Student Handbook

AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS & CULINARY INSTITUTE

STUDENT HANDBOOK - 2025 / V4

The information contained within this document is the property of ABCI which is confidential and protected by international copyright laws and any unauthorized use of this document or its contents may violate copyright, trademark, and other laws. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced or translated in any form or by any means, or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted electronically or otherwise, without the prior written consent of ABCI.

Review Process: This policy shall be reviewed annually in compliance with the VET Quality Framework including the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015 and Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Framework); and the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Framework including but not limited to: The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act 2000), Education Services for Overseas Students Regulations 2019 (ESOS Reg 2019) and the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 (The National Code 2018); and all other applicable State and Commonwealth legislation.

Next Review Due: April 2026

Version history

Version	Date	Details
V1.1	Oct 2019	Original version
V2	Dec 2020	2020 update
V3	April 2024	2024 update Changes to course details, addition of Adelaide campus and formatting
V4	April 2025	2025 update Changes on the team Melbourne and Adelaide

Welcome

Welcome to Australian Business & Culinary Institute!

Australian Business & Culinary Institute (ABCI) is a registered Training Organization and CRICOS Provider committed to deliver high quality education to its students, meets administrative, delivery, staffing, facility, marketing, financial quality assurance and assessment standards agreed to by Federal, State and Territory Governments in Australia.

The courses at ABCI are specifically tailored to industry standards and requirements.

You are about to begin your study journey with ABCI, and we want to help you make your learning journey rewarding.

The Student Handbook contains all necessary information that is useful throughout the duration of your studies.

Please feel free to provide suggestions and make comments regarding our standard of service, to help us to improve and make your learning journey as enjoyable and valuable to you as possible.

Although all attempts have been made to make the information as accurate as possible, students should check with the college that the information is accurate when planning their courses.

Information about course fees, credit transfer, recognition of prior learning, admission and enrolment procedures, examinations, and services available to students can be accessed by contacting the University directly.

Mission & Vision

ABCI provides training and assessment for several technical courses ensuring that students are provided with Australian qualifications recognized both locally and internationally.

Australian Business & Culinary Institute Contact Details

Adelaide Campus:

Head Office: Level 1, 142 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000

Phone: 08 8311 1394

Email: charles@abcinstitute.edu.au

Website: www.abcinstitute.edu.au

Melbourne Campus:

Main office: Suite 4.16, 343 Little Collins Street, Melbourne 3000

Commercial Kitchen Address: 74 Sydney Street, Albion 3020

Phone: 0480 122 851

Email: info@abcinstitute.edu.au

Website: www.abcinstitute.edu.au

ABCI Staff Contacts Melbourne

NAME	POSITION	EMAIL
Abu Sadek	Director	ceo@abcinstitute.edu.au
Sandhya Vikurthi	Administration Manager	admin@abcinstitute.edu.au
Dani Injoque	Marketing Manager Melbourne	daniela.injoque@abcinstitute.edu.au

ABCI Staff Contacts Adelaide
Charles Arul Pathimaraj	CEO	charles@abcinstitute.edu.au
Pankaj Bhimra	Administration Manager	pankaj@abcinstitute.edu.au
Lana McCreight	Academic Manager	lana@abcinstitute.edu.au
Daniela Cerna	Marketing Manager Adelaide	daniela@abcinstitute.edu.au
Marcia Cruz	Student Officer Support	marcia@abcinstitute.edu.au

Training Facilities

Melbourne Campus:

The training classrooms and administration are located at Level 4 suite 4.16-4.17 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria. This location is on a main road about 1 km from the center of Melbourne. It is easily accessed by train with frequent services to Parliament Station which is a gentle 5 minute walk from the Institute.

Kitchen Address: 74 Sydney Street, Albion 3020

Students will be given complete information about the location of facilities and travel between the facilities during the orientation program run by the Institute.

Adelaide Campus:

The training classrooms and administration are located at Level 1, 142 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000. This location is on a main road, a short walk from the city center. It is easily accessed by train with frequent services to Adelaide Railway Station which is opposite from the Institute.

Students will be given complete information about the location of facilities and travel between the facilities during the orientation program run by the Institute.

Our Obligation as your RTO

As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) registered with Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), we have an obligation to ensure the quality of the nationally recognised training and assessment we deliver. We must comply at all times with the Standards for RTOs 2015 which are part of the VET Quality Framework and ESOS act 2000 requirements. To ensure compliance we have developed comprehensive internal policies, procedures and systems that guide our compliant operations and we must participate in audits with ASQA upon their request. In addition, we must ensure that any third parties that we work with who have any involvement in your training and assessment comply as well. This includes any training partners, marketing brokers and salespeople where applicable.

As the RTO we have the responsibility to provide quality training and assessment in compliance with the standards for Registered Training organization 2015 and for the issuance of AQF certification documentation

If at any time you feel we have not met our obligations as an RTO, you have the right to make a complaint following our Complaints and Appeals Policy outlined further on in this Handbook.

