Certificate IV in Disability Support (CRICOS course code 114326H) is a Certificate IV delivered by Phia Education Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to develop practical skills in supporting people with disabilities. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) as at April 2026, it is offered at Hopkins International College in East Perth, Western Australia. The program includes a work component of 6 weeks (approximately 120 total hours) for real-world experience. As an AQF Level 4 qualification, it prepares graduates for roles in disability support services, aged care, and community care. Field of education: 090500 Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.f.d. Indicative tuition is A$12,000, with non-tuition fees of A$750. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register. HeadStart Academy is a free resource covering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states, helping you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
This Certificate IV covers core competencies in human welfare studies and services, focusing on person-centred support for individuals with disabilities. Students learn to develop and implement individualised support plans, assist with personal care, promote community participation, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The curriculum aligns with VET national code CHC43121 and includes theoretical knowledge combined with practical applications. Graduates typically gain skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural competence, essential for roles in disability support, residential care, and community organisations. Course content is designed to meet industry standards and prepare students for work in diverse settings, including group homes, day centres, and in-home support.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. Students are expected to attend classes at Hopkins International College in East Perth, with a combination of classroom learning and practical placement. The full-time study load ensures compliance with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Disability Support at Phia Education Pty Ltd are indicative at A$12,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials) are A$750, bringing the estimated total to A$12,750. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.hopkins.edu.au. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. The Department of Home Affairs recommends international students budget around A$21,041 per year for living costs in Australia (2026 rate), though costs vary by city. In Perth, indicative weekly rent is approximately A$250–350, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate III in Individual Support or a related field. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you need additional preparation – contact Phia Education Pty Ltd for details. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's website as they may vary.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks, with hours per week as specified by the provider (approximately 120 total hours). This involves supervised industry placement or clinical placement in disability support settings such as residential care homes, day centres, or community organisations. Work-integrated learning allows you to apply classroom knowledge in real environments, develop professional networks, and meet industry competency standards. It is a valuable part of the VET qualification and can enhance employability. All placements comply with Australian workplace health and safety regulations.
The course is delivered at Hopkins International College, located in East Perth, Western Australia. East Perth is part of the Perth metropolitan area, a city with over 10,000 international students and many CRICOS-registered providers. Perth offers a higher education environment with good public transport connectivity (bus and train) to the campus. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option. The college is situated near the Swan River and Perth CBD, providing access to amenities and cultural attractions.
To study this course on campus, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire period. Student work rights are currently 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs). You must also demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents (if any). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance but recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Applying for Certificate IV in Disability Support at Phia Education Pty Ltd involves three key steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify that Phia Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04155D) is registered. 2) Apply directly to the institution – meet entry requirements, submit English test scores (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), and provide academic transcripts. Check application deadlines on the provider's website www.hopkins.edu.au. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – include your CoE in the visa application and arrange OSHC. Ensure you have sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
East Perth is a vibrant inner-city suburb with easy access to the Perth CBD and public transport. For international students, the area offers a mix of residential and commercial facilities, including supermarkets, cafes, and parks. Perth has a warm Mediterranean climate and a growing job market in health and community services. However, consider that Perth is geographically isolated from other Australian cities, which may affect travel plans. The cost of living is moderate, with rent typically cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide and 26,433 courses available, you can also compare this course with similar ones in other states using HeadStart Academy's free resources.
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Certificate IV in Disability Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Phia Education 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.