Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108008F) is a Diploma delivered by Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks). This qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge to work as an early childhood educator or lead educator in a range of early childhood settings, including long day care, family day care, and preschool programs. The course is registered under AQF Level 5 and covers key areas such as child development, curriculum planning, inclusive practices, and team leadership. As an international student, you will study in the heart of Brisbane, Queensland — a vibrant, multicultural city with a strong education sector. Brisbane is home to over 80 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,800 courses for international students. HeadStart Academy lists all provider and course data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you have accurate and current information to make an informed decision. Whether you aim to gain Australian qualifications or pursue a global career in early childhood education, this diploma is a solid foundation.
This Diploma falls under the field of Education (07) with a specialisation in Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students in this diploma typically learn about designing and implementing curriculum for children from birth to five years, promoting children's health and safety, fostering inclusive environments, and supporting families. The course also covers professional practice, reflective practice, and leadership in early childhood settings. While the specific syllabus is set by Brisbane College of Australia, graduates generally develop the ability to plan and evaluate educational programs, mentor other educators, and comply with national quality standards. This qualification aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) requirements. Upon completion, you may be eligible to work as an early childhood educator in Australia or overseas, subject to local regulations.
The program runs for 1 year 8 months (85 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). It is delivered in English. The course is a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies component. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it typically requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent for entry. The study mode is likely full-time on campus, though you should confirm with the provider. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions. Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02615G) is a private college located in the Brisbane CBD, offering a central study environment close to public transport, libraries, and student services.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is A$8,500, with non-tuition fees of A$700, bringing the estimated total to A$9,200. These fees are sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that additional costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are separate. For a single student, living costs in Brisbane are estimated at around A$21,000 to A$25,000 per year, covering rent (A$250–A$350 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80–A$150 per week), and public transport (A$50–A$70 per week). Always visit the provider's website for the most current fee schedule. HeadStart Academy does not set or guarantee fees — they are subject to change by the institution.
Applicants typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. This Diploma does not include a foundation or pathway component, but Brisbane College of Australia may offer bridging options — check with them directly. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. For specific entry requirements, contact Brisbane College of Australia or consult a registered migration agent.
This course has no work component. It does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act ensures you have workplace protections as an international student. If you wish to gain practical experience, you may seek voluntary or paid work in the early childhood sector, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Level 5, 160 Edward Street, Brisbane — BRISBANE, QLD. This is located in the Brisbane central business district, a hub for international students. Brisbane has over 80 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population exceeding 100,000. The campus is within walking distance of Central Station, Queen Street Mall, and numerous student services. Living in Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, and easy access to beaches and national parks. Public transport is efficient, with trains, buses, and ferries connecting all areas.
International students enrolled in this Diploma are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, adequate attendance, and meeting OSHC requirements. Student work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks — always check the latest Department of Home Affairs policies. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating your intent to study and return home. Financial capacity is required: tuition plus living costs (at least A$21,041 per year for a single student) plus travel. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory — compare providers like Allianz, Medibank, or BUPA. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing tuition fee protection and educational quality.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Brisbane College of Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and city (Brisbane). Confirm that Brisbane College of Australia (CRICOS 02615G) meets your criteria. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the provider's website to review entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.5-6.0 or equivalent), and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport). 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 via the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. For complex cases, consult a registered migration agent.
Brisbane is Australia's third-largest city, with a thriving international student community and a strong job market in early childhood education. With over 80 CRICOS-registered providers, you have many options for further study or pathway programs. The cost of living is moderate: rent A$250–A$350 per week for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–A$150 per week, and a monthly transport pass around A$100. Brisbane's warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and proximity to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast make it an attractive destination. However, public transport can be less frequent in outer suburbs, so consider campus location — Level 5, 160 Edward Street is in the CBD, easily accessible by train, bus, and ferry. Think about your accommodation, part-time work opportunities, and lifestyle preferences before deciding.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and 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.