Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 090551A) is a Certificate III delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 44 weeks (~10 months). This qualification, with VET national code CHC33015, is designed for international students who want to pursue a career in aged care, disability support, or home and community care. Graduates gain the skills to provide person-centred support to the elderly or people with disabilities. The course includes a work component of 8 weeks (160 hours) in an industry placement, ensuring hands-on experience. Indicative tuition is A$6,000, with no additional non-tuition fees. Delivery locations span Adelaide and Melbourne, making it accessible across Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (090551A) at Southern Cross Education Institute (CRICOS 02934D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students.
This course belongs to the field of education 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, specifically Care for the Aged (090507). Students learn to provide individualised support in aged care, home care, and community settings. Core units cover personal care, communication, legal and ethical considerations, and supporting independence. Graduates typically find roles as personal care assistants, support workers, or care workers in residential aged care facilities or home care services. The training emphasises practical skills and empathy, preparing students for the growing demand in Australia's aged care sector, which is projected to need thousands of new workers annually.
The Certificate III in Individual Support runs for 44 weeks (~10 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component — it is a single Certificate III qualification. The course is designed for full-time on-campus study, combining classroom learning with practical placements.
Indicative tuition fee: A$6,000. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$6,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge are not included. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.scei.com.au. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Melbourne — indicative weekly rent is around A$200-300 in Adelaide and A$250-400 in Melbourne, with groceries and transport adding A$150-300 per week.
Minimum English proficiency: IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Year 10 or equivalent is typically required, though the provider may assess on a case-by-case basis. No foundation or pathway programs are offered for this course — contact Southern Cross Education Institute directly for specific entry requirements.
Yes, this course includes a work-integrated learning component: 8 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This industry placement typically takes place in aged care facilities or community care settings, allowing students to apply their skills under supervision. It is a mandatory part of the qualification and provides valuable Australian work experience.
Southern Cross Education Institute delivers this course at four campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide (SA); 155-161 Boundary Road, North Melbourne (VIC); 41 Boundary Road, North Melbourne (VIC); and 52-56 Chetwynd St, West Melbourne (VIC). Both Adelaide and Melbourne are major student cities — Adelaide is home to around 40 CRICOS-registered providers and has a lower cost of living, while Melbourne has over 150 providers and excellent public transport. All campuses are accessible by train, tram, or bus.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) for this course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for fees, living costs, and family, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including tuition protection and refund policies.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Human Welfare Studies), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to Southern Cross Education Institute: meet entry requirements (IELTS, academic transcripts), submit application before deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your career in aged care? Apply now at Southern Cross Education Institute and take the first step toward your Certificate III in Individual Support.
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Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education 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.