Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114359K) is a Certificate III delivered by EQUALS International (Aust) Pty Ltd over 30 weeks (~7 months). This course is registered under VET national code CHC33021 and focuses on care for the aged, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in aged care facilities, home care, or community settings. Delivered in Adelaide, South Australia, the program combines classroom-based learning with a 4-week work placement (120 hours), ensuring students gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. As a CRICOS-registered provider (02804C), EQUALS International meets strict Australian Government standards for international student education. This page provides you with all the essential details: fees, duration, entry requirements, delivery locations, and step-by-step guidance on applying for your student visa. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
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Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114359K) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification in the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. The course is designed for individuals seeking to work in aged care, disability support, or home and community care. EQUALS International (Aust) Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02804C) delivers this program in Adelaide, South Australia, across two locations: 54 Currie Street and 81 Currie Street. The course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies, meaning it directly prepares you for entry-level employment. With a strong focus on practical skills, the course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (120 hours) in an aged care setting. Graduates may pursue roles such as personal care worker, support worker, or home care assistant. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is a popular choice for international students interested in the growing aged care sector.
Certificate III in Individual Support covers the essential skills and knowledge required to provide individualised support to people in need, particularly the elderly. The curriculum typically includes topics such as working with diverse people, following safe work practices, providing personal care support, supporting independence and wellbeing, and facilitating the empowerment of older people. While specific subjects are set by EQUALS International, the course aligns with the national competency standards under CHC33021. Students learn through a combination of classroom learning, simulations, and workplace practice. The field of education (090507 - Care for the Aged) ensures graduates are equipped to support the physical, emotional, and social needs of aged individuals. This qualification is recognised across Australia, and graduates often find employment in residential aged care facilities, community organisations, and private home care services.
The course is delivered over 30 weeks (approximately 7 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification only, not combined with any other course. Delivery locations are in the Adelaide CBD at 54 Currie Street and 81 Currie Street, both easily accessible by public transport. Students are expected to attend classes during the week, and the course may involve some self-directed study. The duration includes the 4-week work placement component, which is integrated into the program. Adelaide is home to a vibrant student community with over 30,000 international students, and the city offers a range of accommodation options, from shared apartments to purpose-built student housing. Typical living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with weekly rent for a share house around A$180–250, groceries A$60–80, and a public transport pass A$30–40.
The indicative fees for this course at EQUALS International (Aust) Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition A$8,450, non-tuition fees A$545, making an estimated total of A$8,995. Please note that these fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with EQUALS International by visiting their website at www.equals.edu.au. The tuition fee covers the cost of training and assessment, while non-tuition fees may include enrolment, material, or administration charges. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. As a guide, OSHC costs approximately A$500–600 per year for a single student, and the visa application fee is currently A$710. International students are also required to demonstrate evidence of funds to meet living costs – A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
General entry requirements for Certificate III in Individual Support at EQUALS International include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may require a police check or working with children check due to the nature of the work. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable to this specific course. International students who do not meet the English requirement may consider enrolling in an ELICOS program offered by the same provider or another CRICOS-registered institution. It is essential to check with EQUALS International for the most up-to-date entry requirements, as they can change. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only; we recommend confirming directly with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 4 weeks, 30 hours per week (approximately 120 total hours). This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement in an aged care facility, such as a nursing home or community care setting. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying the skills learned in class to real-world scenarios. The placement is a requirement for course completion and helps students build confidence and professional networks. Work placements are usually arranged by the provider in partnership with local care organisations. International students must comply with their visa conditions during the placement – for example, work hours do not count towards the student visa work limits if the placement is a mandatory part of the course. However, if the placement is paid, it may be counted. Always check with the Department of Home Affairs regarding work rights specific to your situation.
The course is delivered at two locations in Adelaide, South Australia: 54 Currie Street and 81 Currie Street. Both are in the heart of Adelaide's CBD, within walking distance of the Adelaide Railway Station and numerous bus stops. Adelaide is Australia's fifth-largest city, with a population of 1.3 million, and is known for its affordable cost of living and high-quality education institutions. There are over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in South Australia, offering a wide range of courses. Students studying in Adelaide enjoy a safe, multicultural environment and access to world-class amenities. The city has a thriving international student community, with support services available through institutions and the state government.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a short period after. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, which assesses your intention to genuinely stay temporarily for study. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. However, the work must not compromise your studies. It's also important to note that Australia’s Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition fee protection and access to complaints processes. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personalised visa advice.
Adelaide offers a unique study experience with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. The city is known for its festivals, food scene, and proximity to beaches and wine regions. With a diverse population and strong international student community, you'll find support networks easily. Adelaide's public transport system is efficient, and the study locations on Currie Street are central. Consider your preference for a smaller city vibe versus the hustle of larger capitals. The aged care sector in South Australia is growing, with increasing demand for qualified workers, which may offer part-time employment opportunities during and after your studies. We recommend checking current job market conditions and talking to current students or alumni to see if Adelaide fits your lifestyle.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Individual Support at EQUALS International:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Society and Culture), and city (Adelaide). Confirm that EQUALS International (CRICOS 02804C) is the right provider for you.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Visit www.equals.edu.au to check entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, English test results, etc.). You may need to demonstrate financial capacity.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500):** Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online (ImmiAccount). Ensure you have OSHC arranged and meet health and character requirements. For visa help, consult a MARA-registered migration agent.
Ready to start your journey? Visit www.equals.edu.au or apply through HeadStart Academy today.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at EQUALS International (Aust) 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.