Certificate III in Dental Assisting (CRICOS 110219K) at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College

Course Overview

Certificate III in Dental Assisting (CRICOS course code 110219K) is a Certificate III level qualification (AQF Level 3) within the field of Dental Studies (060703). It is offered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02933E), a private provider based in Victoria. The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The VET national code is HLT35021. The course includes a mandatory work component of 44 weeks at 8 hours per week (approximately 352 total hours), providing students with practical experience in dental settings. Indicative tuition is A$7,500, with non-tuition fees of A$500, totaling an estimated A$8,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. All fees are set by the provider and subject to change — always check the provider's website for current fees.

What You'll Study

This course covers the core competencies required for entry-level dental assisting roles. Students learn about oral health, infection control, radiography, and chairside assisting. The curriculum typically includes topics such as dental materials, practice management software, and patient communication. Graduates are prepared to work under the supervision of dentists in private practices, community health clinics, or specialist dental services. The field of Dental Studies (060703) focuses on preventive and restorative dental care. As a Certificate III, this qualification provides a pathway to further study in Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene (Certificate IV or Diploma level).

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year). Instruction is delivered in English. It is a single qualification — not combined with foundation studies or other qualifications. The study mode is likely full-time, face-to-face at the Preston campus, with a substantial work placement component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa conditions.

Fees (Indicative)

The CRICOS register lists indicative fees for Certificate III in Dental Assisting at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College: tuition A$7,500, non-tuition fees A$500, estimated total A$8,000. These are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. OSHC, living costs (approximately A$400–600 per week in Melbourne for rent, food, and transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.alacchealth.edu.au.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

International students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). For this Certificate III level, applicants should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require a police check or working with children check due to the healthcare setting. Foundation or pathway options: Contact Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College for specific entry requirements and any bridging programs. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements — these are determined by the provider and may change.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work component: 44 weeks at 8 hours per week (approximately 352 total hours). This is an industry placement or clinical placement in a dental practice, supervised by qualified professionals. It provides hands-on experience in chairside assisting, instrument sterilisation, and patient interaction. Work-integrated learning is essential for developing practical skills and meeting Australian industry standards.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College - CRICOS campus at 189 Plenty Rd, PRESTON VIC 3072. Preston is a suburb in Melbourne's north, approximately 10 km from the CBD. It is well-served by public transport (train and tram) and has a large student population. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–500 per week for shared accommodation, plus groceries and transport.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on campus. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend at least 80% of contact hours, make satisfactory course progress, and hold OSHC for the duration of stay. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.

Is Victoria Right for You?

Victoria is Australia's second-most popular study destination, home to over 250,000 international students. Melbourne offers a multicultural environment, strong job market, and world-class healthcare. For dental assisting, Victoria has a high demand for dental assistants due to its growing population. Preston is a student-friendly suburb with affordable housing and easy access to Melbourne's CBD. Consider climate (warm summers, cool winters), public transport (Myki card), and part-time work opportunities (hospitality, retail, healthcare). Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney. Always budget carefully and explore scholarships if available.

Ready to start your dental assisting career? Explore this CRICOS-registered course and apply today. For current fees and entry requirements, visit the provider's website.

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