Training, apprenticeships and culinary schools in Australia
Australia’s hospitality industry is built on one of the strongest vocational training systems in the world.
Chefs here can combine hands-on kitchen experience with accredited education through apprenticeships, TAFE colleges, and private culinary schools.
For both domestic and international students, the country offers clear pathways into professional cookery - supported by strict quality standards, workplace mentoring, and government-recognised qualifications.
This guide explores how to become a qualified chef in Australia, from apprenticeships and diploma courses to funding options and continuing professional development.
At a Glance
• Main pathways: Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Commercial Cookery), culinary school diplomas, on-the-job training
• Leading institutions: TAFE, Le Cordon Bleu, William Angliss Institute
• Duration: 2–4 years, depending on qualification and experience
• Average apprentice wage: AUD $40,000–$55,000
• Ongoing training: short courses, leadership programmes, sustainability modules
Why Australia Is a Great Place to Train
Australia’s chef training model blends academic study with real-world kitchen experience. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) ensures that every recognised course meets consistent national standards, meaning a Certificate III or Diploma earned in one state is valid across the country - and often respected internationally.
This mix of theory and practice suits the hands-on nature of hospitality. Trainees spend time both in class and on the job, learning essential techniques, food safety, management, and sustainability practices.
For international students, Australia’s culinary schools are also attractive for their industry placements, visa support, and strong graduate employment rates.
Pathways to Becoming a Qualified Chef
There are three main routes to becoming a recognised professional chef in Australia:
1. Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Commercial Cookery)
The most common and practical pathway. Apprenticeships usually run for three to four years, combining full-time work with structured study at a registered training organisation (RTO), often a TAFE college. Apprentices earn while they learn, working under experienced chefs while completing formal assessments.
2. Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Hospitality or Commercial Cookery
For those wanting a faster, more classroom-led approach, full-time study options are available through culinary schools and institutes. Diplomas typically take 1–2 years, with practical components and internships built in. Graduates often enter the workforce as qualified cooks or junior chefs.
3. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Experienced cooks can apply for RPL to gain formal qualifications based on their work history and skills. Assessment is carried out by TAFE or accredited providers who review practical demonstrations, references, and portfolios.
Leading Culinary Schools & Institutes
Australia’s training landscape includes both public TAFE colleges and private culinary academies. Here are some of the most respected:
Le Cordon Bleu Australia
Campuses: Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney
A global leader in classical French culinary education, Le Cordon Bleu offers Diplomas and Bachelor degrees
combining cookery, patisserie, and hospitality management. Courses often include internships with high-end hotels and restaurants.
Estimated tuition: AUD $35,000–$45,000 per year for international students.
William Angliss Institute (Melbourne)
Australia’s specialist centre for foods, tourism, and hospitality training. Its commercial cookery courses are highly regarded for innovation and business integration, preparing graduates for leadership roles.
Estimated tuition: AUD $12,000–$25,000 per year.
TAFE Colleges (NSW, QLD, SA, WA, VIC)
Publicly funded and industry-aligned, TAFE remains the backbone of chef training in Australia. It offers Certificate II to Advanced Diploma courses, apprenticeships, and workplace assessments.
TAFE campuses also support international students through English-language and visa assistance.
Private Colleges & Hospitality Schools
Institutions such as Academia Melbourne, ICHM Adelaide, and The Hotel School Sydney offer cookery and management programmes combining hands-on training with business studies. These are popular with overseas students seeking comprehensive career preparation.
Apprenticeships: Learning on the Job
An apprenticeship in Australia is more than just training - it’s a full-time paid job combined with structured study. Apprentices usually spend four days a week in a professional kitchen and one day at college or complete theory in study “blocks” several times a year.
Employers support apprentices by providing practical supervision and feedback, while training organisations handle coursework and assessments. Apprentices can expect to earn AUD $40,000–$55,000 annually, with wages increasing as experience grows.
Funding, Visas & International Options
For Australian citizens and residents, apprenticeships and TAFE courses are often subsidised by government schemes. Employers may receive incentive payments for taking on apprentices, and trainees benefit from discounted study fees.
For international students: Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows full-time study; Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows post-study work. English proficiency (IELTS) and financial proof are usually required.
Continuing Professional Development
Becoming a chef in Australia doesn’t end with qualification. Many professionals continue to upskill through short courses and advanced programmes in leadership, pastry, sustainability, and food safety. Institutions like TAFE, Le Cordon Bleu, and industry associations run refresher courses to help chefs stay current with trends and regulation.
Mentorship and networking are also key forms of development.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s unique blend of formal training and hands-on experience produces chefs with strong technical and leadership skills. Whether you’re an aspiring apprentice, an international student, or a working cook ready to formalise your skills, the options are diverse and respected worldwide.
Explore local TAFE campuses, culinary schools, or apprenticeship opportunities through The Staff Canteen Job Board to take your next step in Australia’s vibrant hospitality industry.
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Training, apprenticeships and culinary schools in Australia
