Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS 115318M) at Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd

Course Overview

Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 115318M) is a 1-year Certificate IV (AQF Level 4) programme delivered by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04123A). Field of education: 090507 - Care for the Aged. The course is taught entirely in English and includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (120 hours). This qualification is ideal for those seeking to advance their career in aged care, with job roles such as aged care activity worker, care supervisor, or community program coordinator. Dual qualification: No. Foundation studies: No. VET national code: CHC43015.

What You'll Study

In the field of Society and Culture (Human Welfare Studies and Services), students learn to develop, facilitate, and evaluate individualised support plans, manage legal and ethical compliance, and provide holistic care to older people. Graduates gain skills in person-centred practice, complex care coordination, and team supervision. While specific syllabus details are determined by Austin Institute of Trades, typical Certificate IV units cover topics such as supporting independence and wellbeing, working with diverse groups, and implementing falls prevention strategies. This level prepares students for frontline leadership roles in residential and community aged care settings.

Duration and Study Mode

Registered duration: 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction: English. Mode of study: full-time, classroom-based at the Melbourne campus. Single qualification (not part of a package). Students are expected to commit to approximately 20–25 hours of scheduled learning per week, plus self-study. Breaks typically align with the academic calendar. No foundation studies component is bundled with this course.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fee: A$18,000 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees: A$1,500 (including enrolment, materials, and student services). Estimated total: A$19,500. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are NOT included. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year including rent (A$200–A$400/week), groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd before applying.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

English proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: Completion of Australian Year 11 or equivalent. For Certificate IV, some vocational experience or a lower-level qualification (e.g., Certificate III) is often preferred. There is no foundation or pathway option embedded; applicants who do not meet the academic entry standard should contact the provider for alternative pathways. This is general guidance only—exact requirements are set by Austin Institute of Trades. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa.

Work Component

Yes – a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 12 hours per week (approximately 120 hours total). This involves supervised industry placement in an aged care setting (residential or community). Work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop hands-on skills, and meet the assessment requirements for the CHC43015 qualification. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require a police check or vaccination documentation. This component is not paid; it forms part of the course curriculum.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at Level 11, 474 Flinders Street Melbourne, VIC 3000. This campus is in the Melbourne CBD, close to public transport (Flinders Street Station, trams, buses). Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. The city offers excellent study and lifestyle opportunities, with a vibrant cultural scene and strong employment prospects in aged care. Typical weekly living costs in Melbourne: rent A$250–A$450, groceries A$60–A$100, transport A$35–A$50.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is assessed by the Department of Home Affairs. Financial capacity evidence must show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student), and OSHC. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund rights.

Is Melbourne the Right City for Your Aged Care Studies?

Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a high demand for skilled aged care workers. The city has a large international student population (over 200,000) and excellent public transport. Studying here gives you access to diverse clinical placements and networking opportunities. However, living costs are higher than some regional areas. Consider your budget and career goals—Melbourne offers strong job prospects in aged care, but regional placements may offer lower living expenses. Always weigh up the pros and cons before applying.

Ready to enrol? Visit the Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd website for the latest fees and intake dates.

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