Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS 110858A) at First Choice Education

Course Overview

Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS 110858A) is an AQF Level 4 qualification under the field of Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services). It has a VET national code of CHC43015. The course is delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. (CRICOS 03838G), a private provider with campuses in New South Wales and Victoria. The total duration is 34 weeks (approximately 8 months), with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation program. The course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (120 hours) of industry placement, giving students hands-on experience in aged care facilities. As an ESOS Act protected program, international students have legal rights under Australian consumer law. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.

What You'll Study

This Certificate IV in Ageing Support falls under the field of 'Care for the Aged' (090507). Students learn to provide individualised support to older people, work within legal and ethical frameworks, and manage complex care situations. Typical topics include supporting independence and wellbeing, recognising healthy body systems, delivering person-centred care, and leading a team to support people living with dementia. Graduates are prepared for roles such as personal care worker, support worker, or aged care team leader. The course is designed for those who already have some experience or have completed a Certificate III in Individual Support. Note that HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for a specific syllabus, contact FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. directly.

Duration and Study Mode

The CRICOS register lists the duration as 34 weeks (approximately 8 months). This is the full-time, face-to-face study component. Additional breaks may extend the overall timeframe. The language of instruction is English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies attached — this is a standalone Certificate IV. Delivery is on-campus at the provider's locations in Parramatta and Melbourne. Students should expect a mix of classroom learning, simulated labs, and off-site placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the minimum 20 contact hours per week requirement for Student visa holders. The work component (4 weeks) is integrated into the 34-week timetable.

Fees (Indicative – Set by Provider)

The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. is A$16,000. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, or uniform) total A$750, bringing the estimated course cost to A$16,750. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — around A$500–$700 per year for single cover; living expenses — estimated A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs (2026); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always check FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.'s website for the most current fees and any discounts or scholarships.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Typical entry requirements for a Certificate IV level course include completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) and an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. Some providers may also require a Certificate III in Individual Support or relevant work experience. For this course, FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. will assess each applicant individually. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you don't meet the academic or English requirements — contact the provider for options. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend checking your eligibility directly with the institution or consulting a MARA agent for visa-related advice.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work placement of 4 weeks, totalling approximately 120 hours (30 hours per week). This hands-on industry placement is a core part of the qualification, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real aged care settings. Placements are typically arranged by the provider and may be in residential aged care homes, community care organisations, or day centres. The work component is a valuable opportunity to build professional networks and gain Australian workplace experience, which is highly regarded by employers. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for this placement; generally, Student visa holders can undertake work integrated learning as part of their course.

Delivery Locations

FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. delivers this course at two main locations: Parramatta (NSW) and Melbourne (VIC). In Parramatta, classes are held at Level 7, Parramatta, and Levels 1 & 2, 16-18 Wentworth Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. In Melbourne, the campus is at Level 8, 85 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Parramatta is a major western Sydney hub with a large student population and excellent public transport connections. Melbourne's Queen Street campus is in the CBD, close to Flinders Street Station and tram lines. Living costs in Sydney are approximately A$500–$600 per week for rent, while Melbourne is slightly lower at A$400–$500 per week. Both cities offer vibrant multicultural communities and diverse study environments.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, OSHC policy, and enrolment in a full-time course. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term; unlimited during scheduled breaks. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for updates. ESOS Act protections ensure you receive a refund if the provider fails to deliver the course. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only — consult a MARA agent for personal advice.

How to Apply – 3 Steps

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare Certificate IV in Ageing Support courses, filtering by location, fees, and provider type. Ensure the course and provider are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and a statement of purpose. Submit your application through their admissions portal. Meet any specific entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online. Include your OSHC certificate, financial evidence, and GTE statement. For assistance, contact the provider's international student support or a MARA agent.

Is Aged Care Study in Sydney or Melbourne Right for You?

Choosing where to study matters. Sydney (Parramatta) has a larger aged care workforce demand due to its growing population. Melbourne is known for its diverse healthcare sector and lower cost of living. Both cities have many CRICOS-registered providers — over 200 in Sydney and 150 in Melbourne — offering aged care courses. Consider your personal preferences: climate, lifestyle, job opportunities, and proximity to family. Parramatta offers a quieter suburban feel with easy access to the city, while Melbourne's Queen Street campus is in the heart of a bustling cultural capital. Attend open days, talk to current students, and check job placement rates. HeadStart Academy helps you explore options without bias.

Start your application today — contact FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. for the latest intake dates and entry requirements.

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