Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery & Diploma of Hospitality

Commercial Cookery

Chefs plan and organise menus & kitchen staff at restaurants and for catering organisations. On completion of this course students will be a qualified Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chef or Chef de Partie in Australia.

Commercial Cookery

Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

Being a chef can be a very rewarding career and offers skills that can be applied all over the world in many different scenarios.

Australia has a very vibrant food culture that is made up of different multicultural influences. It is a great country to become a chef because of the high industry standards and the quality products that Australian chefs use.

Students will learn how to motivate and lead kitchen teams, identify and assess operational and service issues, plan food production, schedule workflow, and understand legal compliance issues, and plan, prepare and cost your their own menu.

After completing your studies, your possible job titles include but are not limited to: Chef de Cuisine (Head Chef or First Chef), Sous Chef (also known as Second Chef, as they are second in charge), Chef de Partie (also known as a Demi Chef, they are in charge of a certain section of the kitchen).

 

Course includes

  • Produce meat, poultry and seafood dishes.
  • Produce stocks, soups and sauces.
  • Maintain the quality of perishable items.
  • Learn safe food handling practices.
  • Prepare food to meet special dietary requirements.
  • Manage finances within a budget.
  • Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices.
  • Plan menus for many occasions and situations.
  • Must have graduated year 12 in your home country.
  • Must have a minimum English score of IELTS 5.5
  • Must be willing to undertake a 360 hour vocational placement
  • In Australia, fully qualified chefs earn an average of $1250 per week.
  • In Australia, a chef works an average of 46 hours per week.
  • Employment for this occupation rose strongly over the past five years and will continue to rise strongly in the long-term.
  • 72% of chefs are employed on full-time basis, which is above average compared to other roles in the hospitality industry.
  • Chefs in Australia can work in numerous different roles and areas.
Course Details

Price (per year)

$5 000 - $10 000, $10 000 - $15 000

Duration

12-24 months

Location

Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Cairns, Darwin, Gold Coast, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Tasmania, Toowoomba, Townsville, Whitsundays

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Monthly Intakes

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Temporary Graduate Visa

If undertaking study in Australia for a minimum of 2 years you may qualify for the Temporary Skilled Graduate Visa. This visa allows the holder 1.5 years of unlimited work rights in Australia. Many graduates use this time to build up experience in their field or find an employer that is willing to sponsor their visa.

If you have applied for the Temporary Graduate Visa you may also be eligible to apply for the Job Ready Program. The Job Ready Program is run through TRA and allows graduates in certain disciplines to have their skills assessed for skilled migration purposes. It is a way for people with no experience to have their skills assessed. Once the student receives a positive skills assessment they may be eligible to apply for permanent work visas such as State Sponsored and General Skilled Migration Visas.

Note: It is never recommended to engage in studies for the sole purpose of trying to gain a visa to Australia. Speak to us and we can find a course that matches your long-term career goals.

Graduate Visa - Pathway To Aus

Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent university graduates and certain vocational graduates the chance to remain in Australia and work after their studies have finished.

Chef (351311) is currently on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills ListThe skills assessment for chefs is delivered through TRA.

To obtain a positive skills assessment, the current qualification requirement is a Cert IV in Commercial Cookery. You may even be able to do this without being sponsored by an employer and you may not need to live in a regional area.

Below are some simple steps that may allow you to go down this pathway.

Note: It is never recommended to engage in studies for the sole purpose of trying to gain a visa to Australia. Speak to us and we can find a course that matches your long-term career goals.

Step 1: Study a course or package of courses

Study a course or package of courses that goes for at least 2 years and includes the Cert III in Commercial Cookery.

  • Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (General) (18 months)
  • Diploma of Hospitality (6 months)

Step 2: Receive the Temporary Graduate Visa

By studying for 2 years and undertaking 360 hours of vocational placement during your studies (most education providers will arrange this for you), you may be eligible to apply for and receive the temporary graduate visa.

The graduate visa is a work visa that allows the visa holder to live and work in Australia for up to 18 months. For more information on the graduate visa click here.

Step 3: Participate in the Job Ready Program

The benefit of the JRP is that on completion you will be provided with a positive skills assessment for general migration purposes. On this program you must work for at least 12 months as a qualified chef.

Your employer will not need to sponsor your visa, as you will already be on the graduate visa. This will increase your chances of finding employment, as it is very easy for the employer to hire you. You may find this video on the Job Ready Program helpful.

Step 4: Apply for a General Skilled Migration Visas

Once you have completed the Job Ready Program as a chef you will receive a positive skills assessment. Once you have the positive skills assessment you may be able to apply for a general skilled migration visa.

If eligible, the general skilled migration visa does not require you to have an employer that is willing to sponsor you. Please note that you will still be required to pass the points test and health checks applicable to apply for this visa.

Pathway to Aus

Why Use Pathway to Aus?

