Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS 094533D) at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd

Course overview

The Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 094533D) is a VET qualification at AQF Level 5, offered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02933E). This course is designed to prepare graduates for roles in mental health support across a range of settings, including community health, aged care, and disability services. The program focuses on developing advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and referral, as well as understanding legal and ethical frameworks. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. The course is delivered over 88 weeks and includes a significant work-integrated learning component, making it a practical pathway into the mental health workforce.

What you'll study

This Diploma falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, which focuses on supporting the well-being of individuals and communities. Students typically learn about mental health assessment and diagnosis, therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy. The curriculum also covers mental health legislation, ethics, and cultural considerations, including working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. While specific subjects vary by provider, graduates of this level are expected to demonstrate the ability to work autonomously and contribute to the planning and evaluation of mental health services. This course does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies — it is a standalone Diploma designed for direct entry into the workforce or further study.

Duration and study mode

The Diploma of Mental Health is scheduled over 1 year 8 months (~88 weeks) as confirmed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. The course is delivered on-campus at the provider's Preston location and does not include online or distance learning options. This is a single qualification (not part of a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The full-time structure typically involves scheduled classes, practical workshops, and supervised work placement.

Fees (indicative)

Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd. Tuition is A$15,500 for the entire program, with no non-tuition fees listed (A$0). The estimated total is therefore A$15,500. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current and detailed fee schedule, including any additional charges for materials or resources, visit the provider's website at www.alacchealth.edu.au. Fees are indicative and subject to change — always confirm directly with the institution before applying.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements for this Diploma level include a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent English proficiency test). Applicants are typically expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification, as this is an AQF Level 5 course. Prior experience in community services or health may be advantageous but is not mandatory. The provider may also assess individual applications based on relevant work experience or other criteria. No foundation or pathway programs are offered as part of this course — refer to Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College for specific entry requirements and application procedures.

Work component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 13 weeks, 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 260 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement (also known as industry placement or clinical placement) designed to provide practical experience in real mental health settings. Students will apply classroom learning to support individuals with mental health issues under supervision. Placement arrangements are typically coordinated by the provider and may take place in community health organisations, aged care facilities, or other relevant services. Work hours count toward the total course duration and are integral to achieving the qualification.

Delivery locations

The Diploma of Mental Health is delivered at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College's campus located at 189 Plenty Rd, Preston, Victoria 3072. Preston is a vibrant suburb in Melbourne's northern corridor, approximately 10 km from the CBD. The area is well-served by public transport, including trains (Preston station) and trams, and offers a range of student amenities. Melbourne is home to over 250,000 international students and has more than 70 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–$350, groceries A$70–$100, and a public transport concession pass around A$30. This location offers easy access to both city life and suburban community settings suitable for placements.

Student visa

International students studying this course will require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work component does not reduce study requirements. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Mental Health at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Mental Health), and location (Victoria). Verify that the provider and course are current.

2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit www.alacchealth.edu.au to check specific entry requirements, including English language test scores and academic qualifications. Submit your application along with required documents before the deadline.

3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. With this, you can apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE.

Is Preston right for you?

Preston offers a balance of urban convenience and community feel, making it suitable for international students. The suburb has a large shopping centre (Northland), multiple parks, and a diverse population. Public transport to Melbourne CBD takes about 30 minutes by train. For students in mental health, Preston is close to several hospitals and community health centres that may offer placement opportunities. However, living costs are slightly lower than the city centre. Consider your lifestyle preferences: if you enjoy a quieter environment with easy city access, Preston is a strong choice. Compare with other Melbourne locations like Carlton or St Kilda, which have different vibes.

For current fees and application details, visit the Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd website at www.alacchealth.edu.au or contact their admissions office.

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