Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 111854H) is a Certificate IV delivered by Penfold College Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification is designed for those seeking to provide person-centred support to older people in residential, home, and community care settings. As part of the Society and Culture field (Human Welfare Studies), graduates learn to assist with daily living, promote independence, and understand aged care regulations. Penfold College is a CRICOS-registered private provider (03946C) located in Melbourne, one of Australia's most popular student destinations. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — ensuring you get reliable, up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers, with no referral fees.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support (111854H) is a nationally recognised qualification (VET code CHC43015) at AQF Level 4. It prepares students for roles such as aged care worker, personal care assistant, or disability support worker. The course focuses on developing skills to address the complex needs of ageing individuals, including palliative care, dementia support, and legal and ethical responsibilities. Penfold College Pty Ltd delivers this program over 26 weeks (full-time) in Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Penfold meets the high standards required to enrol international students. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and all listed institutions are subject to ESOS Act protections for international students.
This Certificate IV (AQF Level 4) covers the competencies required for professional aged care. You will learn about individualised support planning, complex care coordination, and working with diverse populations. The curriculum typically includes subjects such as 'Support independence and wellbeing', 'Implement interventions with older people at risk of falls', and 'Provide support to people living with dementia'. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through a work component. Graduates are prepared to work in residential aged care facilities, community care organisations, and home care services. As the aged care sector grows, qualified professionals are in high demand across Australia, particularly in cities like Melbourne with large ageing populations.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as indicated on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation component). Classes are likely held at Penfold College's campus in Melbourne. While the CRICOS register does not specify delivery mode, Certificate IV courses typically involve face-to-face learning, workshops, and supervised practical placements. International students should be prepared for a structured schedule with regular assessments.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Penfold College Pty Ltd are approximately A$10,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000 (including materials, uniforms, etc.), giving an estimated total of A$12,000. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$2,000–$2,500 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Always confirm current fees directly with Penfold College at their official website. HeadStart Academy does not set fees and bears no responsibility for changes.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for Certificate IV entry. Prior academic requirements may include completion of Year 12 or a Certificate III qualification. Penfold College may also require a police check or working with children check due to the nature of aged care work. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements — contact the provider for details. Note: Entry requirements are set by the institution; always refer to Penfold College's official admissions page. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa-specific advice.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 3 weeks, totalling approximately 120 hours (hours per week not specified in CRICOS). This work-integrated learning is typically an industry placement or clinical placement in an aged care setting. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments. Placements are arranged by the provider, but students may need to meet certain pre-placement requirements (e.g., vaccination, police clearance). This practical component is crucial for building competence and employability in the aged care sector.
The course is delivered at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student community of over 250,000 international students. It boasts excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting the campus to suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and Southbank. Melbourne has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering aged care courses, reflecting high demand. Living costs are higher than regional areas but competitive with Sydney. The city also offers diverse cultural experiences and strong job prospects in healthcare.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course. Under current conditions, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. Financial capacity evidence is required — typically covering tuition, travel, and living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year for a single student). Note: Australia’s ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare Certificate IV in Ageing Support courses from CRICOS-registered providers like Penfold College Pty Ltd. Filter by course level, field, and city to find your ideal option. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Penfold College's official website or contact their admissions team. Ensure you meet entry requirements (English test score, academic records). Submit your application and any required documents before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via ImmiAccount. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Processing times vary — apply early.
Melbourne is a top destination for international students, with a large healthcare sector and numerous aged care facilities offering placement opportunities. The city has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers in human welfare courses, providing a competitive learning environment. Living costs are higher than regional areas — budget around A$400–$500 per week for rent (shared apartment) and $150–$200 for groceries and transport. Melbourne's multicultural population means diverse care settings for practical experience. However, consider that living in a major city can be more expensive; regional areas may have lower costs and higher demand for aged care workers. Weigh your preferences carefully.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Penfold 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.