Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 115219C) is a Certificate III delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students seeking entry-level roles in aged care, disability support, and home care. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00172B), Mercury Colleges ensures the course meets Australian education standards and ESOS Act protections. With delivery locations in Sydney and Adelaide, this course combines classroom learning with a 6-week work placement to build practical skills.
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Certificate III in Individual Support (115219C) is an AQF Level 3 qualification in the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599). Students learn to provide person-centered support to individuals in residential, home, or community settings. The course covers communication, infection control, and safety protocols, with a focus on supporting older people or those with disabilities. Graduates can work as personal care assistants or support workers in Australia's growing aged care and disability sectors.
The curriculum combines theoretical units with practical training in areas such as individualised support, legal and ethical compliance, and workplace health and safety. Students develop skills to assist with daily living activities, promote independence, and respond to emergency situations. While specific units are set by Mercury Colleges, typical subjects include 'Provide individualised support', 'Support independence and wellbeing', and 'Work with diverse people'. The course aligns with the national VET competency standard CHC33021.
The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) full-time, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Classes are delivered face-to-face at Mercury Colleges campuses in Sydney and Adelaide. Students should expect a mix of classroom sessions, simulation activities, and off-site work placement.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Individual Support at Mercury Colleges are A$12,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling approximately A$13,000. These are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student in Sydney/Adelaide), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with Mercury Colleges at www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au.
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent English test). Prior qualifications: students should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. No prior experience in the field is required, but a passion for helping others is beneficial. For specific academic or English entry criteria, refer directly to Mercury Colleges. Foundation or pathway options are not offered for this course, but the provider may have alternative entry arrangements.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 6 weeks of supervised industry placement at 20 hours per week (≈120 total hours). This work-integrated learning takes place in aged care facilities, disability services, or community care settings. It allows students to apply classroom knowledge, build Australian workplace experience, and develop professional references. The placement is arranged by Mercury Colleges in collaboration with partner organisations.
Mercury Colleges delivers this course at multiple campuses: Level 5, 245 Castlereagh St – Sydney, NSW; Lvl 1, 12 Butler Road – Hurstville, NSW; Lvls 1 & 2, 245-247 Castlereagh Street – Sydney, NSW; and Suite 1, Lvl 4, 68 Grenfell St – Adelaide, SA. Sydney and Adelaide are major student cities with extensive public transport networks. Sydney has over 600 CRICOS-registered providers, while Adelaide has over 100. Living costs are higher in Sydney (weekly rent ~A$450) than Adelaide (~A$300), but both offer vibrant multicultural communities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: 48 hours per fortnight work rights during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks; maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration; demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status; and provide evidence of financial capacity. The ESOS Act protects students' tuition fees and study rights. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
NSW hosts over 150,000 international students and offers diverse job opportunities in health and community services. Sydney's economy is strong, with many aged care providers. Adelaide, while smaller, has a lower cost of living and a close-knit student community. Both cities have excellent public transport and cultural attractions. Consider your budget, climate preference, and employment networks when choosing a study location.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Individual Support at Mercury Colleges: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers offering this course. Use HeadStart Academy to compare providers and locations. 2. Apply directly to Mercury Colleges. Prepare your academic documents, English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Start your journey into Australia's community services sector. Check the latest fee and intake details from Mercury Colleges directly.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited. 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.