Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (CRICOS course code 111387H) is a Certificate III delivered by Helix College Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to enter the health industry as assistants in hospitals, aged care, or community health settings. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under provider code 03935F, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With an indicative total fee of A$7,990 (tuition A$6,000 plus non-tuition A$1,990), this program offers a pathway to a rewarding career in health services. Delivered at Helix College's Melbourne campus on Little Collins Street, students benefit from Melbourne's vibrant student community and excellent public transport. The course includes a mandatory work component of 120 hours, providing real-world experience. International students should note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are additional. HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping you compare CRICOS-registered providers and courses—always verify fees directly with the institution.
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This Certificate III level course falls under the field of Education 06 - Health, specifically 'Other Health' (0699) and 'Health, n.e.c.' (069999). Typically, at this AQF Level 3, students develop a range of technical and communication skills to support health professionals in various settings. Graduates learn to assist with patient care, maintain hygiene standards, handle medical equipment, and support team-based health services. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical competencies, though specific units are set by Helix College. It is a single qualification (not dual) and does not include foundation studies. The VET national code is HLT33115. This course is ideal for those aiming to work as assistants in nursing, patient support, or community health roles in Australia's growing health sector.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not incorporate foundation studies. Study mode is likely full-time (standard for international student visa holders), but students should confirm timetables directly with Helix College. The duration includes both classroom learning and a 6-week work placement component (see Work component section for details).
The indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) are: tuition A$6,000, non-tuition fees A$1,990 (which may include application, materials, or admin charges), giving an estimated total of A$7,990. These are set by Helix College and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website or by contacting them directly. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory for international students, typically A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses — Melbourne's indicative weekly rent is A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$40–A$60 (students may receive a concession); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). The ESOS Act protects your fees through the Tuition Protection Service in case of provider default.
For international students, typical entry requirements for this Certificate III level include: IELTS overall 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent TOEFL/PTE), completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas qualification, and any prerequisites specific to health courses (e.g., clearance checks or vaccinations may be required for placements). Helix College may set additional requirements — always refer to their website. Foundation or pathway options: If you don't meet English or academic requirements, some providers offer VET pathway programs. Consult the provider for the most accurate information. HeadStart Academy does not assess qualifications; we recommend using the official CRICOS register for provider details.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 6 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This typically takes the form of industry placement or clinical placement in a hospital, aged care facility, or community health setting. It allows students to apply skills in a real healthcare environment under supervision, which is crucial for building practical competence and career readiness. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake this placement as part of their course. Note that the placement does not count toward the 48 hours per fortnight work limit, as it is a compulsory component of the course.
The course is delivered at Level 1 & 2, Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. This is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, surrounded by universities, hospitals, and transport hubs. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 5 million people, including a large student population from across the globe. The city has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Public transport is excellent: Flinders Street Station and trams are minutes away. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney; expect weekly rent of A$300–A$500 for shared accommodation. The city is known for its multicultural atmosphere, café culture, and strong economy, particularly in health and education sectors.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — must be maintained for the duration of your visa; and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (check your visa conditions). Upon completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the two-year study requirement. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for personalized advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Health Services Assistance at Helix College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Health), and location (Melbourne) on HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS website. 2. Apply directly to Helix College — Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 5.0–5.5), and any other documents requested. Check application deadlines and submit your application through the college's admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, OSHC details, financial evidence, and GTE statement. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change).
Melbourne is often ranked one of the world's most liveable cities, with a strong focus on education, health, and innovation. For health students, Melbourne offers abundant clinical placement opportunities due to its extensive hospital network (e.g., Royal Melbourne Hospital, Alfred Health). The city is home to over 150,000 international students, creating a diverse and supportive community. However, consider the cost of living: rent is higher than some regional cities, and part-time work may be competitive. Public transport is excellent but requires a Myki card; students get concession fares. If you prefer a quieter environment, regional providers might be an option. Weigh these factors against your personal preferences and career goals. HeadStart Academy provides data on all CRICOS-registered providers to help you compare.
Ready to start your health career in Australia? Compare CRICOS-registered health courses across Victoria on HeadStart Academy. Filter by provider, duration, and fees—all free, no referral fees.
Certificate III in Health Services Assistance is a CRICOS-registered programme at Helix 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.