Diploma of Counselling Practice (CRICOS course code 112555M) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors over 1 year. This qualification equips you with foundational skills in counselling to support individuals facing personal challenges. Whether you aim to work in community services, mental health support, or private practice, this course provides a pathway into the human welfare sector. Delivered in Perth, Western Australia, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy and trust.
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Diploma of Counselling Practice (CRICOS course code 112555M) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (CRICOS 04095M), a private provider based in Perth, WA. The course is classified under Field of Education 090513 - Counselling, within the broader Society and Culture area. It is designed for international students seeking a career in counselling and human welfare. The program runs for 52 weeks (1 year) and includes a mandatory work component. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and this course is part of over 26,000 courses available across Australia. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student.
As a Diploma-level qualification, this course introduces you to core counselling theories, ethical practice, communication skills, and client assessment techniques. You will learn to assist clients with personal, social, and emotional issues through evidence-based approaches. The curriculum typically covers topics such as counselling frameworks, crisis intervention, group facilitation, and professional standards. While specific units are set by the provider, graduates emerge with practical skills to work in diverse settings like community agencies, schools, or healthcare. This field is growing in Australia, with high demand for qualified counsellors in both metropolitan and regional areas.
The Diploma of Counselling Practice is completed over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and is not classified as a VET course. The program does not include foundation studies. Full-time enrolment is expected, and classes are conducted at the provider's campus in Perth. The language of instruction ensures international students build professional English proficiency alongside counselling skills.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$21,000, with non-tuition fees of A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$21,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors via their website www.aipc.net.au. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For cost of living guidance, Perth's indicative weekly expenses: rent A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, transport A$30–A$60. HeadStart Academy provides these as estimates only.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and must have completed the equivalent of Australian Year 12. Some providers may require prior study in a related field or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available – refer to the provider for specific prerequisites. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; each application is assessed individually. For accurate and up-to-date entry criteria, consult Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks, 6.2 hours per week (approximately 50 total hours). This takes the form of industry placement, where you apply counselling skills in a real-world setting under supervision. Such placements are integral to building practical competence and often occur in community health centres, aged care facilities, or non-profit organisations. The work component helps you meet professional standards and enhances employability upon graduation.
The course is delivered at 170 Wellington Street, East Perth — West Perth, WA. Perth is the capital of Western Australia, with a vibrant student population and over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering various courses. The city offers excellent public transport (buses, trains, and the free CAT bus network), making campus access convenient. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with a multicultural environment and strong job market in health and community services. HeadStart Academy's data shows Western Australia has 1,556 CRICOS providers nationwide (April 2026).
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). On a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Ensure you maintain your visa conditions, including satisfactory course attendance and progress. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Diploma of Counselling Practice at Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city to confirm this course meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors – Check entry requirements, English test results, and application deadlines on their website www.aipc.net.au. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you have your CoE, submit your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and OSHC requirements.
If you are passionate about helping others and have strong interpersonal skills, this Diploma could be a rewarding path. Consider your career goals: counselling roles are available in schools, hospitals, community agencies, and private practice. Perth offers a supportive study environment with affordable living compared to eastern capitals. However, ensure you are prepared for the emotional demands of client work. Research the local job market and professional registration requirements if you plan to work in Australia post-study.
Ready to start your counselling career? Explore Diploma of Counselling Practice on HeadStart Academy and apply today.
View the full Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors profile →
Diploma of Counselling Practice is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. 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.