Consumer rights

The following cooling-off period applies in Victoria under the following circumstances. The cooling off period is 7 days from the date you signed the student written agreement. To exercise this right, you must notify our office in writing that you wish to cancel within 7 days of signing the student written agreement. This can be done by email to info@abcinstitute.edu.au or by post.

Changes in ownership or third-party arrangements

Where there are any changes to agreed services, ABCI will advise the learner as soon as practicable, including in relation to any new third-party arrangements, or a change in ownership, or changes to existing third party arrangements.

Living in Australia

Australia

Australia is a land of contrasts: sweeping golden beaches, coral reefs rich with marine life, tropical rainforests, mountain ranges, vast grazing lands and sparse deserts.

One of the oldest continents, Australia is the only country to occupy an entire continent.

Surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Australia has many animals and plants, which are unique on the planet. The surface geology is typically old and flat with a major mountain range stretching down the eastern coast and another mountain range in the northwest of the continent.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a welcoming and safe student city that is consistently ranked as the most livable and best student city in Australia.

Whether you are studying an undergraduate or post graduate degree, an English language course or vocational training, Melbourne delivers an unforgettable student experience for more than 180,000 international students from 160 countries every year.

As Australia’s epicenter for world-class education and research, the state of Victoria also boasts regional student cities offering spectacular scenery, welcoming communities, generous post study work rights and a relaxed lifestyle.

Adelaide

Adelaide is the world’s third most livable city, with a vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty on its doorstep. There is so much to experience beyond the classroom, from local fresh food markets, international sporting events and world-renowned arts festivals. The layout of the city means you spend less time commuting and more time enjoying life. With a lower cost of living than other capital cities in Australia, you have more money to enjoy it too. That’s why there are over 44,199 student enrolments from 130 countries and regions around the world. The city is designed for life.

ABCI welcomes overseas students

Overseas students are welcomed in Australia because they:

Contribute to the development of people and institutions both in their home country and in Australia.
Contribute to the Australia’s research capability
Develop cultural, educational and economic links between Australians and people of other nations.

Australia has a long history of involvement in international education development, staff and student exchange programs and scholarships.

A Good Choice for Study

There are more than 500,000 overseas students studying in Australia. They have chosen Australia for several reasons:

Australia has a high-quality education system, the equal of any country in the world
Australia offers traditional education in reputable schools, colleges and universities
Awards from Australian institutions of higher education are recognized internationally
Australian universities, colleges and schools have established networks of support to help overseas students
The Australian education system includes informality and accessibility of academic staff, the availability of computers, small group tutorials and close supervision,
Living costs and tuition costs compare well with other countries and most overseas students are permitted to work part time.
Australia is a safe, stable country with a pleasant climate.

Study Methods

In Australia, much emphasis is placed upon private (individual) study along the lines of assignments, on research and learning to analyse data and present arguments about subject matter, and on being willing to defend one’s argument. All these involve heavy use of libraries, intensive note taking in lectures, and active participation in the learning process (as opposed to passive listening and remote learning).

To be a successful student in Australia, you will need to adapt to these methods of learning, but most education institutions in Australia are very willing to help as they offer counseling services and assistance to develop effective study skills. Many lecturers in Australia have vast experience teaching overseas students, they understand the difficulties in getting used to different study methods and they will be patient in helping you to develop new skills.

Cost of Living

The Below figure are only guidelines and will vary as per current economic conditions in Australia

Students will need about AUD $20,290 per year (excluding tuition) to cover living expenses. According to the Government Website, Study in Australia, Australia is a sophisticated, friendly and affordable country which enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the world. The average international student in Australia spends about A$360 per week on accommodation, food, clothing, entertainment, transport, international and domestic travel, telephone, and incidental costs.

The cost of living depends a lot on the kind of accommodation a student chooses. A married student with dependents will need approximately an additional A$7100 per year for Spouse and additional $3040 for child.

The lifestyle in Australia is safe and friendly. Australians have a high standard of living. The climate is pleasant, there is plenty of food and the vast natural resources in Australia enable most people to live well.

Fruit, vegetables and meat are available fresh and at reasonable prices. Clothing and personal effects are usually good quality and available at a wide variety of prices.

Below is a price table of typical daily items. This is only a guide. Remember that you can shop around for items such as clothing and shoes to find a cheaper source.

Visa Requirements

The Department of Home Affairs publishes a full list of mandatory and discretionary student visa requirements at https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/stud.

Change of address

Upon arriving in Australia, you are required to advise the Institute of your residential address and telephone number and of any subsequent changes to your residential address. This is extremely important. Under Section 20 of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, the Institute is obliged to serve a notice at your last known address if you breach a student visa condition relating to attendance or academic performance. The Institute may also send warning notices to you which are aimed at helping prevent breaches of your visa conditions. It is your responsibility and in your own interest to ensure that you always update your address details at the Institute to ensure you receives important information about your course, fees and possible breaches of your student visa.

