Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114351G) is a Certificate III delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 36 weeks (~8 months). This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work in the community and health support sectors, providing person-centered care to clients in residential, home, or community settings. The course covers essential skills such as supporting independence, understanding legal and ethical frameworks, and working effectively with diverse populations. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02934D) is a private provider with campuses in Adelaide and North Melbourne, offering a practical pathway into Australia's growing aged care and disability support industries.
This course falls under the field of education 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services, focusing on human welfare studies and services not further defined. At Certificate III level, students gain foundational knowledge and practical skills to support individuals with daily living activities, including personal care, social support, and community participation. The curriculum typically covers topics such as communication techniques, infection control, manual handling, and understanding individualised care plans. Graduates are prepared for roles like personal care assistant, support worker, or community companion, working under supervision in aged care facilities, disability services, or home care settings. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabus details, this qualification aligns with CHC33021, the national VET code for Certificate III in Individual Support, ensuring consistency across registered training organisations.
According to the CRICOS register, this course is 36 weeks long (approximately 8 months) with instruction in English. It is a single qualification, not part of a dual award or foundation studies program. The standard study load is full-time, allowing international students to meet student visa conditions. Southern Cross Education Institute delivers face-to-face learning at its campuses, with a focus on hands-on training and theoretical knowledge. Students should expect a commitment of around 20–25 contact hours per week, plus additional self-study and assessment preparation.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Individual Support at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd is A$7,500, with non-tuition fees of A$830 (covering materials, administration, and other charges), bringing the estimated total to A$8,330. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change—always confirm directly with the institution at www.scei.com.au. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For example, OSHC can range from A$500–$1,000 per year, and living costs in Adelaide average around A$400–$500 per week, while in Melbourne they are slightly higher at A$450–$600 per week, according to the Department of Home Affairs indicative figures.
For international students, Southern Cross Education Institute typically requires an IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Applicants should have completed Year 10 or its equivalent in their home country. Additional prerequisites may include a police check or working with children check, as the course involves practical placements. No foundation studies pathways are offered within this CRICOS registration, but the provider may have alternative entry arrangements—contact SCEI directly for details. Meeting the English requirement is critical for visa eligibility under the Student visa (Subclass 500) regime.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 3 weeks, totalling approximately 120 hours (40 hours per week). This practical placement gives students real-world experience in an aged care facility, disability support centre, or community health setting. Work-integrated learning is a key feature of vocational courses in Australia, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision while building industry networks. Placements are arranged by the institution, subject to provider availability and student eligibility (e.g., valid visa, health checks). This component is integral to the qualification and must be completed to graduate.
Certificate III in Individual Support is offered at three CRICOS-registered locations: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA; 155-161 Boundary Road, North Melbourne, VIC; and 41 Boundary Road, North Melbourne, VIC. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is home to over 170 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population of around 40,000 international students—known for its affordable living costs and vibrant culture. North Melbourne, part of inner-city Melbourne, lies within a city hosting over 640 registered providers and Australia's largest international student community (over 250,000 students). Both campuses are accessible by public transport, with Adelaide's location near the city centre and North Melbourne's close to tram and train services. Choosing between Adelaide and Melbourne depends on personal preference for city size, climate, and lifestyle; HeadStart Academy's location guides can help you decide.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern Cross Education Institute, maintaining adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria. While studying, visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Post-study work options for Certificate III level are limited, but graduates may be eligible for temporary graduate visas if they progress to higher-level qualifications. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs for the latest policy, and seek advice from a registered migration agent (MARA) for your specific circumstances. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
When choosing between the Adelaide and Melbourne campuses, consider factors beyond the classroom. Adelaide offers a lower cost of living—weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$150–$250, groceries around A$80–$120, and public transport A$40–$60 with a student concession. Melbourne's rent is higher (A$200–$400 per week for a share house), but the city boasts a larger job market and more diverse social opportunities. Both cities have strong aged care and disability sectors, ensuring ample placement opportunities. Adelaide's smaller size means quieter study environments, while Melbourne provides a bustling multicultural experience. Use HeadStart Academy's city guides to explore further.
Ready to start your journey in Individual Support? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and providers, then apply directly to Southern Cross Education Institute.
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Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute 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.