly citrus, grapes, and almonds. The city has a growing international student community, with several CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse courses. Mildura offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with easy access to public transport and student services. Studying here provides immersion in Australia's horticulture heartland.
To study this course, international students typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover — about A$600 per year for single students). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are approved for visa purposes. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded and you have access to refund and complaint mechanisms.
Follow these three steps to study Certificate III in Production Horticulture at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Sunraysia Institute of TAFE (CRICOS 01985A) and course 117184D meet your goals. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents) and application deadlines on the Sunraysia Institute of TAFE website (sunitafe.edu.au). Submit your application and any required evidence. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Mildura offers a unique study experience for horticulture students. With over 10 registered providers in the city, a population of about 55,000, and a strong agricultural economy, it's ideal for those wanting practical exposure. Living costs are moderate: a single person's monthly expenses (excluding rent) are around A$800–A$1,000, and rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is about A$900–A$1,200 per month. Public transport is bus-based, with a student concession card available. Consider whether you prefer a regional or urban lifestyle — Mildura provides a close-knit community and direct access to farms and vineyards.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to Sunraysia Institute of TAFE.
Certificate III in Production Horticulture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. 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.