Pathway to Aus has assisted thousands of student’s study or migrate to Australia. We are here to support you throughout your journey and make the transition as easy and smooth as possible. Our experienced team of Education and Migration agents are ready to work with you to help you achieve your education and migration goals.

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Interviews with Our Students

Feel free to check these interviews with some of our students.

Frequently Asked Questions

In case you don’t find an answer to your question, feel free to consult with one of our agents.

How do I get started as a chef?

To get started as a chef, enroll in a culinary program like Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery or a Diploma in Hospitality Management for foundational training. For guidance and support in navigating your culinary education in Australia, including visa assistance and course selection, Pathway to Aus offers valuable resources. Visit their page on helping you to study in Australia for more information and assistance.

How do I get started as a chef? was last modified: December 4th, 2023 by PTA

What qualifications do I need to be a chef?

To be a chef, you typically need formal culinary education and practical kitchen experience.

Key qualifications include:

  1. Formal Culinary Education: Aspiring chefs often start with courses like the Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery or a Diploma in Hospitality Management. These programs teach foundational culinary skills and knowledge.
  2. Apprenticeship or Practical Experience: Hands-on experience in a commercial kitchen, often gained through apprenticeships or work placements, is crucial to develop practical skills and understand kitchen operations.
  3. Continuous Learning: Beyond formal education and initial training, chefs continue to learn and evolve their skills throughout their careers, adapting to new techniques and cuisines.
What qualifications do I need to be a chef? was last modified: December 4th, 2023 by PTA

How long does it take to become a qualified chef?

It typically takes between 2 to 4 years to become a qualified chef, including both formal education and practical experience.

This process involves:

  1. Formal Education: Aspiring chefs often begin with culinary education in programs like a Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery or a Diploma in Hospitality Management, which can take 12-24 months.
  2. Apprenticeship and Work Experience: Essential hands-on experience is gained through apprenticeships, aligning with or separate from the educational programs, adding to the time required to become proficient.
  3. Building Expertise: After formal education, chefs continue to develop their skills on the job. Achieving the status of a “qualified” chef involves not just course completion but also acquiring ample practical experience in various culinary tasks and kitchen management.

Overall, the journey from starting culinary education to becoming a fully qualified chef can span approximately 2 to 4 years, depending on the educational path chosen and the pace of individual skill development.

How long does it take to become a qualified chef? was last modified: December 4th, 2023 by PTA

Will these qualifications be recognised in my home country?

These qualifications are part of the Australian Qualification Framework. Most countries specifically European or North American countries accept qualifications issued by Australia. So yes, generally speaking, the qualifications will be accepted and allow you to work in your home country. Please note, we would always you check specifically with your home country.

Will these qualifications be recognised in my home country? was last modified: January 16th, 2023 by PTA

Is a chef in demand in Australia?

Employment for chefs has risen strongly over the past five years and is expected to continue this upward trend in the long term. With 78% of chefs employed on a full-time basis, which is above the average in the hospitality industry, it’s clear that chefs are in high demand in Australia. Additionally, the occupation of Chef is listed on Australia’s Medium to Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL), indicating a sustained need for skilled chefs in the country.

Growing Demand in the Hospitality Sector:

  • Strong Job Market: The rise in chef employment reflects the robust growth in Australia’s hospitality sector.
  • Full-Time Opportunities: The high percentage of full-time roles demonstrates the stability and demand in this profession.

Asian Chef Pathway to Aus

Skills and Qualifications:

  • Essential Training: To become a chef, specific culinary skills and qualifications are required. Explore courses in commercial cookery on Commercial Cookery Courses in Australia, providing the necessary training.
  • Practical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience in kitchens is crucial. These courses often include practical training components.

Role and Responsibilities:

Understanding the Profession: Knowing what a chef does is key. For insights into the daily responsibilities and work environment of a chef, visit Chef Roles and Responsibilities.

Earning Potential:

Salary Information: Chef salaries vary based on experience, location, and type of establishment. For more information on chef salaries in Australia, check out Chef Salary Insights in Australia.

Career Pathways:

Studying in Australia:

International Students: For international students, understanding the process of studying in Australia is crucial. Pathway to Aus offers comprehensive guidance on this topic at Studying in Australia: A Guide for International Students.

Enrollment Assistance:

Getting Started: Ready to start your journey as a chef in Australia? Pathway to Aus can assist with the enrollment process. Visit Enroll with Pathway to Aus for personalized assistance and support.

In conclusion, the demand for chefs in Australia is strong and growing, offering a promising career path. With the right training, experience, and guidance, aspiring chefs can look forward to a rewarding and dynamic career in the Australian hospitality industry.

 

Is a chef in demand in Australia? was last modified: November 16th, 2023 by PTA

How much does a chef get paid?

