Diploma of Counselling (CRICOS course code 110471J) is a Diploma delivered by EQUINIM COLLEGE PTY LTD over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards for international education. EQUINIM COLLEGE (CRICOS 03952E) is a private provider offering this Diploma at three locations: Brisbane, North Sydney, and Perth. International students can study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and gain skills in counselling, preparing for roles in community services and welfare. The indicative tuition fee is A$11,600, with additional non-tuition fees of A$175, totalling A$11,775. Note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application charges. Entry typically requires IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall and prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV. This course has no mandatory work component. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, helping you make informed decisions about studying in Australia. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your rights under the ESOS Act are protected.
Diploma of Counselling (CRICOS 110471J) is a Diploma-level course (AQF Level 5) offered by EQUINIM COLLEGE PTY LTD, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03952E). The course is classified under field of education 090513 - Counselling, part of the Society and Culture broad field. It is designed to equip students with practical counselling skills applicable in various settings such as community services, mental health support, and human welfare. The course is registered on the CRICOS register, meaning it has been assessed for quality and can be offered to international students. EQUINIM COLLEGE has campuses in Queensland (Brisbane), New South Wales (North Sydney), and Western Australia (Perth). The course code 110471J is unique to this qualification at this provider. As an international student, you can enrol in this Diploma and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) of full-time study. No dual qualification or foundation studies are included. The VET national code is CHC51015, aligning with the national training package.
In this Diploma, students develop skills in counselling, including communication, ethical practice, and client support. The course covers key areas such as human welfare, behavioural psychology, and intervention strategies. Graduates are prepared for roles like counsellor, case worker, or support worker in agencies, schools, or private practice. While specific units are set by the provider, typical outcomes include the ability to assess clients' needs, provide counselling services, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The field of education emphasizes human welfare studies and services, focusing on improving well-being. This Diploma is a stepping stone for further study in counselling or social work. Students also gain transferable skills in communication, empathy, and problem-solving. As a CRICOS-registered course, the curriculum aligns with Australian quality standards.
The Diploma of Counselling is delivered full-time over 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, meaning it does not combine with another degree or include foundation studies. The course is classroom-based at the provider's campuses. No online or distance mode is indicated. Students are expected to attend classes on-site. This study mode suits international students who prefer a structured learning environment with direct interaction with trainers. The 52-week duration allows for comprehensive coverage of counselling skills. Note that the actual study period may vary if the course is offered in multiple intakes. Always confirm the schedule with EQUINIM COLLEGE.
The indicative tuition fee for this Diploma is A$11,600, as listed on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees amount to A$175, bringing the estimated total to A$11,775. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor does it include living expenses or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Student visa). OSHC costs vary by provider and coverage level, typically around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses are estimated at A$21,041 per year for a single student (Department of Home Affairs requirement). In Brisbane, weekly rent may range from A$300–A$450, with other costs around A$100–A$150 per week. In Sydney, rent is higher, often A$400–A$600 per week. In Perth, similar to Brisbane. These are indicative and subject to change. Always check the provider's website for current fees and additional charges. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the official CRICOS register and notes that fees are set by institutions and may change.
General entry requirements for Diploma of Counselling include an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent), as per typical benchmarks for this level. Students should have completed Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV or equivalent. Some providers may require prior study in a related field. EQUINIM COLLEGE may have specific prerequisites, so it's important to check their website. The course is offered in English, so English language proficiency is essential. For students not meeting direct entry, foundation or pathway options may be available, but this course does not include foundation studies. Always confirm with the provider. Academic documents may need to be translated. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting EQUINIM COLLEGE directly for precise requirements.
This Diploma of Counselling does not include a mandatory work component. However, some providers may offer optional work placements or internships, but the CRICOS register indicates no work component for this course. International students can work part-time while studying: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work is not part of the course but can provide valuable industry experience. Students are responsible for finding their own employment. The no-work component means that the course is purely academic, focusing on theory and practical classroom-based training. If you seek hands-on experience, consider whether this course meets your needs. Check with EQUINIM COLLEGE for any additional opportunities.
EQUINIM COLLEGE delivers this Diploma at three campuses: Fortitude Valley in Brisbane (QLD), North Sydney (NSW), and Northbridge in Perth (WA). Brisbane is a vibrant city with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, a large international student community, and excellent public transport. The Fortitude Valley campus is near public transport and amenities. North Sydney is a business hub just across the harbour from Sydney CBD, with easy access to trains and buses. Sydney has the highest number of international students in Australia and a high cost of living. Northbridge is a lively area in Perth, close to the city centre and well-connected. Perth offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs than Sydney. Each location provides a unique study environment. Consider your preferences for climate, lifestyle, and industry connections when choosing a campus. All campuses are CRICOS-registered locations.
International students enrolling in this Diploma can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work part-time (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and travel in and out of Australia. To obtain this visa, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The visa application charge is currently A$1,600. You will need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from EQUINIM COLLEGE before applying. The Department of Home Affairs assesses your application based on your financial capacity, English proficiency, and intentions to temporarily stay. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised assistance. Remember that ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, safeguarding your tuition fees and academic rights.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Start by exploring CRICOS-registered courses like this Diploma of Counselling at EQUINIM COLLEGE PTY LTD. Use HeadStart Academy to compare providers, fees, and locations. Ensure the course meets your career goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on EQUINIM COLLEGE's website. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, English test results). Some providers may require an interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, EQUINIM COLLEGE will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy provides free information to guide you through this process.
Before choosing this Diploma, consider the demand for counsellors in Australia, which is growing due to increased mental health awareness. The course provides a pathway to roles in community services, but graduates may need further qualifications for full membership in professional bodies like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Also, consider your location preference: Brisbane offers a subtropical climate and lower living costs than Sydney; North Sydney is close to a major city but expensive; Perth has a warm climate and a growing job market. Think about your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans in Australia. As an international student, you have the right to work and access support services. The ESOS Act ensures your study rights are protected. Use HeadStart Academy to explore more courses and visa information.
Ready to start your counselling career in Australia? Use our resources to find CRICOS-registered courses and apply.
Diploma of Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at EQUINIM COLLEGE 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.