Additional information on student visa issues is available on the DHA web site at: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Student initiated deferral or suspension of enrolment

Students may initiate a request to defer commencement of studies or suspend their studies on the grounds of compassionate or compelling circumstances. Students wishing to defer the commencement of studies or suspend their studies must apply to do so in writing to the Institute using the student deferral, suspension or cancellation application form or in writing by email or post. Full details and documentary evidence of the compassionate or compelling circumstances must be included with the application for it to be considered.

If approved, the Institute will report your deferral of commencement or suspension of studies to DHA which may affect the status of your visa. If you require more information as to how this action may affect your visa status, please contact your local DHA office or phone the DHA helpline 131881.

Student cancellation of enrolment

Cancellation of enrolment may result in a refund of tuition fees as stated in the Written Agreement between the Institute and the student. Students who cancel their enrolment and think they are due for a refund must also apply for a refund. Refund applications must be made in writing to the Institute Training Manager. The student refund application form, available from the Institute, may be used as the written application. Written applications for refunds will also be accepted by mail or by email. Refunds will be made within 28 days of receipt of a written application and will include a statement explaining how the refund was calculated.

The Institute will report your cancellation of studies to DHA which may affect the status of your visa. If you require more information as to how this action may affect your visa status, please contact your local DHA office or phone the DHA helpline 131 881.

Institute initiated suspension or cancellation of enrolment

The Institute may decide to suspend or cancel a student’s enrolment on its own initiative as a response to breaching the student code of behavior through misbehavior, a poor academic record by the student. If the Institute is intending to initiate a suspension or cancellation of enrolment, a warning letter will be sent to the student’s currently notified address and the student will have 20 working days from the date of the final warning letter to complain or appeal against the Institute suspension or cancellation. The Institute will report any suspension or cancellation to DHA which may affect the status of your visa. If you require more information as to how this action may affect your visa status, please contact your local DHA office or phone the DHA helpline 131 881

Institute deferral of commencement

The Institute may also decide to defer the commencement of a course. If the Institute defers the commencement of a course, the provider default conditions in the Written Agreement between the Institute and the student will be triggered and the Institute will be obliged to repay all course money within 14 days of the date of deferral unless alternative arrangements can be made which are acceptable to students.

If approved, the Institute will report its deferral of commencement to DHA which may affect the status of your visa. If you require more information as to how this action may affect your visa status, please contact your local DHA office or phone the DHA helpline 131 881.

Department of Home Affairs

According to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) you must provide evidence that satisfies the assessment factors applicable to you to be granted a student visa. Assessment factors include your financial ability, English proficiency, likely compliance with the conditions of your visa and any other matters considered relevant to assessing your application. Additional information on student visa issues is available on DHA Internet site on https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/.

Attendance Monitoring Policy and Procedure

Students’ attendance is closely monitored, and ALL students are expected to attend a minimum 80% of their scheduled classes. If you are ill, you are required to produce a medical certificate and submit it to reception.

For more details refer to Attendance Monitoring Policy and Procedure.

Monitoring student attendance and progress:

The Student Support Department makes sure that services are available to help students meet course requirements and maintain satisfactory attendance (Refer to Attendance Monitoring Policy and Procedure). The Student Support Department also ensures students are aware of the course progress requirements (Refer to Course Progress Requirement Policy), and how intervention strategies are applied to students who are identified as being at risk (where applicable).

Overseas Student Health Cover

Overseas student health cover (OSHC) is insurance that provides cover on the costs for medical and hospital care which international students may need while in Australia. OSHC will also pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport.

If you are an international student studying in Australia, you must purchase an approved OSHC policy from a registered health benefits organization, commonly referred to as health funds, before applying for your visa. You will need to buy OSHC before you come to Australia, to cover you from when you arrive. You will also need to maintain OSHC throughout your stay in Australia. You can find out more about purchasing OSHC at http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/overseas+student+health+cover+faq-‐1

School-aged dependents

There are requirements for compulsory school attendance for children or dependents of international students. In Victoria, it is compulsory for children to attend school until the age of 16. The choice of schools includes public schools, private schools, and religious schools. People over the age of 16 can continue to attend school until they have completed year 12. Dependents of persons holding a student visa may be required to pay full fees in any school, Institute or university that they enroll in whilst in Australia.

Student transfer

Under the ESOS Framework, the Institute cannot enrol students seeking to transfer from another Institute before that student has completed 6 months of their principal course of study except in some circumstances. If you want to transfer before completing 6 months of your principal course, you need to ask the Institute for a release from PRISMS (Provider registration and International Student management system). The six months is calculated as six calendar months from the first day of your principal course. Your principal course is usually the final course of study you will undertake. For example, if you are studying ELICOS followed by a Diploma program, the Diploma program is your principal course. If you are considering requesting a transfer before completing 6 months of your principal course of study, please contact the Institute administration for a copy of the transfer procedure and the application form.

