Are you an international student dreaming of a career in fashion design? The Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (CRICOS course code 114604B) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This course sits at AQF Level 5 and belongs to the field of Fashion Design (100505). TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for vocational training in Australia. The course is offered at two Queensland locations: Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast and Mount Gravatt in Brisbane. With indicative tuition fees of A$24,500 and no mandatory work component, this qualification equips you with practical skills in garment construction, pattern making, textiles, and fashion business. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses — and this diploma is one of the few fashion-focused options available. As you explore your study options, remember that all CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student. Read on for detailed information on fees, entry requirements, locations, and how to apply.
Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (CRICOS course code 114604B) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This qualification is classified under the field of Graphic and Design Studies (1005) with a focus on Fashion Design (100505). As an AQF Level 5 Diploma, it provides a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for roles such as fashion designer, pattern maker, or textile product developer. The course is listed on the official CRICOS register (April 2026 update), ensuring its quality and compliance with Australian standards. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned provider, meaning you benefit from public sector oversight and industry connections. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The VET national code for this course is MST50122.
In the Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles, you will develop advanced skills in fashion design and production. The curriculum typically covers areas such as garment construction, pattern making, draping, textiles science, fashion illustration, and trend forecasting. You'll also learn about fashion business operations, quality assurance, and sustainable practices. While HeadStart Academy does not provide the specific syllabus, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate initiative and judgment in planning, design, and technical or management functions. The course is delivered in English, and you will work on projects that simulate real industry scenarios. This field is ideal for creative individuals who want to turn their passion for fashion into a career.
The Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles is delivered over 51 weeks (approximately 12 months) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies are included. The course is designed for full-time study, and you will need to attend classes at one of the two campus locations. There is no online or distance learning option listed for this course. The duration may vary depending on your study pace, but the CRICOS registration indicates 51 weeks as the standard.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles is A$24,500. There are no non-tuition fees listed, so the estimated total is A$24,500. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. Always confirm the latest fees directly with TAFE Queensland on their official website (www.tafeqld.edu.au). The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. As a guide, international students in Queensland should budget approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. The cost of living varies by city — Brisbane is generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne.
To enrol in this diploma, you will need to meet TAFE Queensland's entry requirements. The English language requirement is typically IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). You should also hold a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV in a related field. Some prior experience in fashion or design may be beneficial. If you do not meet the academic requirements, TAFE Queensland may offer pathway programs or foundation studies — check with the provider directly. Remember, these are general guidelines; the final decision rests with TAFE Queensland. For visa purposes, you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component, so you are not required to undertake a placement or internship as part of your studies. However, you may still be eligible to work part-time under your student visa conditions — up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check your visa conditions and consult a registered migration agent if unsure.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Queensland: - Mooloolaba — Mountain Creek, QLD (Sunshine Coast region) - Mount Gravatt — MT GRAVATT, QLD (Brisbane region)
Queensland is a popular destination for international students, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers across the state. The Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba) offers a relaxed beachside lifestyle with a growing student population, while Mount Gravatt is close to Brisbane's city centre, providing access to public transport, shopping, and cultural attractions. Both campuses are well-served by bus and train networks. Living costs in these areas are moderate — expect weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–350.
International students studying this course on a full-time basis will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study at a CRICOS-registered institution, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during scheduled holidays), and bring eligible family members. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. When applying for the visa, you will need to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and meet health and character requirements. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — always consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Choosing the right state for your studies is a big decision. Queensland is known for its warm climate, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. Brisbane, the state capital, is home to over 100,000 international students and offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The Sunshine Coast, where the Mooloolaba campus is located, is famous for its beaches and outdoor lifestyle. Both locations have excellent public transport and are close to shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you enjoy a balance of urban and nature experiences, Queensland could be a great fit. However, consider factors like proximity to the fashion industry (most industry hubs are in Sydney and Melbourne) and climate preferences. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting the campus or virtual tour before applying.
Applying for this course involves three straightforward steps. Follow this guide to start your journey:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — Filter by course level, field, and city. HeadStart Academy makes it easy to compare courses and providers. Ensure the provider (TAFE Queensland) is CRICOS-registered (code 03020E).
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — Check entry requirements, arrange your English language test (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application through TAFE Queensland's website. Pay attention to application deadlines and required documents (transcripts, passport, etc.).
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once TAFE Queensland issues your CoE, you can apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and a genuine temporary entrant statement.
Ready to take the next step? Research more courses or contact TAFE Queensland directly to apply. Start your fashion career in Australia today!
Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.