Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 085209B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in accounting principles, financial reporting, and business analytics. As a CRICOS-registered course under provider code 00103D, it meets Australian quality standards and is available through multiple campuses across Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. Whether you're aiming for a career in accounting or pursuing professional accreditation, this program provides a pathway to further study or employment in Australia's competitive financial sector. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, drawing directly from the official CRICOS register to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 085209B) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 080101 - Accounting, within the broader Management and Commerce discipline. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it equips students with advanced skills in accounting practices, taxation law, auditing, and financial management. The program is offered at multiple Australian locations including Ballarat, Churchill, Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide, providing flexibility for international students. Federation University Australia, a government-owned institution with CRICOS code 00103D, has been a trusted provider for international education since 1870. According to the CRICOS register (April 2026), Australia has 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses — this course is one of many regulated by the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections.
The Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting focuses on core areas of professional accounting, including financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law. Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to the Australian accounting context. While specific units may vary, graduates typically gain a comprehensive understanding of accounting standards, corporate finance, and ethical decision-making. The program prepares students for roles such as accountants, auditors, financial analysts, or tax consultants. It also provides a pathway to professional recognition, including eligibility for bodies like CPA Australia or CA ANZ, subject to additional requirements. Note: This description is a general guide; for precise syllabus details, refer to Federation University Australia's official website.
The course duration is 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a standard full-time program delivered in English. All classes are conducted in person at the specified campuses. The course is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students should plan for a study load of approximately 40 weeks per year, with breaks aligning with academic calendars. Language of instruction is English, and international students must meet the English language requirements outlined below.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and set by Federation University Australia. The CRICOS register lists tuition at A$51,750 for the full program, with non-tuition fees of A$905 (which may include materials, library access, or student services). The estimated total is A$52,655. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. For the most current fee schedule, always check the provider's website: www.federation.edu.au. Costs in Australia vary by city; for example, weekly rent in Melbourne averages $250–$450, while Adelaide is more affordable at $200–$350. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting for living expenses of around $21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs estimate).
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). A completed bachelor's degree in any discipline is normally required for admission to a Graduate Diploma. Some providers may accept relevant work experience or pathway programs. Foundation or pathway options are available through Federation University's partner colleges — refer to the provider for specific articulation pathways. Always verify entry requirements directly with the institution and consult a registered migration agent for visa-related questions. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; we recommend visiting the Department of Home Affairs or consulting a MARA agent.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake a professional placement or internship as part of the program. However, as a Student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work right helps support living costs but should not be relied upon for tuition. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses like this one are covered by ESOS protections, ensuring your rights as an international student in Australia.
Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting is delivered at six locations: Federation University Ballarat (BALLARAT, VIC), Federation University Gippsland (Churchill, VIC), Federation University Melbourne (MELBOURNE, VIC), Federation University Sydney (Sydney, NSW), International Institute of Business and Information Technology (IIBIT Adelaide) (Adelaide, SA), and Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT Sydney) (Sydney, NSW). Ballarat and Churchill are regional Victorian cities with lower cost of living, while Melbourne and Sydney are major urban centres with large international student populations. Adelaide offers a more affordable lifestyle with a growing education sector. Public transport varies: Melbourne and Sydney have extensive train and bus networks, while Ballarat has a regional bus service. Choose a location that aligns with your budget and lifestyle preferences.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa requires you to maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As of the latest regulations, student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity requirements include tuition, living costs, and travel. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions and consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agency, but we provide free resources to help you navigate the process.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting at Federation University Australia:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Accounting), and city. Federation University Australia is CRICOS provider 00103D.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Federation University's website to review specific entry requirements, English language tests accepted (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), application deadlines, and submit your application through their online portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the institution issues a CoE, which is required for your visa application. Prepare your GTE statement, OSHC, and financial evidence, then lodge your visa application via ImmiAccount.
Victoria, home to Federation University's main campuses, offers a vibrant international student community with over 250,000 students across its institutions. Melbourne, a global city, has excellent public transport, diverse culture, and strong job markets for accounting graduates. Regional Ballarat and Churchill provide a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with access to natural attractions. Living costs in Melbourne are higher (average rent $400/week), while Ballarat is cheaper (around $250/week). Consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and proximity to professional networks when choosing your study destination. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, you have plenty of options — but ensure your chosen provider and course are CRICOS-registered for visa eligibility and ESOS protections.
Ready to apply? Visit Federation University Australia's website to begin your application for the Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting (CRICOS 085209B).
Graduate Diploma of Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.