Students do not need a release if:

they have completed more than 6 months of their principal course
they are a government sponsored student, and their sponsor supports a transfer
their current education provider or course has ceased to be registered or a sanction has been imposed that prevents your provider from continuing to deliver your principal course

Use of personal information

Information is collected during your enrolment in order to meet the Institute obligations under the ESOS Act and the National Code 2018 to ensure student compliance with the conditions of their visas and their obligations under Australian Immigration laws generally. The authority to collect this information is contained in the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000, the Education Services for Overseas Students Regulations 2001 and the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018. Information collected about you during your enrolment can be provided, in certain circumstances, to the Australian Government and designated authorities and, if relevant, the Tuition Assurance Scheme and the ESOS Assurance Fund Manager. In other instances, information collected during your enrolment can be disclosed without your consent where authorised or required by law.

It is a requirement of the Australian Quality Training Framework that students can access personal information held by the Institute and may request corrections to information that is incorrect or out of date. Please apply in writing to the Administration Manager if you wish to view your own records.

Qualification Entry Requirements

ABCI provides training and assessment for a number of technical courses ensuring that students are provided with Australian qualifications recognised both locally and internationally.

All students must be of the age of 18 years or over at the time of applying for admission at Australian Business & Culinary Institute.
Refer to specific course information for entry requirements.

Entry Review Process

ABCI conducts a thorough review process prior to accepting enrolments in order to ensure that you as the student meet all entry requirements and are able to successfully progress through your course and have a successful career path in your chosen discipline.

Students are required to undergo a pre-training interview. This identifies how the course will meet your needs, ascertain how suitable and appropriate the qualification is to you, identify your career goals, as well as explore if the proposed qualification will help you to achieve your goals.

You will be required to complete your Enrolment Pack for your application and participate in a Pre –Training Review.

During your pre-training review, you will cover the following:

Description of the course, including the content and duration of the course, study method, assessment method and requirements.
The requirements for acceptance into a course, including the minimum level of English Language proficiency and Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Quiz.
Student rights and responsibilities as a student.
Payment terms and conditions, including any progressive payments, any non-‐refundable payments, material fees, if applicable, and any other resources required for the course.
ABCI refund policy, prior to and after enrolment.
Outline ABCI’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT) process and eligibility to apply.
Any special learning needs that may impact the prospective student’s ability to successfully complete the course, including but not limited to, physical needs, psychological needs, learning difficulties, language deficiencies, emotional needs, financial needs, technology needs, and travel/attendance needs.
Outline the internal and external support services available to you.
The ABCI Organisational structure and overview of who to approach when specific assistance is required.
Appeals and complaints process when any issue arises, including appeals against assessment results.
Assistance that is available to use and access technology and learning resources to complete the course.

If your chosen course is not considered the best option, we will endeavor to guide you towards other courses, within or external to ABCI, or if possible, another suitable information source.

If an initial application is accepted, you will be forwarded a Letter of Offer. After payment is received along with written agreement, a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE), will be issued. Details such as course commencement, location, timetable, required resources and any other applicable information will be conveyed at this stage of the enrolment process. Once all details have been checked by the ABCI Administrative team, the application will be converted to an enrolment form and processed on the student management system.

The designated staff member will evaluate all information and documentation gathered from the application. If relevant, you may receive recommendations from the LLN assessor the Training Manager regarding the acceptance into ABCI, or you m ay be directed to another course or information source. You will be informed of the evaluation outcome.

If accepted, an orientation program will also be conducted prior to commencement of the course.

Orientation Program

Our orientation program covers a wide range of queries and questions relevant to your course:

Fees and fee refunds
English skills and study
Assessment
Recognition of prior learning credit transfer
Institute contact details
Student visa conditions
Health insurance,
Banking and tax file numbers,
Transport and travel between campuses,
Communication (e.g. internet and mobile phones)
Complaints and appeals
Student code of behavior,
Attendance requirements,
Course progress requirements,
Meeting the course requirement within the set timeframe
Keeping address and contact details up to date,
Support services for students,
Legal services for students
Emergency and health services for students
Institute facilities and resources

The purpose of the orientation session is to inform and introduce studying, Melbourne and Adelaide’s costs of living, transportation, facilities, banking and accommodation. In addition, ABCI staff will be introduced on a tour of the college.

It is essential that you attend the orientation, otherwise you may miss out on information that affects your study, your visa and your enjoyment of your stay in Australia. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

After your orientation program, please go through the list below and make sure that you can check off each item as having been done and understood. If there are any items that you cannot check off then you should contact ABCI so that these matters could be properly explained to you.

