Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110206D) is a Certificate III delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This entry-level qualification is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres, preschools, and kindergartens. It focuses on developing practical skills to support children's learning and development from birth to five years. As a CRICOS-registered course (code 110206D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is a public university with a strong reputation for vocational and higher education, offering students access to modern facilities at its Hawthorn campus. With over 1500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, choosing a registered course ensures quality and compliance with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, providing legal protections for international students.
This Certificate III falls under the field of education (07 – Education, 0701 – Teacher Education, 070101 – Teacher Education: Early Childhood). Graduates typically gain foundational knowledge in child development, health and safety, and creating supportive learning environments. The curriculum covers areas such as supporting children's play and learning, fostering positive relationships, and understanding legal and ethical responsibilities in early childhood settings. While specific syllabi vary by provider, this qualification prepares students for roles like early childhood educator or assistant. It also provides a pathway to higher-level qualifications, such as the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to national training standards and industry requirements.
The CRICOS register lists the duration of this course as 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and is not classified as foundation studies. The course is typically offered full-time, with a mix of classroom learning and practical work placement. International students should ensure they meet the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Studying at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus places students in Melbourne, Victoria, a city with a large international student population and excellent public transport connections.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative and set by the institution. According to the CRICOS register, the tuition fee is A$20,760. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$20,760. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Swinburne University of Technology via their international website before applying. Fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) along with completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Prior qualifications expected for this level include secondary schooling. Swinburne may also offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the institution's specific entry requirements, as they can vary. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission. You should also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for your student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 30 weeks at 6 hours per week, totalling approximately 180 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement, such as supervised industry placement in an early childhood education centre, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real settings. Work placements are integral to meeting the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) requirements for early childhood qualifications. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The placement must align with visa work restrictions.
This course is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a vibrant suburb just 7 km east of Melbourne's CBD, well-served by trains, trams, and buses. There are over 10 CRICOS-registered providers in Hawthorn alone, including La Trobe University and others. Melbourne has the highest number of international students in Australia, with a diverse and welcoming community. Weekday public transport makes accessing the campus easy from most parts of the city.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Swinburne University of Technology:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is registered to deliver this course (110206D) at the Hawthorn campus. Check course level, field, and location.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Review Swinburne's entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application online via their international admissions portal. You may need to provide certified documents and evidence of English proficiency.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Note that visa processing times vary.
Ready to begin your early childhood education journey? Use the steps above to apply. Explore more courses in Victoria or contact Swinburne directly for personalised advice.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.