Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 111833B) is a Certificate III delivered by Sydney Metropolitan International College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students seeking to work in the aged care and disability support sectors in Australia. It is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets the quality standards for international education. Sydney Metropolitan International College (CRICOS 03792E) is a private provider based in Sydney's CBD, offering this course with a work-integrated learning component. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide independent, fee-free information to help you compare options across Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 26,000 courses.
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Certificate III in Individual Support (111833B) is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3). It falls within the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services' (Care for the Aged). This course prepares students to provide person-centred support to older people or individuals with disabilities in residential, home, or community settings. The VET national code for this course is CHC33021. Sydney Metropolitan International College Pty Ltd (SMIC) delivers this program at its Sydney CBD campus, with a strong emphasis on practical skills through a mandatory work placement.
The curriculum covers core units such as providing individualised support, supporting independence and wellbeing, communicating effectively in health and community services, and working legally and ethically. Electives may include assisting with medication, supporting people with dementia, and providing first aid. While specific unit outlines should be confirmed with the provider, graduates typically develop skills in personal care, mobility assistance, and documentation. This field of education is aligned with Australia's growing demand for aged care workers, making it a practical pathway for international students seeking employment in the sector.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). Students are expected to attend classes at the SMIC Sydney CBD campus. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration includes scheduled breaks and meets the requirements for student visa holders.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Individual Support at SMIC are A$12,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees (including enrolment, materials, and administration) are A$700, bringing the estimated total to A$12,700. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. International students should budget approximately A$540–$600 per week for living costs in Sydney, covering rent (shared accommodation), groceries, and public transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Sydney Metropolitan International College before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for entry to Certificate III courses. Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent is expected. No prior experience in individual support is required, but students must demonstrate a genuine interest in caring for others. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the English or academic requirements—contact SMIC directly for details. All entry requirements are set by the provider and are subject to CRICOS registration conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 6 weeks of supervised industry placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 120 total hours). This work-integrated learning provides hands-on experience in aged care facilities or community support settings, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments. Placements are arranged by the provider and comply with Australian workplace health and safety standards. This component not only enhances skills but also strengthens employability post-graduation.
The course is delivered at SMIC Sydney CBD Campus: Suite 502 Level 5 545-553 Kent St, SYDNEY NSW 2000. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is centrally located, with easy access to public transport (trains, buses, light rail) and close to major amenities. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities—students should plan for weekly rent of $250–$450, groceries $80–$140, and a public transport concession pass around $30 per week. The city offers a vibrant multicultural environment and strong support networks for international students.
This course is eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of English proficiency, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Sydney offers a robust job market for individual support workers, with a growing aged care sector and numerous private and public facilities. Studying at a CBD campus like SMIC gives you access to placement opportunities across the city. However, consider the higher cost of living compared to regional areas. If you prefer a more affordable lifestyle, other states like Queensland or South Australia may offer lower rents. HeadStart Academy's platform lets you filter by location to compare options. Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and your education is protected under the ESOS Act.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Individual Support at Sydney Metropolitan International College: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Society and Culture), and city (Sydney) to find suitable options. Step 2: Apply directly to Sydney Metropolitan International College. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0–5.5), and a valid passport. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE requirements.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy or contact Sydney Metropolitan International College directly for the most up-to-date information.
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Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metropolitan International 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.