Certificate II in Animal Care (CRICOS course code 106579J) is a Certificate II delivered by Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd over 27 weeks (~6 months). This entry-level qualification is designed for international students who want to start a career working with animals in settings such as kennels, catteries, pet shops, or animal shelters. It covers foundational skills in animal handling, feeding, hygiene, and workplace safety. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 02615G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment and is eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course is delivered at the provider's campus in Brisbane's central business district, offering access to a vibrant student city with excellent transport links. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, study location, and the application process to help you make an informed decision.
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Certificate II in Animal Care (CRICOS course code 106579J) is a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification at AQF Level 2. It belongs to the field of education 061199 - Veterinary Studies, n.e.c., under the broader category of Health (06). The course is delivered by Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02615G). The program is designed to equip students with practical skills for entry-level roles in animal care industries. It does not include a mandatory work component. The course is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program) and is taught in English. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer rights.
While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, Certificate II in Animal Care generally introduces students to the fundamentals of animal care. Typical learning outcomes include safe animal handling and restraint, understanding animal behaviour and nutrition, maintaining clean and hygienic environments, and providing basic first aid. Students also develop communication skills for working in a team and with clients. The course covers species commonly found in companion animal settings, such as dogs, cats, and small mammals. This level of study is ideal for those new to the field or as a stepping stone to higher qualifications like Certificate III or IV in Animal Care.
The course duration is 27 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification option — students earn a single Certificate II. The study mode is typically face-to-face at the provider's campus. International students should ensure they maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees set by Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition A$5,250, non-tuition fees A$450, for an estimated total of A$5,700. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees with the provider. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for the duration of the student visa, living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For a single student, the Department of Home Affairs suggests living costs of at least A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). See the provider's website for the latest fee schedule.
Entry requirements vary by provider. For Certificate II level, Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd typically expects international students to have completed Year 10 or equivalent. English language proficiency is also required — a common guide is IELTS 5.5 overall (with no band less than 5.0) or equivalent. Some providers may accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not applicable for this course; refer to the provider for specific academic and English requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This work right does not form part of the course but can help with living costs and gaining Australian work experience.
The course is delivered at Level 5, 160 Edward Street, Brisbane — BRISBANE, QLD. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and home to a large international student population, with over 100,000 students enrolled across its universities and colleges. The city offers a subtropical climate, affordable living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, and excellent public transport including buses, trains, and ferries. The campus is located in the central business district, close to Queen Street Mall and public transport hubs. Living costs in Brisbane are estimated at A$350–A$500 per week for a single person including rent, groceries, and transport.
International students enrolling in a CRICOS-registered course like this one are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your study. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. Note: Student visa conditions require you to maintain enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and course progress. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa information.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate II in Animal Care at Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS website or HeadStart Academy to verify that Brisbane College of Australia (CRICOS 02615G) and this course (106579J) are registered. Compare with other animal care courses in Queensland to find the best fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Brisbane College of Australia to check entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts and English test results (e.g., IELTS), and complete their application form. Pay attention to application deadlines and intake dates.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare documents including proof of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement.
Brisbane offers a supportive environment for international students studying animal care. The city has a growing animal care industry with opportunities in veterinary clinics, pet stores, animal shelters, and wildlife parks. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia offer more than 26,000 courses, but Brisbane's central location and affordable cost of living make it an attractive choice. The average weekly rent for a share house is around A$200–A$300, and public transport costs about A$50–A$70 per week with a student concession card. Brisbane is also close to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, offering additional animal-related attractions like Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. When choosing a course, consider that this Certificate II is entry-level — you may wish to progress to higher qualifications for broader career options.
Ready to start your animal care journey? Visit the Brisbane College of Australia website for application details and intake dates.
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Certificate II in Animal Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Brisbane College of Australia 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.