Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 108140B) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for individuals seeking to work in the aged care sector, providing support to older people in residential or community settings. As part of the field of Society and Culture (Human Welfare Studies and Services), graduates develop skills in person-centered care, dementia support, and legal and ethical practices. Located in Hurtsville, New South Wales, this program combines theoretical learning with practical experience through a mandatory work component, ensuring students are job-ready upon completion. HeadStart Academy highlights this course as one of over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses available across Australia, all backed by the ESOS Act protections for international students. Whether you are planning a career change or advancing your qualifications, this Certificate IV offers a pathway into a growing industry. Australia's aged care sector needs skilled professionals, and studying through a CRICOS-registered provider ensures quality education and student rights.
This Certificate IV in Ageing Support falls under the broader field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090507 - Care for the Aged). At this level, students typically learn how to support older people to maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life. Core topics include coordinating services for aged care, implementing individualised support plans, managing legal and ethical compliance, and providing person-centred care for clients with complex needs such as dementia. The course also covers communication strategies, workplace health and safety, and cultural sensitivity. Graduates are prepared for roles such as residential care worker, community support worker, or care team leader. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian quality standards. As a VET qualification (CHC43015), it aligns with national competency units, making it recognised across Australia.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies attached. This is a single qualification, meaning you focus entirely on the Certificate IV in Ageing Support. Study modes are typically full-time classroom-based or blended learning, depending on the provider's delivery. Students are expected to commit to scheduled classes, self-study, and the work component. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). The course structure includes both theoretical and practical assessments, preparing you for the workforce. Always confirm the exact start dates and study schedule with Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd.
The indicative fees for this course are as follows: tuition fee A$15,000, non-tuition fee A$550, estimated total A$15,550. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in the total are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student in Sydney, indicative weekly costs might be around A$600 for rent (shared accommodation), A$80 for groceries, and A$40 for public transport. Always visit the provider's website at [insert provider website if known, otherwise omit] for the most current fee schedule. Remember, fees are set by the institution, and HeadStart Academy recommends confirming directly before enrolling. All CRICOS-registered providers must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring fee transparency and refund protections.
For international students, the minimum English language requirement is typically IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for entry into a Certificate IV level usually include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in a related field. Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd may also assess applicants on a case-by-case basis. Foundation or pathway options are not specified for this course, so check with the provider for any bridging programs. Academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a valid passport are standard application documents. HeadStart Academy advises that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission — the provider makes the final decision. For visa purposes, you must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and sufficient financial capacity.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours of supervised placement. This work-integrated learning is typically an industry placement in an aged care facility or community care setting. It allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, develop professional networks, and gain hands-on experience in caring for older Australians. Placements are arranged by the provider, but students may need to meet certain prerequisites such as a police check or immunisations. The work component is an integral part of the qualification and counts towards course completion. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, so the placement hours are well within visa conditions. Always confirm placement arrangements with Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd.
The course is delivered at Suite 1 Level 1 34 Macmahon St Hurtsville NSW 2220. Hurtsville is a suburb in southern Sydney, approximately 17 km from the CBD. It is well-connected by train and bus, making it accessible for students living across Sydney. The campus is close to local amenities including shopping centres, libraries, and healthcare facilities. Hurtsville has a diverse community and is home to several educational institutions. Sydney, as a study destination, offers over 300 CRICOS-registered providers across all levels. Living in Sydney provides exposure to a vibrant multicultural environment, but it is one of Australia's more expensive cities. Indicative living costs for a single student in Sydney (excluding tuition) are around A$25,000 to A$30,000 per year. The campus location is convenient for those residing in the Sydney metropolitan area.
International students enrolling in this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement — demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is required, typically showing sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Dependents may accompany you on a Student Dependent visa. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not working more than permitted. Visit the Department of Home Affairs for official information. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised visa advice. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student, including tuition fee refunds if the provider closes.
New South Wales, particularly Sydney, has a high demand for aged care workers due to its ageing population. Studying in NSW gives you access to a large network of aged care facilities for work placements and future employment. However, the cost of living in Sydney is among the highest in Australia. As a guide, international students should budget around A$600–800 per week for rent, food, and transport. Hurtsville offers a more affordable option compared to inner-city suburbs, with good public transport links. Also consider that the aged care sector in Australia is regulated by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, and employers prefer qualifications from CRICOS-registered providers. This course qualifies you for roles such as personal care assistant or support worker. Before choosing, think about your career goals, whether you prefer city or suburban life, and if you are ready for the practical work component. HeadStart Academy provides detailed course and location data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate IV), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW or Hurtsville). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (03736B) and course code (108140B) on the official register.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (IELTS 5.0–5.5, academic qualifications). Submit your application through Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd's admissions process. Include transcripts, English test results, and a copy of your passport. Check application deadlines and any additional requirements.
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 visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After visa grant, you can travel to Australia and commence your studies.
Ready to start your journey in aged care? Explore more Certificate IV courses in NSW at HeadStart Academy.
View the full Sydney Centre for Finance Studies Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Centre for Finance Studies 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.