Have you:

Received a copy of the Student Handbook?
Checked your enrolment status and if required, please make relevant amendments of necessary information?
Obtained the names and contact details of key administrative staff members of the college?
Understood the terms cheating and plagiarism ?
Familiarize yourself with the key support services of ABCI?
Known the type of assessment you will receive in your course?
Understood the criteria, weighting, and submission dates of the assessments you have been set?
Understood the nature of the feedback you are likely to receive from teachers?
Understood the different assessment outcomes?
Understood the number of contact hours you have per week?
Located the toilets in the Institute?
Located the emergency exits in the Institute?
Familiarize yourself with the public transport timetable?
Understood the Institute attendance requirements?
Understood the Institute academic progress requirements?
Understood the Overseas Student Visa Requirements?
Understood work-‐based training and assessment requirements

Course Cost Payment Plan:

An initial deposit is due prior to your enrolment into the course (this is a part of the total course cost)

Tuition Fees: $1,500
Material Fees: In full
Hospitality Kit: (Where applicable)

Monthly Payment* (Due on Enrolment Day) = Total Course Cost – Initial Deposit
*Monthly Payment=Calendar payment will be due on the same date each month (i.e.‐the enrolment day of the course)

Our courses

Hospitality

Course code	Course name
SIT30821	Certificate III in Commercial Cookery (109883K)
SIT40521	Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery (109562E)
SIT50422	Diploma of Hospitality Management (113356K)
SIT60322	Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management (11351B)

Business and management

Course code	Course name
BSB50820	Diploma of Project Management (111790H)
BSB80120	Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) (111791G)

Construction and design

Course code	Course name
RII60520	Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction Design (114555F)

Information technology

Course code	Course name
ICT60220	Advanced Diploma of Information Technology (114418D)

Course Delivery

A number of approaches to course delivery are used by Institute staff. Course delivery approaches may include teacher-led classroom delivery; workshops; seminars; tutorials and supervised study. During class time, students will be expected to participate by, for example, answering questions, giving opinions, demonstrating tasks, working with others in groups, making presentations and role-playing situations.

Work Based Training (WBT)

Work based training is required for some courses. Please refer to individual courses above for specifics.

WBT is aimed at giving students a varied experience in a real-life situation, under normal commercial pressures. The learners doing this course will be doing work-based training within a course length (Refer to Delivery Schedule for more information). This will include a session for WBT Induction and another for the logbook discussion/feedback and written assessment.

Each student will complete work placement with an approved Host Employer or provide evidence of having completed the required training with their employer, if they are employed in a suitable hospitality establishment. Each learner will have tasks to be performed at work, which will be assessed by the trainer upon completion of placement.

During work-based training, students will be able to obtain practical skills and experience in real workplace settings. This will assist students to be job-ready at graduation.

Use of computing equipment

Backup Discs/Memory sticks

It is strongly recommended that students purchase a memory stick in order to save important files.

Access to Computers

Computers are available if a student wishes to do any work outside of class time. Students will need to check with the course coordinator regarding their availability and the supervision requirement.

Use of Computers

Food and drinks are not permitted in computer rooms at any time.
Students are not permitted to load or copy any software, including games, onto Institute computers.
Disciplinary action will be taken for any breach of these rules.

Use of the internet

Students may only browse the internet and use email or chat lines only for the purpose of their course related research.
Sites known to contain material which is pornographic or illegal under International, Australian or State laws should not be visited and students should be aware that site visits may be logged.

Course Assessment

Definitions:

Assessment	The process of collecting evidence and making judgments about whether competency has been achieved or learning outcomes satisfactorily completed.
Graded Assessment	Refers to the awarding of marks that contribute to the final grade of a module/unit.
Irregularity for the purposes of student examination or other legitimate assessment processes	The unauthorized use or attempted use by or for any student of any means to gain unfair advantage in any examination, test, assignment, essay or other work, the assessment of which forms part of the final assessment. It includes any action taken by a student which would constitute an unfair advantage or intentionally fraudulent attempt to demonstrate competency in an examination or assessment context which forms part of a final assessment. An irregularity includes misconduct and plagiarism.
Misconduct for the purposes of student examination or other legitimate assessment processes	An action by a student which is in breach of any legitimate directions issued by the examination supervisor or printed on the examination material or notices. This includes taking into an examination any material with the intention of using said material to obtain an unfair advantage.
Moderation	The process of establishing comparability of standards of student performance in order to ensure that assessment is valid, reliable and fair.
Plagiarism	The act of copying and inclusion of another’s work, including information downloaded from the Internet.
Validation	The act of reviewing, comparing and evaluating the assessment processes, tools and evidence contributing to judgments made by a range of assessors against the same competency standards.

A number of approaches to course assessment are used by the Institute staff. Assessment approaches may include: observation of performance in class; case studies; projects; assignments; presentations; role plays; written tests and exams; work experience or work placement.

Students will be given advance warning of the time and form of any assessment and will not be expected to sit an assessment they have not prepared for.

Students who are dissatisfied with their assessment outcome may apply for appeal for the outcome by contacting their trainer or assessor.

Students are entitled to a maximum of three assessment attempts for each assessment.

If after three assessment attempts, student’s competence is “Not Yet Competent”, they will be required to repeat the unit and pay any fees associated with repeating the unit.

Not attending for an assessment will be counted as one assessment attempt for each occurrence unless:

the student can provide a certificate from a registered medical practitioner indicating that the student was medically unable to attend the assessment; or
The student can provide independent evidence of exceptional compassionate circumstances beyond the student’s control, such as serious illness or death of a close family member to explain the non-attendance at the assessment.

Assignment:

An assignment is regarded as any work required for the assessment of competency; the due date for assignments is final. Assignments received after the due date may not be assessed.

