Are you an international student looking to study automotive technology in Australia? Diploma of Automotive Technology (CRICOS course code 118518A) is a Diploma delivered by Waratah Polytechnic Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is designed to equip you with the skills needed for a career in the automotive service and repair industry. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04035A), Waratah Polytechnic offers this qualification at two campuses in New South Wales: Burwood and Punchbowl. With Australia's strong automotive sector and over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, you have a world of opportunities. HeadStart Academy has sourced all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to bring you accurate, up-to-date information. Below, we break down the fees, entry requirements, locations, and visa details so you can make an informed choice.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Diploma of Automotive Technology (CRICOS course code 118518A) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Waratah Polytechnic Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04035A). The field of education is Automotive Engineering (030501), falling under Engineering and Related Technologies. This course prepares graduates for roles such as automotive technician, service manager, or workshop supervisor. The programme runs for 78 weeks (1 year 6 months) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring high standards of education and consumer rights. Australia's CRICOS system guarantees that only registered providers can enrol overseas students, so you know your qualification is recognised.
At the Diploma level (AQF 5), students develop technical and theoretical knowledge in automotive systems, diagnostics, and management. The field of Automotive Engineering covers vehicle mechanics, electrical systems, engine performance, and workplace safety. Graduates learn to diagnose complex faults, perform advanced repairs, and oversee workshop operations. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the course typically includes both practical and theoretical components. Waratah Polytechnic's programme is designed to meet industry standards, giving you hands-on experience in real-world settings. Upon completion, you may pathway into higher education or directly into the workforce. Remember, this is a general overview—always check with Waratah Polytechnic for exact subjects.
The course length is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Students are expected to study full-time, attending classes and completing assessments. The language of instruction is English, and there is no work component integrated into the programme. This is a single qualification—no dual degree or foundation studies. The 78-week duration allows for in-depth coverage of automotive technology, balancing theory and practical sessions. For international students, it's important to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Automotive Technology is A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,000, making an estimated total of A$21,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change—always confirm directly with Waratah Polytechnic. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. Sydney's cost of living is high: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$280–$400, groceries about A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50. We recommend budgeting at least A$21,041 per year for living expenses (Department of Home Affairs estimate). Visit Waratah Polytechnic's official website for current fee schedules.
International students generally need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent English test). For a Diploma, you typically need completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. No specific prior study in automotive is required, but it may help. Waratah Polytechnic may have additional requirements—contact them directly. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; consult the provider for alternative entry. Always have your academic transcripts and English test results ready when applying. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements; these are indicative guidelines only.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, as a Student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time experience in the automotive industry or elsewhere. Remember, work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must not compromise your studies. For details on student work entitlements, see the Department of Home Affairs.
This course is delivered at two campuses in New South Wales: Burwood Campus (7 Deane Street, Burwood NSW 2134) and Punchbowl Campus (99 Wattle St, Punchbowl NSW 2196). Both are in the Sydney metropolitan area. Burwood is a vibrant suburb with excellent public transport (train and bus) to the city centre, a large student population, and diverse amenities. Punchbowl is a growing area with good connectivity via train and bus. Sydney is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a top destination for international students. Studying in NSW gives you access to a strong job market, but living costs are higher—budget accordingly.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Waratah Polytechnic, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Do not rely on work to fund your studies. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Automotive Technology at Waratah Polytechnic: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and find Waratah Polytechnic. Filter by course level, field, and location (NSW). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, submit your English test results, and meet application deadlines. Waratah Polytechnic will assess your eligibility. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence. Always keep copies of all documents.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more diploma courses in NSW or contact Waratah Polytechnic for application details. HeadStart Academy is here to help you find the right CRICOS-registered course.
Diploma of Automotive Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Waratah Polytechnic 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.