Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114640J) is a Certificate III delivered by Gordon Institute of TAFE over 35 weeks (~8 months). This qualification equips students with the skills to provide person-centred support to people in aged care, home and community care, and disability services. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider ID 00011G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students seeking to study in Australia. Gordon Institute of TAFE, a government-owned institution with campuses in Geelong and Werribee, offers this course as part of Australia's Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and access to student visa pathways. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this qualification is a trusted pathway into Australia's growing aged care sector.
Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 114640J) is a Certificate III delivered by Gordon Institute of TAFE over 35 weeks (~8 months). This qualification, with national VET code CHC33021, falls under the field of education 090507 - Care for the Aged, within the broader Society and Culture discipline (0905). Graduates are prepared to work in aged care facilities, home care, and community settings, providing support with daily living activities, personal care, and social inclusion. The course includes a compulsory work component of 120 hours, ensuring hands-on industry experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment and aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3). All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026.
This course focuses on developing practical skills in aged care support. Students learn to provide individualised care, assist with personal hygiene, mobility support, and promote independence. The curriculum covers communication strategies, cultural sensitivity, and legal and ethical considerations in aged care. While specific unit content may vary, typical topics include supporting people with dementia, palliative care approaches, and working effectively in a team. The course combines classroom learning with simulated environments and a mandatory industry placement. This field is critical due to Australia's ageing population, creating strong demand for qualified individual support workers.
The course runs for 35 weeks (~8 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). This is a full-time VET program, typically delivered through face-to-face classes at Gordon Institute of TAFE campuses. Students are expected to commit to scheduled classes and independent study. The course includes a 4-week work component (30 hours per week) for a total of 120 hours of industry placement. This practical experience is integral to the qualification and is arranged by the provider.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026), are: tuition A$13,000, non-tuition fees A$540, estimated total A$13,540. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change—always confirm directly with Gordon Institute of TAFE before applying. The provider's website is http://www.gordontafe.edu.au/. ESOS Act protections ensure international students receive a refund if course changes occur.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent). Prior academic requirements generally include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas. Students must demonstrate English proficiency and meet any prerequisites set by the provider. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if qualifications do not meet entry standards—consult Gordon Institute of TAFE for specific options. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with the provider for detailed entry criteria.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks at 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This industry placement typically occurs in aged care facilities, home care settings, or community support organisations. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, allowing students to apply classroom learning in real-world environments. This component is a key part of the qualification and enhances employability. Students are responsible for meeting placement requirements, including any health clearances or police checks.
This course is delivered at three campuses: 180 Princess Street, Werribee VIC; 24 Watton St, WERRIBEE, VIC; and Gordon Institute of TAFE - GEELONG, GEELONG, VIC. Werribee, located in Melbourne's outer west, is a growing suburb with affordable living costs (indicative weekly rent $250-$350 for shared accommodation) and good public transport via train and bus. Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, offers a vibrant student community and lower cost of living (rent $200-$300 per week). Both cities have multiple CRICOS-registered providers, and Geelong in particular is known for its strong community feel and proximity to beaches. Students can choose a campus that best suits their lifestyle.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating financial capacity for tuition and living costs. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to current visa regulations). The ESOS Act provides consumer protections, including tuition refunds in case of provider default. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Society and Culture), and city (Geelong or Werribee). 2) Apply directly to Gordon Institute of TAFE: Meet entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts), submit application via the provider's website, and adhere to deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Aged care is a growing sector in Australia, with strong demand for qualified workers. Consider location: Geelong offers a regional lifestyle with lower living costs, while Werribee is closer to Melbourne. Both cities have good transport links. Also think about career outcomes: this course can lead to roles like personal care assistant, home care worker, or aged care support worker. Further study pathways include Certificate IV in Ageing Support or Diploma of Community Services. Finally, check registration fees and OSHC costs, which add to the overall budget. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, with data from the official CRICOS register.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Gordon Institute of TAFE directly.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Gordon Institute of TAFE. 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.