Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 097131J) is a Certificate IV delivered by Lead College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification equips students with the skills to support older people in residential, home, and community care settings. As part of the Society and Culture field (090507 - Care for the Aged), it focuses on human welfare and aged care services. Australia's ageing population creates strong demand for qualified aged care workers, making this a practical career pathway for international students. Lead College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03636F) is a private provider with campuses in Haymarket (Sydney), Parramatta, and Cannington (Perth). All data is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Note: HeadStart Academy is a free resource only; we do not provide migration advice.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support (AQF Level 4) covers person-centred care, supporting independence, and managing complex care needs. Students learn to work collaboratively with health professionals and families, develop care plans, and handle legal and ethical responsibilities. The field of education (090507 - Care for the Aged) emphasises practical skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving specific to aged care. Graduates are prepared for roles such as aged care worker, personal care assistant, or care team leader. This is a general guide; for the exact syllabus, contact Lead College directly.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes full-time at one of Lead College's campuses. The VET national code is CHC43015. This single qualification is designed to be completed within the standard duration; extensions may be possible under specific circumstances but should be discussed with the provider.
Tuition is A$14,000, with non-tuition fees at A$0, giving an estimated total of A$14,000. These are indicative figures from the CRICOS register and subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,041/year for a single student in Australia), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees on Lead College's website: http://www.leadcollege.edu.au. Cost of living varies by city: Sydney (Haymarket/Parramatta) is higher than Perth (Cannington). Typical weekly rent in Sydney is A$350-$600, while Perth is A$250-$400.
An IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) is recommended for this level. Students typically require completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Prior study in community services or healthcare is beneficial but not mandatory. Lead College may offer pathways for students who do not meet English requirements, such as ELICOS programs. Since HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend contacting the provider for precise entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, students may seek part-time work during their studies. Under a Student visa (Subclass 500), work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Aged care work is in demand, and many students find casual employment in the sector while studying.
Lead College Pty Ltd delivers this course at three locations: - Haymarket: 841 George St, Sydney NSW – in the heart of Sydney's CBD, close to Chinatown and Central Station. - Parramatta: 37 George St, Parramatta NSW – a major western Sydney hub with strong public transport links. - Cannington: 15 Leila St, Cannington WA – in Perth's southeastern suburbs, accessible via the Cannington train station. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while Perth has around 100. Both cities offer diverse student communities and vibrant lifestyles.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, OSHC for the duration, and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course. With this visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during holidays. Dependants may have separate work rights. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring tuition protection and refund policies.
Choosing between Sydney and Perth depends on your preferences. Sydney offers a larger job market, more multicultural experiences, and higher living costs. The Haymarket and Parramatta campuses are well-connected for part-time work in aged care facilities. Perth has a slower pace, lower rent, and a growing aged care sector. Both states have strong support networks for international students. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals when deciding.
Ready to pursue a career in aged care? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers like Lead College Pty Ltd. Then apply directly and receive your CoE to apply for your student visa.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lead College 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.