Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 115317A) is a Diploma delivered by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning international students can study it on a Student visa (Subclass 500). The indicative tuition fee is A$25,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,500, giving an estimated total of A$26,500. The course includes a work component of 28 weeks at 10 hours per week (280 total hours), providing hands-on experience in early childhood settings. Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04123A) is a private provider delivering this course at Level 11, 474 Flinders Street Melbourne, Victoria. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. This page provides an overview of the course, entry requirements, fees, visa information, and how to apply. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
This Diploma is classified under the field of education 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood (AQF Level 5). The course prepares graduates to design and implement educational programs for children from birth to five years, working in diverse early childhood settings such as long day care, preschool, and family day care. Students develop skills in curriculum planning, child development, health and safety, family engagement, and inclusive practices. The program typically covers theoretical foundations and practical applications, aligned with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific unit details are set by Austin Institute of Trades, graduates of this level are qualified to work as early childhood educators in Australia. The course is delivered entirely in English, and students are expected to engage with both classroom learning and work-integrated learning.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care has a duration of 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is offered as a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English. Students are expected to study full-time, which is a standard requirement for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). The CRICOS duration is fixed and includes scheduled breaks. Austin Institute of Trades does not offer part-time study for international students on a student visa. The course is delivered at the provider’s Melbourne campus, with a combination of face-to-face classes and work placement.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$25,000, set by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd. Non-tuition fees, such as enrolment, materials, and assessment processing, amount to A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$26,500. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Other costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current and accurate fee information, always refer to the provider's website or contact Austin Institute of Trades directly. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee amounts.
Entry into this Diploma typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. English language proficiency is expected at an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent test) as a general guide. The provider may also consider prior work experience or relevant vocational qualifications. There are no foundation or pathway options listed specifically for this course; students who do not meet entry requirements should contact Austin Institute of Trades to discuss alternative entry pathways. All entry requirements are set by the institution and should be confirmed directly. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa application.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 28 weeks, requiring 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes the form of an industry placement in a regulated early childhood education and care service. Students gain practical experience working with children under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world environments. Placements are typically arranged by the provider and comply with Australian regulations. This component is essential for meeting the professional requirements of the qualification and for graduation. International students on a Student visa can undertake this placement as part of their course, and it counts towards their overall study load.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Level 11, 474 Flinders Street Melbourne, VIC 3000. This address is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, close to Flinders Street Station and public transport. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The city offers a vibrant multicultural environment, with extensive amenities including libraries, cafes, and study spaces. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$500–A$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. The campus location provides easy access to schools, childcare centres, and other educational facilities for placement opportunities.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To maintain visa conditions, students must be enrolled full-time, attend at least 80% of scheduled contact hours, and make satisfactory course progress. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Before applying, students must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intentions, hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to find providers offering this Diploma. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (Melbourne). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd to submit your application, meet entry requirements including English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. Provide all required documents such as academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Upon acceptance, the provider issues a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Lodge your visa application online through ImmiAccount, and await approval before travelling to Australia.
Victoria is a leading destination for international students, with over 300 CRICOS-registered providers across Melbourne and regional areas. For early childhood education, Victoria offers strong industry connections and pathways to employment. Melbourne has a high demand for qualified early childhood educators due to population growth and government initiatives. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly expenses of around A$600. Public transport in Melbourne is extensive, with trams, trains, and buses; the Flinders Street campus is a central hub. When choosing this field, consider the mandatory work placement hours and the need to be physically present in Melbourne for the duration of the course. Additionally, the ESOS Act ensures your tuition fees are protected and you have access to tuition assurance if the provider closes.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Austin Institute of Trades' website to apply or contact their admissions office.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Austin Institute of Trades 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.