Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (CRICOS course code 0100777) is a Diploma delivered by Bendigo Kangan Institute over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification, with VET national code MST50119, falls under the field of Fashion Design (100505). It is ideal for international students seeking a career in fashion design, merchandising, or product development. The course is delivered across three locations in Victoria: Bendigo, Broadmeadows, and Richmond, offering flexibility for students. All institutions and courses on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet Australian Government standards for international education. As a free resource, we help you compare courses and providers using official CRICOS data from April 2026. Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to all listed institutions, safeguarding your tuition and student rights.
Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (CRICOS course code 0100777) is a Diploma delivered by Bendigo Kangan Institute over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge in fashion design, garment construction, textile selection, merchandising, and fashion business. Graduates typically pursue roles as fashion designers, product developers, or merchandisers. Bendigo Kangan Institute is a government-owned TAFE with CRICOS registration 01218G, providing international students with a trusted pathway to the Australian fashion industry. The course is single qualification, with no dual or foundation studies, and is taught in English.
As a Diploma in Fashion Design (Field of Education 100505), this course covers creative design processes, pattern making, sewing techniques, fashion illustration, trend analysis, and retail merchandising. Students also learn about sustainable fashion practices, branding, and marketing. While specific units may vary, graduates gain competencies to design and produce fashion collections, manage production workflows, and present creative work professionally. The curriculum balances technical skills with creative expression, preparing students for the dynamic fashion industry in Australia and globally.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Students study full-time, typically with a combination of classroom learning, studio work, and industry projects. The 78-week duration includes both contact hours and self-directed study.
Tuition fee: A$35,000. Non-tuition fee: A$0. Estimated total cost: A$35,000. Please note: This is indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge are not included. For current fees, visit the provider's website at www.kangan.edu.au. The estimated total does not include additional costs such as materials or equipment, which may apply.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: Completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate IV in a related field. Some prior study in fashion or design may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway options: If you do not meet entry requirements, contact Bendigo Kangan Institute for available pathway programs. Always confirm specific requirements with the provider before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at three campuses in Victoria: Bendigo (BENDIGO, VIC), Broadmeadows Campus (Broadmeadows, VIC), and Richmond (Richmond, VIC). Bendigo is a regional city with a lower cost of living compared to Melbourne – indicative weekly rent A$200–280, groceries A$80–120. Broadmeadows is a northern suburb of Melbourne with good public transport (train to city in 30 minutes); weekly rent A$250–350. Richmond is an inner Melbourne suburb near the city centre, with weekly rent A$300–500. All campuses are accessible via public transport. Victoria has over 180 CRICOS-registered providers, offering international students a wide choice of study environments.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year for living expenses from 1 October 2024), and travel. As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Ensure you understand visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising at Bendigo Kangan Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Bendigo Kangan Institute's website (www.kangan.edu.au), check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Victoria is a hub for fashion and design in Australia, with Melbourne known for its vibrant creative industries, annual fashion festivals, and numerous textile and garment manufacturers. The state hosts over 180 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a dynamic environment for international students. Cost of living varies: Bendigo is more affordable (indicative weekly rent A$200–280), while Melbourne suburbs range from A$250–500 per week. Public transport is extensive, with trains, trams, and buses connecting all campuses. For fashion students, access to industry events, internships, and networking opportunities is excellent. Consider your budget and preferred lifestyle when choosing a location.
Start your fashion design journey in Australia. Compare more fashion courses at headstartacademy.com.au.
Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bendigo Kangan Institute. 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.