Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 091934M) is a Diploma delivered by Chisholm Institute over 1 year 4 months (~70 weeks). This qualification, classified under AQF Level 5, provides foundational knowledge and skills for supporting individuals with mental health issues. Chisholm Institute, a government-owned TAFE institution (CRICOS 00881F), delivers this course across multiple campuses in Victoria, including Berwick, Cranbourne, Dandenong, and Frankston. As a VET course with national code CHC53315, it aligns with industry standards for mental health work. International students can study in Victoria, a state with a vibrant student community and robust support systems. The indicative total tuition fee is A$19,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed at the provider. This page provides detailed information on entry requirements, visa conditions, and application steps to help you make an informed decision. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, choosing the right program is crucial. This course is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as mental health support worker, peer worker, or community support worker. The course is taught in English, and a minimum IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 is typically required. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know before applying.
This Diploma falls under the field of Social Work within the broader Society and Culture category. Students learn about human welfare studies, community services, and mental health interventions. The curriculum typically covers topics such as mental health assessment, case management, trauma-informed care, and legal and ethical frameworks. While the specific syllabus is determined by Chisholm Institute, graduates at this level gain practical skills to support individuals in various mental health settings. The course does not lead to a dual qualification and does not include a work component, ensuring a focused academic pathway. With a VET national code of CHC53315, the qualification is nationally recognised in Australia.
The course runs for 1 year and 4 months, equivalent to approximately 70 weeks according to the CRICOS register. Delivery is in English, and it is a single qualification (AQF Level 5 Diploma). There are no foundation studies options, and no work component is integrated. Students should confirm the study mode (e.g., full-time, classroom-based) directly with Chisholm Institute. The duration may vary slightly depending on scheduled breaks, but 70 weeks is the CRICOS-listed duration. Language of instruction is English, and no dual qualification is offered.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$19,000, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total fee is A$19,000. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Victoria vary by city: in Melbourne, weekly rent for shared accommodation ranges from A$150 to A$300, groceries around A$70–A$100, and transport about A$40–A$50. In regional campuses like Berwick, costs may be lower. Always confirm current fees on the Chisholm Institute website (chisholm.edu.au) as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy notes that fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) for this level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Chisholm Institute may also require relevant work experience or a certificate in a related field. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course, but students who do not meet the English or academic requirements should contact the provider for alternative entry options. Always verify specific entry requirements directly with Chisholm Institute, as CRICOS listing does not guarantee current admission policies. English language proficiency can also be demonstrated through PTE Academic or Cambridge English.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students will focus solely on theoretical and practical classroom learning. However, under the Student visa (Subclass 500), students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work must not interfere with the course schedule. International students should also be aware of ESOS protections, including the ability to work part-time while studying. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, and students must maintain satisfactory course progress.
Chisholm Institute delivers this course at four campuses in Victoria: - Berwick Campus: 25 Kangan Drive, Berwick VIC - Cranbourne Campus: New Holland Drive, Cranbourne VIC - Dandenong Campus: 121 Stud Road, Dandenong VIC - Frankston Campus: Fletcher Road, Frankston VIC All campuses are well-connected by public transport. Berwick and Cranbourne are in the southeastern growth corridor, while Dandenong and Frankston are major suburban centres. Victoria is home to over 140 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The state has a diverse international student population and affordable living options compared to Sydney. Each campus provides student support services and learning facilities tailored to mental health studies.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key visa conditions include: - Maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course - Complying with work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term) - Holding adequate OSHC for the duration of stay - Demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent - Showing financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year as of 2026), and travel After completing this Diploma, graduates may be eligible for post-study work visas depending on their qualification level and location (e.g., regional study benefits). For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Applying for the Diploma of Mental Health at Chisholm Institute involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Social Work/Mental Health), and location (Victoria). Confirm your preferred campus at Chisholm Institute. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Chisholm Institute accepts applications through its website. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS/PTE), passport, and any references. Check application deadlines and intake dates (typically Semester 1 and 2). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once Chisholm issues the CoE, you can lodge your visa application online. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but does not replace professional migration advice.
Victoria, and particularly Melbourne, is Australia's leading study destination with over 250,000 international students. It offers world-class public transport, a multicultural environment, and strong mental health services. Studying in regional campuses like Berwick can provide a lower cost of living and potential migration advantages. Consider factors such as climate, campus location, and proximity to industry placements. Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities. If you prefer a quieter setting, Frankston and Cranbourne offer coastal lifestyles. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other Diploma courses in Victoria. The state has a robust ESOS framework protecting student rights.
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Diploma of Mental Health is a CRICOS-registered programme at Chisholm Institute. 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.