Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 113039A) is a Certificate III delivered by Signet Institute of Australia over 1 year. This qualification is designed for those entering the aged care and disability support sector, equipping students with practical skills to assist elderly and vulnerable individuals in residential or community settings. As part of Australia's Human Welfare Studies and Services field, the course covers topics like person-centred care, communication, and support independence. With a work component of 120 hours, students gain real-world experience. Signet Institute offers this course in three Australian cities, making it accessible for international students across Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.
This Certificate III focuses on human welfare studies and services, specifically care for the aged (field 090507). Students learn to provide person-centred support, assist with daily living activities, and promote independence. Core units cover communication, health and safety, legal and ethical considerations, and working with diverse groups. Graduates typically work as personal care assistants or in similar roles in aged care facilities or home care settings. The practical nature of the course ensures readiness for industry requirements.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Students must attend classes as per the provider's schedule. No online or part-time options are specified, so full-time on-campus study is expected.
Tuition fees are A$12,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,500, giving an estimated total of A$13,500. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Fees are set by Signet Institute of Australia and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider via their website www.acfe.edu.au. For cost of living, international students in Melbourne, Adelaide, or Sydney should budget approximately A$500–700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport.
Applicants are generally expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. English language proficiency is required: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). No specific foundation or pathway studies are linked to this course; check with Signet Institute for any bridging options. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission.
The course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks at 20 hours per week (~120 hours total). This involves an industry placement in aged care or community support settings, providing supervised practical experience. Work-integrated learning helps students apply theoretical knowledge and develop professional competencies required for employment.
This course is delivered at three campuses: 341 Queen Street in Melbourne (VIC), KFI - Adelaide in Adelaide (SA), and KFI - Sydney in Forest Lodge (NSW). Each location offers access to a major Australian city with diverse student populations and public transport. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest centres for international students, while Adelaide offers a more affordable lifestyle. The specific campus provider may differ; ensure you apply to the correct campus of Signet Institute.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Individual Support at Signet Institute of Australia: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter providers by course level, field, and city. Confirm Signet Institute's CRICOS registration (03377J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (including English test scores) and submit your application through Signet Institute's website or their admissions office. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a visa, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney each offer unique benefits. Melbourne is known for its vibrant culture and has over 150,000 international students. Sydney has a high cost of living but strong aged care sector demand. Adelaide is more affordable, with weekly rent around A$400–500 compared to A$600+ in Sydney. All cities have reliable public transport connecting campuses. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and job market when choosing.
Ready to start your individual support career? Explore CRICOS-registered providers and courses at HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Signet Institute of Australia. 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.