Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114536J) is a Certificate III delivered by Holmesglen Institute over 26 weeks (~6 months). This VET qualification (CHC33021) prepares you for a rewarding career in aged care, disability support, home and community care. You'll develop practical skills to assist clients with daily living activities, promote independence, and provide person-centred care. Holmesglen Institute is a government-owned TAFE and a CRICOS-registered provider (00012G) with a strong reputation for vocational education. As an international student, you'll benefit from Australia's ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. This course includes a 4-week work placement, giving you real industry experience. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, choosing a CRICOS-registered course is your first step to studying in Australia. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This qualification belongs to the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090507 - Care for the Aged). You'll learn to provide support to older people in residential or community settings, focusing on individualised care, communication, and safety. Core units cover topics such as supporting independence and wellbeing, facilitating the empowerment of older people, and following safe work practices. While specific syllabus details are set by Holmesglen Institute, graduates at this level typically gain skills in client assessment, care planning, and working within a legal and ethical framework. This course is ideal for those seeking to enter the aged care sector, which has strong demand in Australia due to an ageing population.
The course runs for 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) as indicated on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation course). Full-time study is expected, with face-to-face classes at the Chadstone Campus. The course structure includes both theoretical learning and practical training, ensuring you gain comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills.
Tuition fees are A$8,450, with no additional non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$8,450. Please note: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Holmesglen Institute via their website (www.holmesglen.edu.au). For cost-of-living guidance, Melbourne's weekly expenses (rent, groceries, transport) range from A$400 to A$600, depending on lifestyle.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent) and must have completed Australian Year 11 or equivalent (AQF Level 2). Holmesglen Institute may have additional prerequisites, such as a police check or working with children check due to the nature of the work. Foundation studies are not part of this course. Always check the provider's specific entry requirements before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work placement of 4 weeks, totalling approximately 120 hours (30 hours per week). This industry placement gives you real-world experience in aged care or community settings under supervision. It is an integral part of the qualification, allowing you to apply classroom learning in a practical environment and build professional networks.
Classes are held at Holmesglen's Chadstone Campus in Chadstone, Victoria. Chadstone is a suburb in Melbourne's south-east, home to Chadstone Shopping Centre — one of Australia's largest shopping malls. The campus is accessible by public transport, with trains and buses connecting to Melbourne's CBD (about 30 minutes by train). Melbourne has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant international student community with diverse cultural events and support services.
To study this course on campus, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, and show sufficient financial capacity. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, known for its cultural diversity, world-class education, and high quality of life. It consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities. With over 150,000 international students, you'll find strong support networks and multicultural communities. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300. Public transport is extensive, with trams, trains, and buses. The aged care sector in Victoria is growing, offering good job prospects after graduation. However, you should consider your personal preferences for climate (cool winters, mild summers) and lifestyle when choosing Melbourne.
Ready to start your journey? Research more CRICOS-registered courses or contact Holmesglen Institute directly through their website.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmesglen Institute. 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.