Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 089594M) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This nationally recognised qualification (CHC53315) equips students with the skills to support individuals with mental health issues, work in community services, and pursue careers as mental health support workers or peer workers. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03222F), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The program includes a work-integrated learning component, giving you practical experience in real healthcare settings. Whether you aim to further your studies or enter the workforce, this diploma offers a pathway into Australia's growing mental health sector.
This Diploma falls under the field of Education: Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599). The curriculum covers mental health assessment, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, promoting recovery, and working with diverse populations. Students learn to apply legal and ethical frameworks, collaborate with other services, and develop self-care strategies. While specific unit names vary, typical topics include establish and manage client relationships, work legally and ethically, assess and promote social, emotional, and physical wellbeing, and provide recovery-oriented mental health services. The course prepares graduates to support clients with complex needs, emphasising practical, person-centred approaches. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it builds on foundational knowledge and is ideal for those seeking advanced roles in the community services sector.
The Diploma of Mental Health is scheduled over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is conducted in English, with full-time study expected. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes, complete assessments, and participate in a mandatory work placement. The course is designed for international students on a student visa (Subclass 500), requiring at least 20 scheduled contact hours per week. Delivery locations include Blacktown, Lithgow, and Surry Hills in New South Wales. The provider may offer flexible delivery options—check with Australian Health and Science Institute for current timetables.
Indicative tuition fee for the full program is A$28,000, with no non-tuition fees listed, giving an estimated total of A$28,000. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at http://www.ahsi.edu.au. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,000–A$30,000 per year depending on location), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710). ESOS Act protections ensure you receive the course as advertised if you are enrolled. For a full breakdown, contact the institution.
Australian Health and Science Institute typically requires international students to have an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). You also need to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and meet any prerequisite or prior study expectations for a Diploma level. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV in Mental Health. Foundation or pathway options may be available—contact the provider for details. Always check specific entry requirements on the provider's website, as they can change. English language waivers may apply for applicants from certain countries. Remember, meeting the minimum English requirement does not guarantee entry; the final decision rests with the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement, typically in mental health support services, community centres, or clinical settings. Students gain supervised, hands-on experience, applying theoretical knowledge to real client interactions. Placements develop skills in case management, crisis support, and team collaboration. The exact nature of the placement depends on availability and location. This practical component is a valuable part of the Diploma, enhancing employability and confidence. Ensure you have necessary clearances (e.g., police check) before placement.
The Diploma of Mental Health is delivered at three campuses: Blacktown, Lithgow, and Surry Hills, all in New South Wales. Blacktown is a growing western Sydney suburb with a large multicultural community, excellent transport links via train and buses. Lithgow is a regional city in the Blue Mountains, offering a quieter study environment and lower living costs. Surry Hills is an inner-city Sydney suburb near Central Station, surrounded by cafes and cultural hubs. New South Wales is home to over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs vary: Sydney (includes Surry Hills) weekly rent approx. A$250–A$500, Lithgow A$150–A$300, Blacktown A$200–A$400. Public transport connects all locations.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress, hold OSHC for the duration of your stay, and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Financial capacity evidence is required: tuition fees, living costs of at least A$21,041 per year, and OSHC. Dependent family members may accompany you on a Student Dependent visa. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Diploma of Mental Health at Australian Health and Science Institute is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Mental Health), and location (NSW). Confirm the provider's CRICOS registration (03222F) and course code (089594M). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application online via the provider's website. You'll need to provide academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and meet all entry requirements. Check application deadlines (typically rolling intake). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once accepted, pay the required deposit, receive your CoE, and lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and sufficient funds.
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Diploma of Mental Health is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd. 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.