Submission of Assignments:

Assignments are usually completed outside normal class times and time allocations are reasonable.
All assignments should be submitted using the appropriate “Assignment Cover Sheet”. Students should retain a backup copy of their assignments until the original is returned.
All assignments must be presented in word-‐processed format. All assignments will be marked on content, in relation to the performance criteria. The assignment outline may specify a presentation com potent or style of format.
All assignments are to be submitted to your teachers in scheduled class time. Assignments will not be accepted by any of the Administration staff at any time; they will only be accepted by the relevant teacher concerned.

Types of Assessment:

Case Studies	A case study is a written or verbal presentation of a situation that either did or could happen in a related area. Students are then required to solve problems or make decisions.
Presentations	Students may be required to make a presentation to the class, either as an individual or as part of a group. This usually involves research of the topic, design of the presentation and selection of appropriate presentation aids such as videos, poster, overhead transparencies, etc. A written submission may be required to support the presentation.
Tests	Students may be required to complete a written test. This may consist of short answer questions, multiple choice, open ended essay, sentence completion, structured essay, true and false questions, or matching pairs questions.
In Class activities/ exercises	Students may be assessed by way of an in class exercise and/or experiential activity during a class.

Assessment Guidelines:

Refer to Assessment task guidelines

Irregularity for the purposes of student examination or other legitimate assessment processes:

The unauthorised use or attempted use by or for any student of any means to gain unfair advantage in any examination, test, assignment, essay or other work, the assessment of which forms part of the final assessment. It includes any action taken by a student which would constitute an unfair advantage or intentionally fraudulent attempt to demonstrate competency in an examination or assessment context which forms part of a final assessment. An irregularity includes misconduct and plagiarism.

Course Assessment Policy

During all parts of the assessment process the academic standards and integrity of the Institute will be maintained and safeguarded, and the principles of natural justice will be followed in all proceedings.

Assessments will be planned, conducted and validated by appropriately qualified staff.

Teachers shall inform students of the requirements for assessments and will ensure that they have every opportunity, consistent with the policy and procedures, to complete all assessments for a module/competency.

Assessment:

Assessment of all the courses are competency based and to achieve the qualification, the student must be competent in all the units to be included in the qualification.

Conducting Assessments:

All the assessments/re-assessments need to be conducted as per “assessment of competencies policy” which provided the detailed information about the system to be used for conducting assessments.

Outcome:

Assessment satisfactorily completed = S

Assessment not satisfactorily completed = NS

Assessment not submitted = NC

Final result:

If all assessments of the unit is satisfactorily completed = C (Competent)

If any assessment of the unit is not satisfactorily completed = NYC (Not Yet Competent)

Complaint and Appeal:

Studenthavearighttoappealsagainstassessment/re-‐assessment/CT/RPL outcome, the essential nature of an appeal is that it is a request by a student to reconsider a decision made by the institute. The detailed information about complaint and appeal is mentioned in “complaint and appeal policy”

Plagiarism and Cheating:

Academic integrity is an essential component of teaching and learning. All cases of cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable and must be reported to the Training Manager. Please refer to the Plagiarism and Cheating policy for further details.

Re-assessment:

Students who receive an ‘NYC’ may re-submit the assessment twice free of charge. Please refer to the re-assessment policy for further details.

Student Academic records:

Students wishing to access their own records anytime, must put the request in writing to the administration Manager using the “Letter Request Form” available at reception. This request will be process within 14 working days.

Breaches of Copyright

Unauthorized use of software images or files is a breach of copyright and is regarded as a serious matter by the Institute.
It is against Institute policy for students to copy or reproduce any licensed software on the Institute computing equipment.
Students who abuse the use of computer software images or files will be held legally accountable.

Non-compliance with Institute policy on computer usage (may result in any of the following):

Suspension of computing privileges
A disciplinary review which may include suspension or expulsion from the Institute
Legal action

Access and Equity Policy

The Australian Business & Culinary Institute Code of Practice includes an access and equity policy. This document is available on request. It is the responsibility of all staff to ensure the requirements of the access and equity policy are met at all times.

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a reference number made up of numbers and letters that create a lifetime record for an individual of all the nationally recognized training that has been completed. Under the Unique Student Identifiers Act 2014, all RTOs in Australia must ensure they have a valid USI for any student that enrolls in nationally recognized training from 2015.

This means (unless you have an exemption issued by the USI registrar) that as a student you must either:

Provide ABCI with your USI, or
Provide ABCI with permission to access or create your USI on your behalf.

For information about exemptions for individuals, please review this webpage: https://www.usi.gov.au/training-‐organisations/training-‐organisation-‐requirements/exemptions-‐individuals/how-‐apply

You are required to fill in the Valid Form of identification if institute is applying USI on your behalf.

The ID that you provide for this purpose will be destroyed once we have used it for this purpose.

If you would like to create your own USI, please visit: http://www.usi.gov.au/Students/Pages/default.aspx

Qualifications to be issued

Students completing all assessment requirements for a qualification will be awarded a certificate corresponding to the completed course. Students completing assessment requirements for part of a qualification will be awarded a Statement of Attainment indicating which modules or units of competency they have completed.

