Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 110860G) is a Diploma delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under Society and Culture (Field 09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090515 Welfare Studies). Graduates develop competencies in providing person-centred support, crisis intervention, and case management for people with mental health issues. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is open to international students under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 8 weeks (160 hours) to gain real-world experience. Whether you choose the Parramatta or Melbourne campus, you'll benefit from Australia's robust education framework and ESOS protections. This page uses official CRICOS data as at 1 April 2026 to give you accurate, up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge referral fees. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 110860G) is a Diploma delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking a career in mental health support within community services, healthcare, or social welfare. The syllabus covers foundational theories of mental health, trauma-informed care, and strategies for promoting recovery. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03838G), FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. must meet Australian quality standards, ensuring a recognised qualification. The VET national code CHC53315 also aligns with industry benchmarks. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through a mandatory work component. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), reflecting the most current information available.
This Diploma focuses on Welfare Studies (090515), a subfield of Human Welfare Studies and Services. Graduates learn to assess, plan, and deliver support for individuals with mental health challenges, with an emphasis on empowerment and cultural sensitivity. Typical learning outcomes include communication techniques, case management, crisis intervention, and understanding legal and ethical frameworks. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, this level (AQF Level 5) typically involves complex problem-solving and supervisory skills. Students also develop self-care strategies to maintain resilience in demanding roles. The work component further bridges theory and practice, preparing graduates for roles such as mental health support worker, community services officer, or case manager.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered full-time in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies attached. Students attend classes at the provider's campuses or may have a combination of on-campus and work-based learning. The indicative duration is based on a standard study load; part-time options are not typically available for international students due to visa conditions. Always confirm the exact schedule with FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. as delivery modes can vary by intake.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register: tuition A$24,000, non-tuition fees A$750, giving an estimated total of A$24,750. These figures are set by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. and subject to change. Please visit the provider's website for the most accurate and current fee schedule. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. For indicative living costs, Parramatta (Sydney) weekly rent averages A$350–500, Melbourne A$300–450, with groceries and transport adding A$120–200 per week. Always budget for these extras and consider personal circumstances.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) for this Diploma level. Academic requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or an international equivalent. Prior qualification in a related field may be beneficial but not mandatory. Some courses require a police check or working with children clearance for placements. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry – refer to FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. for options. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are subject to availability.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes the form of an industry placement or clinical placement in a mental health setting. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying communication, assessment, and support skills. Placements can be in community health centres, hospitals, or NGOs. The provider coordinates placement arrangements, but students may need to meet site-specific requirements (e.g., immunisations, police check). This component is integral to developing professional competence and employability.
FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. delivers this course at three locations: Level 7 Parramatta and Levels 1 & 2 16-18 Wentworth Street Parramatta NSW 2150, and Level 8 85 Queen St Melbourne VIC 3000. Parramatta is a major education hub in Sydney's west, home to many CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The campuses are near public transport (trains, buses, light rail) and offer easy access to amenities. Melbourne's campus is centrally located on Queen Street, close to libraries, cafes, and transport connections. Both cities have diverse student populations and robust infrastructure. When choosing a location, consider your preferred lifestyle, accommodation costs, and career networks.
To study this CRICOS-registered course, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition assurance and refund rights. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for your chosen course:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to compare Diploma of Mental Health courses. Verify that FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. (CRICOS 03838G) is registered and offering 110860G.
2. Apply directly to FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.: Check the entry requirements – typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 and Year 12 completion. Prepare your documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results, and any supporting letters). Submit your application through the provider's admissions portal before the deadline.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via ImmiAccount. Don't forget to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview. Once approved, you can plan your travel to Australia.
Ready to take the next step? Browse more Diploma courses in Australia on HeadStart Academy, or contact FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. directly for application details.
Diploma of Mental Health is a CRICOS-registered programme at FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION 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.