Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114171M) is a Certificate III delivered by Sydney College of Professional Education over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code CHC33021, equips students with the skills to provide person-centred support to the elderly, people with disabilities, and others in need of care. The course is offered in Granville, NSW, a suburb with strong public transport connections and a growing student population. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to Australian Government quality standards under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive a high-quality education. With Australia facing a growing demand for aged and disability support workers, graduates enter a field with strong employment prospects. Sydney College of Professional Education is a private CRICOS-registered provider (04135H) committed to practical, industry-relevant training. This page provides all the key details to help you decide whether this course is right for your study plans in Australia.
This course falls under the field of education '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services', specifically '090509 - Care for the Disabled'. Students learn to support individuals with disabilities, older persons, and those with chronic conditions. Core skills include assisting with personal care, supporting community participation, working with diverse groups, and promoting independence. The curriculum covers ethical practice, communication strategies, and legal responsibilities. Graduates are prepared for roles such as personal care assistant, disability support worker, or community support worker in residential or community settings. This is a general description of what a Certificate III in Individual Support typically covers; for the exact syllabus, contact Sydney College of Professional Education.
The course is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) on a full-time basis. All instruction is in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes and complete assessments to meet AQF Level 3 requirements. The single qualification structure allows focused progression into further study or employment. Students should expect a commitment of approximately 20 hours per week of structured learning, plus self-study.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are: tuition fee A$13,000, non-tuition fee A$700, totaling A$13,700. Additional expenses not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (such as rent, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge. In Sydney, weekly rent ranges from A$250 to $400, groceries around A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50. Always confirm the latest fees with Sydney College of Professional Education via their website, as fees are subject to change.
International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or its equivalent. Some providers may set additional requirements like a pre-training interview or language assessment. For mature-age students or those without formal qualifications, foundation or pathway options may be available. Contact Sydney College of Professional Education for specific entry criteria.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 4 weeks (120 hours total) at 30 hours per week. This industry placement provides hands-on experience in aged care, disability support, or community care settings. Students apply classroom learning in real environments under supervision, developing practical skills and industry connections. The placement is a structured part of the qualification and may require a valid Working with Children Check or police clearance.
The course is delivered at Sydney College of Professional Education campus in Granville, NSW. Granville is in Western Sydney, approximately 25 km from the CBD, well-served by trains and buses. The area has a multicultural community and a growing student population, with many CRICOS-registered providers nearby. Sydney itself has over 400 CRICOS providers and attracts more than 150,000 international students. Studying in Granville offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Parramatta and Sydney City.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) sets the conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa applications.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one, filtering by level, field, and location. 2) Apply directly to the institution: Submit your application to Sydney College of Professional Education, including evidence of your English proficiency and prior qualifications. Check application deadlines and required documents. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, obtain your CoE and submit a visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Granville offers a balanced study experience away from the high costs of Sydney's centre. Rent is typically A$220–$350 per week, and public transport to Parramatta (a major hub) takes 10 minutes. The suburb has parks, shops, and diverse dining. Sydney's overall cost of living is higher than other Australian cities, but Western Sydney provides more affordable options. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and commute when choosing. Granville is also close to cultural attractions and sporting facilities.
Ready to start your journey in Individual Support? Contact Sydney College of Professional Education to apply for CRICOS 114171M today.
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Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney College of Professional Education. 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.