If you're looking to start a career in the culinary industry in Australia, the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 117739G) is a practical, nationally recognised qualification delivered by Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd over one year. This course equips you with the skills to work as a commercial cook in restaurants, hotels, cafes, and other hospitality venues. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student visas, and is open to students from overseas who meet the entry standards. HeadStart Academy provides this detailed guide based on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (CRICOS course code 117739G) is a Certificate III delivered by Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is classified under the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services, specifically Cookery (110109). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study option. The course is taught entirely in English and includes a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered program, it allows international students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. The provider, Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04353J), is a private institution located in Geelong, Victoria. The course code SIT30821 is its national VET identifier.
This Certificate III level course focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of commercial cookery. Students learn kitchen operations, food preparation, cooking methods, menu planning, food safety, and workplace hygiene. The curriculum typically covers using kitchen equipment, preparing appetisers, stocks, sauces, vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, and desserts, as well as managing cost control and teamwork in a commercial kitchen. At the Certificate III level, graduates are prepared for roles such as chef or cook in various hospitality settings. For specific syllabus details, refer to Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation studies program. Full-time study is typically required to maintain student visa conditions. The intensive nature of the course balances classroom learning with practical kitchen sessions and the mandatory work placement.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,750, bringing the estimated total to A$19,750. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Geelong are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne — expect approximately A$250–350 per week for rent. Always confirm current fees directly with Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd at www.caped.au.
International students typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require a basic English proficiency and a genuine interest in cookery. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course; however, if you need to meet entry requirements, contact Capital Education Institute for advice on bridging programs.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 192 hours. Work-integrated learning (WIL) in the form of industry placement or internship is designed to give you real experience in a commercial kitchen environment. This placement helps you apply skills learned in the classroom, build professional networks, and meet competency standards required for graduation.
The course is delivered at Suite 1B, Level 1, 10-24 Moorabool St, GEELONG VIC 3220. Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city, about 75 km southwest of Melbourne. It has a growing international student population and a vibrant hospitality scene. The campus is accessible via public transport, including V/Line trains from Melbourne and local bus routes. Geelong offers a lower cost of living compared to Melbourne, with weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$180–250.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) or a suitable alternative. This course meets visa requirements as a full-time CRICOS-registered program. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. Visa outcomes are at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs — consult a registered migration agent for advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level, field, and city (Geelong) to find the right fit. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application to Capital Education Institute Pty Ltd with required documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa, ensuring you meet all conditions including OSHC and GTE.
Geelong offers a balanced lifestyle with access to beaches, parks, and a growing food scene. It's more affordable than Melbourne, with weekly living costs around A$350–450 for a single student (including rent, food, transport). The city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers, giving you options. However, if you prefer a larger city with more diverse hospitality opportunities, consider Melbourne. Think about your career goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences before choosing.
Ready to start your culinary career? Explore more CRICOS-registered cookery courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Capital Education Institute directly.
Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is a CRICOS-registered programme at Capital Education Institute 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.