Credit transfer

Credit transfer applies to situation where students have completed units identical to those they are currently enrolled for at another provider. Credit will be granted in accordance with the Credit Transfer Procedure. To apply for credit transfer, students must complete the credit transfer application form and attach copies of verified documents to support the application.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process designed to recognise previous formal or informal learning, work and life experiences that the student may have had to the extent that they are relevant to the course outcomes. The RPL process allows students to receive recognition under these circumstances and therefore enable them to focus more on areas they need to achieve competencies in order to gain their qualifications. Students who believe they already have some of the competencies in the course may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). An essential requirement of RPL is that you can prove that you currently have the required competencies.

For more details refer to RPL Policy.

Fees and Charges Policy

Australian Business & Culinary Institute will charge a range of fees and charges for programs and courses.

Enrolment

The student shall pay the Fees as outlined in the Letter of Offer & Written Agreement

Fee Payment

1. 1. Students must pay course fees, application fee and OSHC to secure their enrolment with Institute.
  2. Students will pay the same fee at time of enrolment until completion of the same course. However re-scheduling of any course or subject may incur fee increases.
  3. Enrolment in a new course will incur any new fees charged.
  4. Tuition fees will not be transferred to another educational institution.
  5. Application fee, accommodation placement and airport pickup fees are non-refundable.
  6. An initial deposit payable on enrolment as mentioned in the Letter of Offer.
  7. Balance of fees is to be paid on an installment program outlined in Payment plan
  8. Late payment of Fees will incur a penalty on the fee installment owed to Institute as referred in the Payment Agreement.
  9. Institute may restrict or withhold services or materials from the student if fees are overdue.
  10. Fees paid by credit card will incur a further charge of 3% as a surcharge.
  11. A late payment fee of AUD 50.00 for every 7 days will be charged if fee paid after the due date as indicated on the student’s payment plan.

Course Abandonment

1. 1. In the event a student abandons the course, all fees due are payable to Institute upon demand.
  2. International students are not allowed by Government regulations to transfer to other institutes prior to completing the first six months of their principal course.

Course Deferral, Suspension or Cancellation

1. 1. Institute may defer, suspend or cancel a student’s enrolment in accordance with Deferral, Suspension & Cancellation Policy.
  2. Institute may at its discretion defer the commencement date, cancel or vary a course prior to course commencement. In the event of deferral or cancellation before course Commencement Institute will refund fees in accordance with the ESOS Act Section 27 and the student agrees that there shall be no further entitlement to damages whatsoever.
  3. Upon suspension of enrolment, the fees remain due on the scheduled dates according to the Payment Agreement
  4. Regarding cancellation of a student’s enrolment during the course refer to the Institute Refund Policy.

Tuition Fee Protection

Institute assures the security of student fees through its compliance with the requirements of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS).

Recognition of Prior Learning & Obligations to Recognise AQF Qualifications

Institute will ensure that a student’s prior knowledge and skills are recognized; providing they are able to demonstrate satisfactory achievement of the performance outcomes within that course requirement (refer to Institute Credit Transfer & RPL Policy).

Recommencement of Course

Students who have left studies at Institute for any reason and return after being away for 10 weeks or more to continue their studies will be charged a recommencement fee of $200.

Course Materials

1. 1. Course fees include the cost of resource materials, equipment, and tools required for specific courses.
  2. Additional fees for the cost of materials, additional equipment or other resources necessary to successfully complete a course will be charged.

Hospitality Course Requirements

Course fees do not include the cost of Hospitality Course Uniform, Toolkit & Shoes required for all Hospitality students which include practical observation in the commercial kitchen or Work Based Training.

Student chef uniform: $ 110

Chef jacket with white removable stud buttons
Trouser Black & White checked Yarn Dyed easy fit
White Apron
White Necktie
White Skullcap

Tool Kit: $ 210

Tool cover
Chef’s knife200mm(Sharplex)
Flexible Boning Knife 150mm(Sharplex)
Paring Knife 100m(Victorinox)
Vegetable peeler(Victorinox)
Sharpening Steel 250mm(Sharplex)
Set of star Nozzles(Tomkin)
Bread Knife(Sharplex)
Turning Knife(Sharplex)
Filleting Knife
Spatula
Dough Scraper Plastic
Tong
Whisk
Piping Bag
Wooden spoon

Safety Shoes with Steel Cap:$55

Additional Charges

1. Course fees do not include cost of any additional documents required for specific reasons. See charges below for additional documents:

Re-issue of Student ID Card $10 Re-issue of certificates and transcript $50

Re-enrolment per unit $300

Other Fees:

Application Fee (not refundable) $250

Airport Pickup $150

Home Stay Fee Depends on specific arrangements

Refund Policy

PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to outline the system used for ensuring students meet the behaviour requirements of the Australian Business & Culinary Institute. The purpose of this policy is to set out the circumstances under which students may claim a refund and the associated procedures for handling refunds.

