Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) (CRICOS course code 104447D) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 program immerses students in creative design thinking, sustainable practices, and fashion industry fundamentals, preparing them for roles in eco-conscious fashion. Delivered at Collarts campuses in Melbourne's creative hubs of Collingwood and Fitzroy, the course combines hands-on studio work with theoretical knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered course (code 104447D) under provider 03392K, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Melbourne boasts over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community with access to galleries, studios, and a thriving fashion scene. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This indicative overview helps you assess if this diploma aligns with your goals. Always verify details with Collarts and consult a registered migration agent for visa advice.
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Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) (CRICOS course code 104447D) is a 1-year Diploma (AQF Level 5) in Fashion Design (Field 100505) offered by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03392K), trading as Collarts. This private provider is based in Melbourne, Victoria, with campuses at 208 Wellington Street and 67-69 Cromwell Street in Collingwood, and Level 2, 156 George Street in Fitzroy. The course is delivered in English and leads to a single qualification with no mandatory work component. With 26,433 courses available across 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, this diploma stands out for its focus on sustainable fashion practice. As an international student, you are protected by the ESOS Act, which safeguards tuition fees and education quality. Melbournes fashion industry and student population of over 250,000 make it an ideal study destination. Living costs in Melbourne average A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport; these costs are in addition to tuition.
This diploma covers the field of education 10 - Creative Arts → 1005 Graphic and Design Studies → 100505 Fashion Design. Students typically develop skills in design thinking, garment construction, textile knowledge, fashion illustration, and sustainable production methods. The curriculum addresses environmental and ethical issues in fashion, encouraging innovative approaches to reduce waste and promote circularity. Graduates gain a solid foundation for entry-level roles in fashion design, styling, purchasing, or sustainable consultancy. While specific course units are set by Collarts, this general description reflects standard outcomes for this AQF level and field. For detailed syllabus content, contact the provider directly. The course is not a pathway to higher education unless explicitly stated by Collarts; check with the provider for progression options.
The Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) is listed on the CRICOS register as a 1-year program (52 weeks). All instruction is in English. It is a single qualification with no dual awards or foundation studies component. Full-time study is expected, as student visa (Subclass 500) conditions typically require enrollment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course. Melbournes campuses offer a dynamic learning environment near public transport, with tram lines connecting Collingwood and Fitzroy to the CBD. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$29,080 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$29,080. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees are set by Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd; always confirm current fees directly with Collarts. Additional costs for international students include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (approximately A$600–800 per year), living expenses (A$400–600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport in Melbourne), and the student visa application charge (A$710 for Subclass 500). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your student visa. For accurate budgeting, visit the providers website and consult the Department of Home Affairs cost of living estimates.
International applicants are generally expected to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent in PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge). Prior educational qualifications at AQF Level 4 or equivalent (e.g., Australian Year 12 or Certificate IV) are typically required. Specific prerequisites may include a portfolio or creative aptitude test set by Collarts. Some students may enter via foundation or pathway programs; contact the provider for options. Always check the official entry requirements on Collarts website, as they can change. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. If you need assistance with English preparation, consider pathway programs available through many CRICOS-registered providers.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights begin once the course starts. Practical experience in Melbournes fashion industry may be sought independently, which can complement your studies. Remember that work must not interfere with your study schedule, and you must maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance as per visa conditions.
The Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) is delivered at three Collarts campuses in Melbourne, Victoria: 208 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066; 67-69 Cromwell Street, Collingwood VIC 3066; and Level 2, 156 George Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065. These suburbs are known as Melbournes creative and cultural precincts, home to numerous art galleries, design studios, and sustainable fashion boutiques. The area is well-served by public transport, including tram routes 11, 12, and 86 along Smith Street, and nearby Parliament Station. Melbourne has a student population of over 250,000 and offers a diverse, welcoming atmosphere. The city has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you plenty of options if you consider other courses. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–600 per week for a single person, covering rent, groceries, and transport.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency. OSHC is mandatory for the visa duration. While on a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Your visa will be granted for the duration of your course plus additional time for travel. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Melbourne is Australias fashion and design capital, with a vibrant creative community, major fashion events like Melbourne Fashion Week, and numerous sustainable fashion labels. The city offers world-class education with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. International students benefit from Melbournes multicultural environment, extensive public transport, and diverse housing options. Living costs in Melbourne are comparable to Sydney but slightly lower, averaging A$400–600 per week for a single person. Consider your preference for urban vs. campus life, seasonal climate (temperate with four seasons), and proximity to industry networks. If you are passionate about sustainable fashion and want to study in a global design hub, Melbourne could be an excellent choice. For personalised advice, visit the providers campus or attend an open day.
Applying for the Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) at Australian College of the Arts Pty Ltd involves three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Fashion Design), and city (Melbourne) on HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS website. Compare entry requirements, fees, and locations.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Collarts website (collarts.edu.au) to check deadlines, submit your application with academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and portfolio as required. Pay attention to intake dates (typically February and July).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Collarts issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via ImmiAccount, attaching OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; lodge early.
Ready to start your fashion design journey? Explore this course on the Collarts website or contact their admissions team for personalised advice. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered courses in Melbourne.
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Diploma of Design (Fashion & Sustainability) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of the Arts 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.