Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 112683C) is a Certificate III delivered by Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks). This qualification is designed for international students seeking a career in aged care, home care, or disability support. It falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090507 - Care for the Aged), providing practical skills to assist elderly individuals in various settings. Offered at the provider's Dandenong campus in Victoria, this course combines classroom learning with a mandatory 6-week work placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian quality standards and allows students to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Lawson College Australia (CRICOS 03406J) is a private institution that welcomes international students. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers in Australia, choosing a registered course ensures your qualification is recognised and your rights are protected under the ESOS Act.
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This course focuses on providing person-centred support to older individuals in residential, home, or community settings. Students learn about aged care principles, communication strategies, and practical care techniques. The curriculum covers topics such as supporting independence, understanding health conditions, and working legally and ethically. Graduates typically find roles as personal care assistants, support workers, or residential care officers. The qualification reflects the skills required for entry-level positions in the aged care sector, with an emphasis on compassion, safety, and cultural sensitivity.
The course duration is 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English by Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes at the Dandenong campus and complete assessments online or in-person. The 65-week duration includes both academic study and the mandatory work placement.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$15,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, visit the Lawson College Australia website at www.lawsoncollege.edu.au.
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent English proficiency) and completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian Certificate II level are generally expected. Lawson College Australia may offer foundation or pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — contact the provider directly for details. All international students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of English language proficiency.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This work-integrated learning is an industry placement in an aged care or community setting, giving students hands-on experience under supervision. Placements are arranged by Lawson College Australia and provide valuable exposure to real-world care environments. This component is essential for developing practical skills and may be counted towards the student's hours of study.
This course is delivered at 53 Walker Street, Dandenong, Victoria. Dandenong is a major suburb of Melbourne, known for its multicultural community and affordable living options. The campus is accessible by public transport, with Dandenong railway station nearby. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and offers a wide range of support services. Indicative living costs in Melbourne include weekly rent of A$200–A$350, groceries around A$80–A$120, and transport costs of A$40–A$60 per week.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. All visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Individual Support at Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Lawson College Australia (CRICOS 03406J) offers the course you want. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — check entry requirements (including English test scores and qualifications), prepare your documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Lawson College Australia will assess your eligibility and issue a Letter of Offer if successful. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once you accept the offer and pay the required deposit, the institution will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs.
The aged care sector in Australia is growing rapidly due to an ageing population, creating strong demand for qualified workers. This course provides a pathway to employment in residential aged care, home care, and community support. Consider whether you enjoy working closely with elderly individuals and have the patience and empathy required. Practical placements offer a chance to experience the work environment firsthand. Also, check if the course leads to industry-recognised certifications such as First Aid. Victoria has a robust aged care industry, with many facilities employing graduates. As an international student, you will benefit from the experience and may be eligible for post-study work rights if you graduate.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your options for studying Certificate III in Individual Support in Australia with HeadStart Academy — your free guide to CRICOS-registered courses.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lawson College Australia 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.