Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (CRICOS course code 102995C) is a Diploma delivered by Young Rabbit Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~77 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with practical skills in fashion design, garment construction, textiles, and merchandising. Designed for international students, this course combines creative design with business acumen, preparing graduates for roles in the fashion industry. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrollment, ensuring ESOS Act protections and visa eligibility. Whether you dream of launching your own label or working for a global brand, this diploma provides a solid foundation. Young Rabbit Pty Ltd trades as Australian Pacific College (APC), with campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Gold Coast. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia and 26,433 courses to choose from (as at April 2026), this diploma stands out for its practical focus and industry connections.
The Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising falls under the field of Creative Arts (Graphic and Design Studies, Fashion Design). Students typically learn garment construction techniques, pattern making, textile science, fashion illustration, and merchandising strategies. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on projects, covering end-to-end fashion product development — from concept sketches to final garment production. Graduates of this level often gain skills in trend analysis, quality control, supply chain logistics, and brand marketing. While specific syllabus details are provided by the institute, this diploma aims to produce job-ready professionals who understand both creative and commercial aspects of fashion. This general guidance reflects typical outcomes for Diploma-level creative arts courses in Australia. Students will likely work with industry-standard software and equipment, building a portfolio to showcase to employers. The course also emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices, aligning with global fashion trends.
This course is delivered over 1 year 6 months (~77 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not serve as foundation studies. Most students will study full-time to maintain compliance with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions - typically requiring 20 contact hours per week. Young Rabbit Pty Ltd may offer various timetables, including daytime and evening classes, depending on campus. International students should ensure they can meet the course attendance and progression requirements under the ESOS Act. The duration includes scheduled breaks, which align with student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holiday periods. Always check the provider's official course page for the latest study mode options, as delivery may vary by campus.
Course fees are set by Young Rabbit Pty Ltd and are indicative as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). The tuition fee is A$19,000, non-tuition fees are A$600, bringing the estimated total to A$19,600. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500-700 per year, depending on provider. Additionally, living costs vary by city — for example, weekly rent in Sydney or Melbourne can range from A$300-600, while Adelaide or Brisbane may be A$250-450. The Australian Government recommends a living cost budget of at least A$21,041 per year (as of 2026). The Student visa application charge is currently A$710 (may change). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.apc.edu.au before applying. Fees are subject to change and may not include materials or equipment costs.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English test) for Diploma-level entry. Prior completion of Year 12 or equivalent is usually required, and some providers ask for a portfolio or interview. This diploma builds on skills gained in a Certificate IV or relevant work experience. Foundation studies or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet academic or English requirements — contact Young Rabbit Pty Ltd for options. All entry requirements are set by the provider and should be verified on their website. Note that meeting minimum academic and English requirements does not guarantee admission; institutions consider overall suitability. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the course page for specific prerequisites. Students who need visa support should consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, many students choose to undertake voluntary internships or part-time work to gain experience. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The absence of a work component means you can focus fully on your studies, but you may also seek practical opportunities independently. ESOS protections ensure that if your study is impacted by changes to the course, you have rights to refunds or alternative arrangements. Always review the provider's policies on extra-curricular work and ensure any employment does not interfere with course attendance.
The Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising is delivered at six Australian Pacific College campuses across Australia: Dawes Point, NSW; Adelaide, SA; Melbourne, VIC (two locations: L1 Queen St and L9 Queen St); Surfers Paradise, QLD; and Brisbane, QLD (L9,10,12,13 Albert St). Each city offers a unique study experience. Sydney (Dawes Point) is Australia's fashion and financial hub, with a high cost of living but unparalleled networking opportunities. Melbourne is known for its creative arts scene and affordable student life (weekly rent ~$300-450). Adelaide and Brisbane offer lower costs (~$250-400 rent/wk) and growing fashion industries. Surfers Paradise provides a relaxed lifestyle with part-time work opportunities in tourism. All campuses are accessible by public transport. With hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers in each state — 350+ in NSW, 180+ in VIC, 100+ in QLD, and 40+ in SA — students have diverse options. When choosing a location, consider climate, cultural fit, and industry connections. HeadStart Academy's location guides can help you decide.
International students enrolling in this full-time course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To qualify, you must receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Young Rabbit Pty Ltd. Key conditions include: maintaining OSHC for the duration of your stay, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and meeting health and character requirements. As a diploma-level student, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependents included in your visa may also have work rights. All CRICOS-registered institutions must comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. For visa applications, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or consult a MARA-registered agent. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not offer migration advice. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Planning ahead is essential — start the process at least 3-6 months before course commencement.
Follow these three steps to start your journey with the Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising at Young Rabbit Pty Ltd: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Creative Arts, Fashion Design), and location (NSW, VIC, QLD, SA). This course is offered in six campuses, so compare cities. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution. Visit www.apc.edu.au to access the online application form. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 5.5-6.0), a portfolio if required, and a valid passport. Check application deadlines — typically 4-6 weeks before intake. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Young Rabbit Pty Ltd issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online through ImmiAccount. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements. For personalized advice, contact a registered migration agent.
Choosing a Diploma in Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising means diving into a creative yet commercial field. Australia's fashion industry is growing, with hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide offering diverse opportunities. This diploma is ideal if you enjoy combining artistic expression with business strategy. Consider your location preferences: Sydney offers industry exposure but higher living costs; Melbourne provides a vibrant arts scene; Adelaide and Brisbane are more affordable with emerging fashion scenes. Surfers Paradise combines study with lifestyle. If you are unsure, explore our state guides for NSW, Victoria, and Queensland. Also, reflect on your career goals: fashion design, merchandising, buying, or styling. This course covers both design and business, making you versatile. Remember, all courses on HeadStart Academy are from CRICOS-registered providers, so your qualification will be recognized under ESOS protections. Take advantage of free resources on our site to compare courses and locations.
Ready to pursue your fashion career? Explore the Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising at headstartacademy.com.au/courses/102995C, and compare it with other fashion design courses across Australia. Start your journey today!
Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising is a CRICOS-registered programme at Young Rabbit 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.