RESPONSIBILITY
1. The Administration Manager is responsible for reviewing the refund requests and processing them.
PROCEDURE
1. Refund application requests must be made in writing on the student refund request form provided at Australian Business & Culinary Institute, or alternatively, the refund request form may be downloaded from the website (www.ABCI.edu.au) or requested via email from info@abcinstitute.edu.au.
2. Filled in form must be submitted with the administration department.
3. The Administration Manager will process and approve the refund amount (if applicable) based on the circumstances listed below.
4. Refund will be made directly to the account stated in the refund request form and the student will be informed about the same via an email.
5. If the student is not eligible for any refund, based on the circumstances as stated below, the student shall be informed of the same via an email.
6. Any refund given will be recorded in the Australian Business & Culinary Institute Student Information System (VETTRAK) so that each student’s financial status is known.

FEE REFUND CONDITION

REFUND APPLICABLE

This applies to all students at Australian Business & Culinary Institute.

In the unlikely event that the Institute is unable to deliver your course in full, you will be offered a refund of any Tuition Fee paid in advance for the default course. The refund amount will be calculated as follows:

The refund amount = weekly tuition fee x the number of weeks in the default period
The weekly tuition fee = total tuition fee for the course / number of calendar days in the course x 7. This amount is rounded up to the nearest whole dollar.
The number of weeks in the default period = number of calendar days from the default day to the end of the period to which the payment relates / 7

The refund will be paid to you within 2 weeks of the day on which the course ceased being provided. Alternatively, you may be offered enrolment in an alternative course by the Australian Business & Culinary Institute at no extra cost. You have the right to choose whether you would prefer a refund of course fees, or to accept a place at another institute. If you choose placement in another course, we will ask you to sign a document to indicate that you accept the placement. If the Institute is unable to provide a refund or place you in an alternative course the Tuition Protection Service will be responsible for providing refunds or providing assistance to locate an alternative. However, students are primarily responsible for finding another provider/institute which will accept them into an alternative course.

REFUND PROCEDURES:

The student will need to supply in writing to the Australian Business & Culinary Institute the nominated method of re-imbursement.
The money will be refunded to the student within 14 days after the written request is received.

VISA REFUSED PRIOR TO COURSE COMMENCEMENT

In the event where student’s initial visa is not granted.

In the event that the student’s visa has been refused, the refund amount shall be calculated as follows under Section 9 of the refund specifications:

The refund amount = the total course fee minus 5% of the course fee received up to a maximum of $500
The total course fee also includes any non-tuition fee paid.

REFUND PROCEDURES:

A written request for refund and proof of visa refusal from the Australian Government must be sent to the Institute no later than four weeks after visa refusal.

VISA REFUSED PRIOR TO COURSE COMMENCEMENT

In the event where a student enrols in a Package Program and the first course has commenced and the student visa is refused before the commencement of second course.

The refund amount will be calculated for the student for the commenced course as follows:

The refund amount = weekly tuition fee x the number of weeks in the default period

Where:

The weekly tuition fee = total tuition fee for the course / number of calendar days in the course x 7. This amount is rounded up to the nearest whole dollar.
The number of weeks in the default period = number of calendar days from the default day to the end of the period to which the payment relates / 7

If the student has paid any tuition fee for the second course, the refund will be calculated as:

The refund amount = the total course fee minus 5% of the course fee received up to a maximum of $500

REFUND PROCEDURES:

A written request for refund and proof of visa refusal from the Australian Government must be sent to the Australian Business & Culinary Institute no later than four weeks after visa refusal.

VISA REFUSED PRIOR TO COURSE COMMENCEMENT

No proof of refusal from the Australian Government.

Refund will not be granted.

VISA REFUSED AFTER COMMENCEMENT DATE

In the event that a student’s Visa is not granted and the course has commenced.

The refund amount = weekly tuition fee x the number of weeks in the default period

The weekly tuition fee = total tuition fee for the course / number of calendar days in the course x 7. This amount is rounded up to the nearest whole dollar.
The number of weeks in the default period = number of calendar days from the default day to the end of the period to which the payment relates / 7

The tuition fee does not include any non-tuition fees that might have been paid by the student.

CANCELLATION BEFORE COMMENCEMENT DATE

In the event that the student cancels their enrolment and requests a refund in writing, a minimum of 10 weeks in advance to the course commencement.

A 70% refund of monies paid for tuition fees will be issued to the student.

CANCELLATION BEFORE COMMENCEMENT DATE

In the event that the student requests a refund in writing 6 weeks up to 9 full weeks prior to the course commencement.

A refund of 50% of monies paid for the tuition fees will be issued to the student.

CANCELLATION BEFORE COMMENCEMENT DATE

In the event the student requests a refund in writing 5 full weeks or less prior to course commencement.

No refund will be issued.

CANCELLATION BEFORE COMMENCEMENT DATE

If a student requests to defer to any following intake/s before the commencement of the course initially applied for due to personal reasons.

There will be no refund of monies paid towards initial deposit.