Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy (CRICOS course code 092968D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by The Cairnmillar Institute over 42 weeks (~10 months). This course is designed for individuals seeking to develop professional counselling skills and deepen their understanding of psychotherapeutic practices. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 03530E), it meets Australian Government standards for enrolling international students. The Cairnmillar Institute, located in Hawthorn East, Victoria, is a private provider dedicated to mental health education and training. This qualification can lead to pathways in counselling practice, community services, or further postgraduate study. With a strong focus on experiential learning and a mandatory work component, students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Counselling (090513). Students typically explore advanced counselling theories, therapeutic communication, ethical practice, and client assessment. The curriculum integrates evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, person-centred therapy, and psychodynamic frameworks. Graduates are prepared to work in diverse settings including private practice, community health, schools, and mental health organisations. Note: This is a general description of the field; for the precise syllabus, please consult The Cairnmillar Institute directly.
The program runs for 42 weeks (~10 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification, not a combined or dual award. The study mode is typically full-time on campus, with a significant work-integrated learning component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this Graduate Diploma is A$30,492, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$30,492. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Costs are set by The Cairnmillar Institute and subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, visit the provider's website at http://www.cairnmillar.edu.au/. As a guide, international students in Melbourne should budget approximately A$1,200–A$1,800 per month for accommodation, food, and transport.
International students typically need an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall. Prior qualifications at AQF Level 7 (Bachelor degree) or higher are usually expected for entry to a Graduate Diploma (Level 8). Some providers may require relevant work experience or prerequisite study in psychology or counselling. The Cairnmillar Institute may offer foundation or pathway options; check their website for specific entry criteria. Always confirm requirements directly with the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 20 weeks at 7.5 hours per week, totalling approximately 150 hours. This typically involves a supervised clinical placement or internship in a counselling setting. The placement provides hands-on experience under professional guidance, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Work components are a key feature of many CRICOS-registered courses and enhance employability. Students should discuss placement arrangements with the provider.
This course is delivered at The Cairnmillar Institute (Hawthorn) located in Hawthorn East, Victoria. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, a city with over 200,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is accessible via public transport (trams and trains), and the area offers a range of student accommodation. Melbourne's cost of living is moderate; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$350.
International students enrol in this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during study periods (unlimited during scheduled breaks); maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement; and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by field (Counselling), level (Graduate Diploma), and location (Victoria). Confirm that The Cairnmillar Institute (CRICOS 03530E) meets your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Contact The Cairnmillar Institute for their application process. Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, and any prerequisite proof. Meet application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview.
Melbourne is home to a vibrant international student community and offers numerous opportunities for counselling students. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering welfare and counselling courses, you'll find a rich learning environment. The city's diverse population provides ample placement opportunities. Living costs are competitive with other Australian capitals. Public transport is extensive, and the Hawthorn campus is well-connected. Consider your personal preferences for climate, culture, and lifestyle. For detailed location guidance, explore our state page for Victoria.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your eligibility and apply for the Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute today.
Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Cairnmillar 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.