Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 109348M) is a Certificate IV delivered by United Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification equips graduates with the skills to provide person-centred support to older individuals in residential, home, and community settings. As Australia's population ages, demand for qualified aged care workers continues to grow, making this course a strategic choice for international students. The course is registered under CRICOS, ensuring it meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international education. With a focus on human welfare studies, students learn about care planning, legal and ethical considerations, and supporting independence. United Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04011J) delivers this program at its main campus in Melbourne, Victoria, a vibrant city with a large student population and excellent public transport.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 109348M) is a Certificate IV delivered by United Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). It falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (090507 - Care for the Aged) and is a VET qualification. The course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks (~120 total hours) to provide hands-on industry experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment and complies with the ESOS Act, offering protections such as tuition assurance and access to the Overseas Student Ombudsman. This qualification is ideal for those seeking to work in aged care facilities, community care, or as personal care assistants.
In this Certificate IV, students develop competencies required to support the wellbeing and independence of older people. Areas of study typically include: implementing person-centred care approaches, managing legal and ethical compliance, facilitating safe and effective work environments, and coordinating services to meet individual needs. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates are prepared to work in roles such as support worker, care team leader, or program coordinator. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering topics like palliative care, dementia support, and medication assistance. This level (AQF Level 4) assumes prior foundational skills, often equivalent to completion of Year 12 or a Certificate III.
The course duration is 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend full-time study, typically with a combination of classroom learning and the 6-week work placement. The structure may include scheduled breaks aligning with term dates.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$24,000 for the entire course, with additional non-tuition fees of A$6,000, bringing the estimated total to A$30,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Non-tuition fees may cover materials, resources, and administration. Importantly, these figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's official website. Melbourne's cost of living for a single student is approximately A$25,000–A$35,000 per year (including rent, groceries, and transport), so budget accordingly.
The English language requirement for this course is an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) or a Certificate III in a related field. Some providers may require a pre-training assessment or interview. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry—contact United Institute Pty Ltd for details. Always verify specific entry requirements with the institution.
This course includes a work component of 6 weeks (approximately 120 total hours). This is a mandatory industry placement designed to give students real-world experience in aged care settings. During this placement, you will apply your learning under supervision, providing direct care and support to older people. Work-integrated learning (WIL) such as this is invaluable for building practical skills and employment networks. The specific hours per week are not listed on CRICOS but are determined by the provider to meet competencies.
The course is delivered at the main campus of United Institute Pty Ltd in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people and a major hub for international students. With more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers, Melbourne offers diverse study options. The city has an extensive public transport network (trains, trams, buses), making campuses accessible. Living costs in Melbourne range from A$1,200–A$1,800 per month for shared accommodation, groceries, and transport. As a student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your study, with work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include: meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Visa conditions such as attendance and academic progress must be met. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for guidance.
To apply for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at United Institute Pty Ltd, follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Confirm the course details and entry requirements on the provider's website or via the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to United Institute Pty Ltd: Submit your application, academic transcripts, English test results (if required), and any other documents. Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to begin your aged care career? Start your application process by contacting United Institute Pty Ltd.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at United Institute 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.