Certificate IV in Disability (CRICOS course code 090557F) is a Certificate IV delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This nationally recognised VET qualification (AQF Level 4, CHC43115) equips students with the skills to support individuals with disabilities in a range of community and residential settings. Graduates learn to develop person-centred care plans, implement support strategies, and promote independence. The course includes a work component of 8 weeks (160 hours) to provide practical experience. Southern Cross Education Institute is a CRICOS-registered private provider (02934D), ensuring international students receive ESOS Act protections. As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, this page uses data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 — your trust signal for accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you're planning to study in Adelaide or Melbourne, this course opens pathways to a rewarding career in disability services.
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Certificate IV in Disability falls under the field of Education 090509 — Care for the Disabled, within the broader Society and Culture category. At this AQF Level 4, students gain specialised knowledge and practical skills to work effectively with people with disabilities, their families, and carers. Typical learning outcomes include understanding legal and ethical frameworks, implementing individualised support plans, facilitating community participation, and managing complex support needs. Students also develop communication strategies, risk assessment skills, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams. The curriculum aligns with the Disability Services Standards and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) practice standards, preparing graduates for roles such as disability support worker, residential care officer, or community program coordinator. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with Southern Cross Education Institute, the course provides a comprehensive foundation for those entering the disability sector in Australia.
This course is delivered over 56 weeks (1 year 1 month) on a full-time basis. All instruction is in English, and the qualification is a single (not dual) award. The course includes a supervised work component of 8 weeks, requiring approximately 20 hours per week (160 hours total), which forms an integral part of the learning experience. Students should expect a mix of classroom-based theory and practical placement in disability service settings. The 56-week duration allows for both academic study and industry placement, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Southern Cross Education Institute delivers this course in multiple locations, so students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Disability is A$9,000, with no mandatory non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$9,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution — they are subject to change. You must confirm current fees directly with Southern Cross Education Institute by visiting their website at www.scei.com.au. Additional costs not included in the indicative total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is compulsory for international students (typically A$500–A$700 per year), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Living costs vary by city: in Adelaide, average weekly rent is around A$350, groceries A$100, and public transport A$40; in Melbourne, rent averages A$500 per week, groceries A$100, and transport A$50. These are estimates only; actual expenses depend on individual lifestyle.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent English language test result) for entry to Certificate IV level courses. Prior academic requirements generally include completion of a Certificate III in a related field or equivalent qualification, or relevant work experience. Southern Cross Education Institute may offer foundation or pathway options for students who do not meet the standard entry requirements — you should contact the provider directly for details. All applicants must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and meet the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity requirements. Remember, entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary; always check the latest criteria on the provider's website. For personalised advice, consult a registered education agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (160 hours total), typically undertaken as an industry placement at a disability service provider. During this placement, students apply classroom learning in real-world settings, supporting individuals with disabilities under supervision. This practical experience is invaluable for developing confidence, communication skills, and industry-specific competencies. Placement hours are scheduled at approximately 20 hours per week, allowing students to balance study and work. International students should ensure their placement does not exceed allowable work hours under their visa conditions. The work component is an assessed part of the course, contributing to the overall qualification. Southern Cross Education Institute coordinates placement opportunities, but students may need to meet specific site requirements (e.g., police check or vaccination).
This course is delivered 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). Adelaide is a capital city with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, known for its affordable living costs and safe community. The Adelaide campus is centrally located, close to public transport. Melbourne, Australia's largest student city, boasts more than 600 CRICOS providers and a vibrant multicultural lifestyle. The North Melbourne and West Melbourne campuses are well-served by trams and trains. Both cities offer excellent student support services, part-time job opportunities, and cultural experiences. Choosing where to study depends on personal preference — Adelaide offers lower living costs, while Melbourne provides a bustling metropolitan environment. Each campus provides the same course content under the same CRICOS registration.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend at least 80% of contact hours, and make satisfactory academic progress. To apply, you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern Cross Education Institute, evidence of English proficiency, financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. All international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, which ensures quality education and consumer rights. For visa advice, always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Disability at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register (or HeadStart Academy) to verify that this course (090557F) and provider (02934D) are registered. Compare courses by level, field (090509), and location (Adelaide or Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Southern Cross Education Institute online or via their admissions office. You'll need to meet entry requirements (IELTS 5.0–5.5, prior qualifications) and provide documents such as academic transcripts, passport, and English test results. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the institution issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge and arranging OSHC. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for visa assistance, contact a MARA-registered agent.
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Certificate IV in Disability 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.