Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 114399B) is a Certificate IV (AQF Level 4) delivered by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year (52 weeks). This qualification equips students with the skills to provide person-centred support to older individuals, addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 03949M), it meets Australian standards for international students. Delivered in three Victorian locations—South Melbourne, West Melbourne, and Werribee—the course includes a 120-hour work placement for hands-on experience. Indicative total fees are A$17,000 (tuition A$15,000 plus non-tuition A$2,000). Graduates can pursue roles such as aged care worker or personal care assistant in Australia's growing aged care sector.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 114399B) is a Certificate IV qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 4). It is delivered by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03949M). The course falls under the field of education 090507 – Care for the Aged (Society and Culture). It is designed for students who wish to work in aged care, providing support to elderly clients in residential or community settings. The course is offered in English over 1 year (52 weeks) and includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (120 hours). This qualification is ideal for international students seeking practical skills and a pathway to employment in Australia's aged care industry, which has strong demand due to an ageing population.
The Certificate IV in Ageing Support covers knowledge and skills required to provide person-centred care, support independence, and manage complex care needs. Students learn about legal and ethical frameworks, communication strategies, and working with diverse clients. The curriculum typically includes topics such as developing individualised care plans, supporting older people with dementia, and providing palliative care. Practical skills are developed through simulated environments and a workplace placement. Graduates are prepared to supervise staff, coordinate services, and ensure quality care. As a national VET qualification (CHC43015), it aligns with industry standards and regulatory requirements for aged care workers in Australia.
This course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. The study mode is typically full-time, with a combination of classroom learning and practical placements. Students should expect to attend classes at one of the three delivery locations in Victoria: South Melbourne, West Melbourne, or Werribee. The intensive schedule is designed to meet the 120-hour work component spread over 8 weeks, with 15 hours per week dedicated to industry placement.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Ageing Support is A$15,000 for the full course. Non-tuition fees, including enrolment and resource charges, amount to A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$17,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Students should note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated at A$24,000–A$30,000 per year for a single student in Victoria), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500) are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with Riverdale Institute at their official website. All fees are set by the institution and may vary.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for this level. Applicants should hold a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) or a related qualification, or have relevant experience. For direct entry, completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is expected. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet the standard requirements – contact Riverdale Institute for specific options. As an AQF Level 4 course, it assumes a moderate level of academic and language skill. All entry requirements are set by the provider and should be verified at the time of application.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 8 weeks (120 hours) of industry placement at 15 hours per week. This is a practical placement in an aged care setting, such as a residential care facility or community organisation. It allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real client care, develop workplace communication skills, and gain experience under supervision. Placements are arranged by Riverdale Institute but may require students to meet health, police check, and vaccination requirements. This component is integral to the qualification and must be completed for course graduation.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is delivered at three sites in Victoria: Gladstone St South Melbourne (South Melbourne, VIC), Miller St (West Melbourne, VIC), and Unit 19 2-14 Station Pl (Werribee, VIC). Victoria is home to over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers and offers a vibrant student life with access to Melbourne's cultural attractions, excellent public transport, and diverse communities. Living costs in Melbourne for a single student average A$1,200–A$1,500 per month (rent A$800–A$1,200, groceries A$300–A$400, transport A$100–A$150). Each campus location is accessible by public transport, making commuting manageable for international students.
International students studying this course typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term-time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, hold sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay. The Department of Home Affairs may also require evidence of English proficiency. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; always consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for official advice. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund rights.
Victoria is a top destination for international students, with over 300,000 enrolled from around the world. Melbourne, the capital, is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. The state offers a strong aged care sector, with many residential facilities and community services, providing good work placement opportunities. However, living costs in Melbourne are higher than in regional areas like Werribee. Regional Victoria offers more affordable rent and a quieter lifestyle. Consider your preferences for urban versus regional living, access to public transport (Melbourne has trams, trains, and buses), and proximity to your chosen campus. All three campuses are within the Greater Melbourne area, offering ease of travel.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Riverdale Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Riverdale Institute's CRICOS registration (03949M) and course code 114399B. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through Riverdale Institute's website. Provide evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.0–5.5), academic transcripts, and any required prior qualifications. Check application deadlines – intake may be available multiple times per year. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Then apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence. Do not travel to Australia without a valid visa.
Ready to start your aged care career? Apply for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Riverdale Institute today. Use HeadStart Academy to confirm CRICOS registration and get application guidance.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Riverdale 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.