As per job outlook, chefs in Australia earn an average weekly pay of $1,250 per week. This figure, however, can vary based on several factors including experience, location, type of establishment, and level of expertise. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of a chef’s earning potential in Australia:

Experience Level:

  • Entry-Level Chefs: Those starting their career may earn less but can expect their salary to increase with experience.
  • Experienced Chefs: Senior chefs or those with specialized skills often command higher salaries.

Location Variance:

  • Urban vs. Rural: Chefs in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne may earn more compared to those in rural areas.
  • Regional Differences: Salaries can also differ from state to state.

Type of Establishment:

  • Fine Dining vs. Casual Dining: Chefs working in high-end restaurants typically earn more than those in casual dining settings.
  • Hotel Industry: Working in hotels or resorts can also influence pay, often offering competitive salaries.

Specializations:

  • Culinary Specialties: Chefs specializing in certain cuisines or culinary techniques may have higher earning potential.
  • Management Roles: Those in managerial positions like head chef or kitchen manager usually have higher wages.

Additional Income Sources:

Consultancy and Private Events: Some chefs boost their income through consultancy work or by catering private events.

Further Insights:

Detailed Salary Information: For a comprehensive overview of chef salaries in Australia, visit Chef Salary Insights in Australia.

Career Advancement:

Studying in Australia:

International Students: For those looking to study culinary arts in Australia, Studying in Australia: A Guide for International Students provides valuable information.

Enrollment Assistance:

Start Your Culinary Journey: If you’re ready to embark on a culinary career, Pathway to Aus can assist with the enrollment process. Visit Enroll with Pathway to Aus for support and guidance.

In summary, while the average weekly pay for chefs in Australia is around $1,250, actual earnings can vary widely. Factors like experience, location, type of establishment, and culinary specialization all play a role in determining a chef’s salary. With the right training and career strategy, chefs can significantly enhance their earning potential in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

How much does a chef get paid? was last modified: November 16th, 2023 by PTA

Can foreigners do a chef apprenticeship in Australia?

International students can’t do a chef’s apprenticeship in Australia. Instead, they can study a 24-month vocational course to become a qualified chef. Click here to read more about apprenticeships and vocational courses for international students

Can foreigners do a chef apprenticeship in Australia? was last modified: January 16th, 2023 by PTA

How much is a commercial cookery course?

Commercial cookery courses range from $7,500 – $14,000 per year

However, the cost of a commercial cookery course in Australia varies depending on the institution and the specific program. Here are some examples of the fees from various sources:

  1. International Student Australia: The tuition fees for commercial cookery courses in Australia typically range between $16,000-$25,000. Specifically, the basic tuition fee for a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery is around $15,000, while the fee for a Diploma in Hospitality Management is approximately $5,000. Additionally, a combined course of Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery and Diploma of Hospitality Management is about $22,750 AUD. There is also a course offered at around $6,400, payable in two equal installments​​.
  2. Le Cordon Bleu: For Australian students, the tuition fee for the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Le Cordon Bleu is AU$34,280, while for international students, it is AU$39,476. This course duration is 15 months, including a work placement of up to 6 months​​.
  3. Active Study Australia: The costs for commercial cookery courses start from $9,000 to $14,000 per year. These courses are available in locations including the Gold Coast, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Sunshine Coast, Hobart, Toowoomba, Townsville, and Byron Bay​​.
  4. Skills Australia Institute: The tuition fee for the Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery is about $15,000, and for the Diploma in Hospitality Management, it’s around $5,000. Additionally, the resource fee for the certificate course is $1,200, and for the diploma course, it is $300​​.

These fees may be subject to change, and additional costs such as resource fees or a chef’s kit may apply. Prospective students should consult the specific educational institutions for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structures.

How much is a commercial cookery course? was last modified: December 4th, 2023 by PTA

Where can I study to be a chef in Australia?

To study to become a chef in Australia, you can enroll in culinary courses offered in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Hobart, Adelaide, and Perth. Key programs include the Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery and the Diploma of Hospitality Management, taking 12-24 months to complete.

These courses offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for various culinary roles. For specific course details and locations, resources like Pathway to Aus provide comprehensive information, including pages for Brisbane, Melbourne, and their general guide on becoming a chef in Australia.

Where can I study to be a chef in Australia? was last modified: December 4th, 2023 by PTA

What do you do as a chef?

As a chef, you would:

  • Determine how much food to order and maintain an appropriate supply at the restaurant
  • Keep up with trends in cooking and the restaurant business to ensure that guests have a positive experience
  • Experiment to come up with new specialties that will draw diners into the restaurant
  • Liaise with suppliers, oversee deliveries, manage the kitchen budget and design menus
  • Employ food safety best practices and make sure that all kitchen staff members do the same
  • Manage quality control and taste the dishes; making sure they are at the right standard and are presented correctly before they go out to the customer
  • Coach the sous chef and other members of the kitchen staff, so they perform at their best
What do you do as a chef? was last modified: January 29th, 2024 by PTA

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