Diploma of Counselling (CRICOS course code 090797A) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is designed for individuals who wish to develop the skills and knowledge required to work as a counsellor in a variety of settings. The course falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services – Counselling, at AQF Level 5. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required to enrol international students under the Australian Government’s ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course details, fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways – all data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you are planning to study in New South Wales or exploring counselling careers in Australia, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
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The Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015) is a vocational qualification that prepares graduates for professional counselling roles. The course covers core counselling skills, ethical practice, legal frameworks, and specialised areas such as relationships, grief, trauma, and substance use. Students learn to conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and support clients from diverse backgrounds. The field of education – 090513 Counselling – emphasises human welfare and community services. Graduates typically find employment in community health centres, youth services, private practice, or further study in bachelor programs. The course is delivered in English over 78 weeks, with a mix of theoretical and practical learning. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the content adheres to national training standards and quality assurance requirements.
This course runs for 1 year 6 months, equivalent to approximately 78 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification – not a dual or packaged program – and does not include a foundation studies component. The full-time study load is typical for international students seeking a student visa (Subclass 500). Students should plan their schedule accordingly, with lectures, tutorials, and self-directed study. The course is offered at three campuses in New South Wales: Blacktown, Lithgow, and Surry Hills. Each location provides access to learning facilities and support services. The duration may be affected by holidays and breaks as per the provider's academic calendar.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Counselling at Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd is A$17,000 for the entire course duration. The CRICOS register shows no mandatory non-tuition fees (A$0), but this does not include other costs such as textbooks, materials, or equipment. The estimated total shown is A$17,000. Importantly, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approximately A$600–$800 per year for single cover), living costs (around A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and visa fees (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm the current fees directly with the provider at their website (http://www.ahsi.edu.au) as they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays these fees as indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students applying for the Diploma of Counselling must meet English language proficiency standards. An IELTS score between 5.5 and 6.0 overall is generally required, or equivalent in other recognised tests like TOEFL or PTE. Applicants should also have completed the equivalent of Australian Year 12 or a relevant vocational qualification. Some providers may require a Certificate IV in a related field or relevant work experience. Since this course is at AQF Level 5, prior academic achievement is expected. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – contact the provider for specific options. Note that meeting academic and English requirements does not guarantee a visa; all student visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. For precise entry requirements, refer to Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd at http://www.ahsi.edu.au.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work must not interfere with course attendance. The absence of a work component means the course focuses on classroom-based learning, though some providers may offer optional placement opportunities. Always check with the institution about any voluntary work placements.
The Diploma of Counselling is delivered at three campuses in New South Wales: - Blacktown - NSW: Located in the City of Blacktown, a major suburban centre in Western Sydney. Blacktown has a large student population and is well-served by public transport (trains and buses). The area offers affordable living options compared to the Sydney CBD, with weekly rent ranging from A$200–$350 for shared accommodation. - Lithgow Campus – LITHGOW, NSW: Situated in the Blue Mountains region, Lithgow is a smaller regional city with a lower cost of living. It is about 2 hours west of Sydney by train. This campus may appeal to students seeking a quieter study environment. - Surry Hills – Surry Hills, NSW: Located in inner-city Sydney, close to the CBD. Surry Hills is a vibrant neighbourhood with excellent transport links, cafes, and cultural venues. Living costs are higher, with weekly rent typically A$350–$500 for a room in a shared apartment. All campuses are CRICOS-registered delivery sites. When choosing a location, consider lifestyle preferences, commuting options, and living expenses.
International students enrolled in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. The visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The visa application requires evidence of financial capacity, English proficiency, and a genuine intention to stay temporarily (GTE criterion). The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application carefully. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For personalised guidance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. The ESOS Act protects international students' rights, including tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Counselling (090797A) at Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Counselling), and location (NSW). Confirm that Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03222F) is currently registered for this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact the provider at http://www.ahsi.edu.au or through their admissions office. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Check the application deadlines and any specific entry requirements. The provider will assess your eligibility. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, the institution issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC proof, financial documents, and GTE statement. Once the visa is granted, you can plan your travel and study in Australia.
New South Wales is Australia’s most populous state, with over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Sydney, the capital, is a global city with diverse job opportunities and cultural attractions. For counselling students, NSW has a strong community services sector, with roles in health, education, and non-profit organisations. Regional campuses like Lithgow offer a more affordable lifestyle and close-knit community. Consider your preferences: urban versus rural, cost of living, and proximity to industry networks. HeadStart Academy helps you compare locations and providers to find the best fit.
Ready to start your counselling career? Visit Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd at http://www.ahsi.edu.au for application details. For more guidance, explore HeadStart Academy's resources on student visas and course comparisons.
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Diploma of Counselling 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.