Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (CRICOS 091830G)

Course Overview

This nationally accredited course (HLT33115) prepares students for roles such as Assistant in Nursing (AIN) or Health Services Assistant. Education Training & Employment Australia Pty. Ltd. (ETEA) has been a CRICOS-registered private provider since 2006, offering vocational courses across multiple states. The Certificate III level corresponds to AQF Level 3, typically requiring completion of Year 10 or equivalent. International students will benefit from a supportive learning environment and structured workplace learning. All course information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy. HeadStart Academy is a free, independent resource — we do not charge referral fees or commissions. For the most up-to-date details, always check the provider's website.

What You'll Study

The field of education for this course is '06 - Health', specifically '069900 - Health, n.f.d.'. At Certificate III level, students typically develop skills in communication with patients and healthcare teams, infection control procedures, basic nursing support, work health and safety practices, and assisting with mobility and daily living activities. In line with the HLT33115 training package, learners cover units such as 'HLTWHS001 - Participate in workplace health and safety', 'CHCCOM005 - Communicate and work in health or community services', and 'HLTAIN001 - Assist with nursing care in an acute care environment'. The curriculum balances theory with practical application, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The exact syllabus is set by ETEA, so students should request a detailed unit outline from the provider.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration on the CRICOS register is 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students are expected to study full-time to meet student visa requirements (minimum 20 contact hours per week). The structure includes classroom-based learning alongside a mandatory work component. As it is a vocational course, assessments may include assignments, practical demonstrations, and workplace observations. ETEA offers this course at multiple campuses, so students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle. Note that the duration may vary slightly depending on delivery mode (e.g., fast-tracked options), but CRICOS registration specifies 52 weeks. Always confirm with the provider.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$12,200, with no additional non-tuition fees charged by the provider, bringing the estimated total to A$12,200. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by ETEA. They are subject to change, so you must verify current fees directly with the provider at http://www.etea.edu.au. This course fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on coverage level. Additionally, you will need to budget for living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport) and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the Student Visa Subclass 500). For example, in Melbourne, weekly living costs can range from A$350–A$600, while in Adelaide the same might be A$300–A$500. HeadStart Academy provides indicative guides only; refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for official financial capacity requirements.

Entry Requirements

As a guideline, applicants are expected to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or a recognised alternative such as PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT). The Certificate III level typically requires prior completion of Year 10 or equivalent (e.g., Australian Year 10 or overseas equivalent). No specific prior health qualifications are necessary, but some provider may recommend basic numeracy and literacy skills. ETEA may also have additional entry criteria — contact them directly for the most current requirements. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa application. If you do not meet the English requirement, some providers offer pathway programs; ask ETEA about available options.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 3 weeks, at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This work-integrated learning gives students invaluable hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. Placements typically occur in aged care facilities, hospitals, or community health centres, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. The work component is an integral part of the qualification and must be completed to graduate. Your provider will assist with arranging placements, ensuring they meet regulatory standards. CRICOS registration guarantees that the work component adheres to the ESOS Act and National Code, protecting student rights during placements.

Delivery Locations

Education Training & Employment Australia Pty. Ltd. delivers this course at four campuses across Australia:

1. **Heidelberg, VIC** — 113 Burgundy Street, Heidelberg. Located in Melbourne's north-eastern suburbs, approximately 12 km from the city centre. Heidelberg is a major health precinct with several hospitals, offering potential networking opportunities.

2. **Parramatta, NSW** — Argyle Street Parramatta, 21 Argyle St, Parramatta. In western Sydney, Parramatta is a fast-growing urban centre with excellent public transport (train, bus, ferry). It has a large student population and diverse healthcare facilities.

3. **Adelaide, SA** — Level 2, East, 50 Grenfell Street, Adelaide. Right in the Adelaide CBD, this campus is close to public transport, shops, and student services. Adelaide is known for its affordable living costs and strong community feel.

4. **Canning Vale, WA** — Unit 4, 78-84 Catalano Circuit, Canning Vale. In Perth's southern suburbs, approximately 15 km from the CBD. The area has good bus connections and proximity to health services.

Each city has a vibrant international student community. For example, Melbourne has over 250,000 international students, while Sydney has over 300,000. Living costs vary: Sydney is the most expensive, Adelaide the most affordable. Consider transport, climate, and lifestyle when choosing your campus.

Student Visa Information

International students enroling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To maintain visa compliance, you must study full-time and maintain satisfactory course progress. Visa conditions include: - **Work rights**: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). - **GTE requirement**: You must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. - **OSHC**: Must be maintained for the entire visa duration. - **Financial capacity**: You must show access to funds covering tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year from 1 Oct 2023), and return travel. - **ESOS protections**: Your rights are protected under the ESOS Act, including tuition assurance and refund policies.

For detailed visa guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to start your application for Certificate III in Health Services Assistance at ETEA:

**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to verify that ETEA is CRICOS-registered (02925E) and that this course is on the CRICOS register (091830G). Filter by level, field, and location to find suitable options.

**Step 2: Apply directly to ETEA** — Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and submit your application via ETEA’s website at http://www.etea.edu.au. Pay any application fees directly to the provider.

**Step 3: Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** — If accepted, ETEA will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this CoE to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement. For visa help, consult a MARA-registered agent.

Is Health Services Assistance Right for You?

Before choosing this course, consider your career aspirations and personal circumstances. The health sector in Australia is growing, with high demand for assistants in nursing and aged care due to an ageing population. This Certificate III provides a pathway to further study, such as a Diploma of Nursing (EN) leading to Enrolled Nurse registration. It also offers immediate entry-level job opportunities. However, the role involves physical tasks and emotional resilience. Evaluate your comfort with patient care and shift work. Location matters: major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have higher living costs but more placement opportunities, while regional areas may have lower costs and higher demand for workers. Also, think about post-study work rights: after completing a Certificate III, you may be eligible for a Graduate Work visa (Subclass 485) if you meet skills assessment requirements. Use HeadStart Academy’s resources to explore related courses and compare providers. Always speak with ETEA’s student advisors for personalised advice.

Start your journey today by exploring Certificate III in Health Services Assistance on HeadStart Academy, and connect with ETEA for enrolment details.

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