Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 112191A) is a Diploma delivered by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification equips you with the skills to lead and manage early childhood services, design curricula, and support children's development. Sunraysia Institute of TAFE (CRICOS 01985A) is a government-owned provider based in Mildura, Victoria, offering this course at its Mildura campus. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you aim to work as an early childhood educator or pursue further study, this diploma opens doors to rewarding careers in Australia's growing education sector.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 112191A) falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Graduates learn to design and implement educational programs, manage teams, and foster inclusive environments for children from birth to school age. While the specific curriculum is set by Sunraysia Institute of TAFE, typical learning outcomes include developing leadership in early childhood settings, applying legal and ethical frameworks, and promoting children's wellbeing. This qualification aligns with national competency standards (CHC50121) and prepares you for roles such as early childhood centre director, educational leader, or family day care coordinator. Australia's early childhood sector is growing, with strong demand for qualified professionals in metropolitan and regional areas alike. By choosing a CRICOS-registered course like this one, you gain access to ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as an international student are safeguarded. The course also includes a substantial work-integrated learning component, bridging theory and practice.
This Diploma is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study, with instruction in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The indicative tuition fee from the CRICOS register is A$16,068, with no additional non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$16,068. Please note that these fees are set by the institution and subject to change; always confirm directly with Sunraysia Institute of TAFE before applying. This figure does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For reference, living costs in Mildura are generally lower than in major capital cities. As a guide, international students can budget around A$300–400 per week for accommodation, food, and transport, though this is indicative only. For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website at www.sunitafe.edu.au.
Entry requirements for this diploma typically include an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and successful completion of Year 12 or a relevant Certificate III qualification. Applicants without formal qualifications may be considered through recognition of prior learning (RPL). For precise entry criteria, consult Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. A key feature of this course is its work component: 8 weeks of industry placement at 37.5 hours per week, totaling approximately 300 hours. This work-integrated learning involves supervised practical experience in an early childhood setting, such as a daycare centre or preschool. It allows you to apply classroom knowledge, develop professional skills, and build a network in the Australian childcare sector. The placement is integral to meeting competency requirements for the qualification. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can undertake work as part of their course, provided it is a compulsory component. After completing the placement, you'll be better prepared for employment in early childhood education.
This course is delivered at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE's Mildura campus in Victoria. Mildura is a regional city in northwestern Victoria, known for its agricultural industry and community feel. It has a smaller international student population compared to Melbourne, offering a quieter lifestyle and lower cost of living. The campus is accessible by public transport, with options including bus services and cycling. International students studying in Mildura benefit from being in a designated regional area, which may provide advantages for post-study work opportunities. Regarding your Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent for personalised advice.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE is straightforward: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) to confirm this course suits your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution (Sunraysia Institute of TAFE) — ensure you meet entry requirements, arrange English language testing if needed, and check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to pursue the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE? Explore the application process and take the next step towards your international student journey in Australia.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE. 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.