Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 115337H) is a Certificate III delivered by Edinburgh Institute Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 3 course is designed for students seeking to work in aged care, disability support, or home and community care, falling under the field of Care for the Aged (090507). Delivered in Melbourne at Level 2, 608E St Kilda Road, it combines classroom learning with a 3-week work placement. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04194H), it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this qualification provides a pathway to further study or employment in Australia's growing aged care sector.
This course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Care for the Aged (090507). Graduates typically learn to provide person-centred support, assist with personal care, support community participation, and work effectively in aged care settings. While the specific syllabus is set by Edinburgh Institute, at this level students develop skills in communication, safety, and ethical practice. The VET national code is CHC33021. This qualification prepares students for roles such as personal care assistant, aged care worker, or disability support worker. The course covers practical and theoretical aspects of individual support, including understanding the needs of older people, promoting independence, and working within legal and ethical frameworks. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education for international students.
The course runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as per the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students are expected to study full-time, with a structured schedule including classroom sessions and a mandatory work placement. The CRICOS duration reflects the typical time to complete, though individual progress may vary. Edinburgh Institute may offer flexibility in study modes; confirm directly with the provider. The course is delivered in-person at the Melbourne campus, allowing for hands-on learning and interaction with instructors and peers.
Indicative fees set by Edinburgh Institute Pty Ltd, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026: tuition A$5,000, non-tuition fees A$1,500, estimated total A$6,500. These figures are indicative only and subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Melbourne's weekly living costs are approximately: rent A$250–400, groceries A$70–100, transport A$30–50 (with student concessions). Always confirm current fees directly with Edinburgh Institute. ESOS Act protections ensure fee transparency and refund policies. HeadStart Academy recommends using the provider's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
General guidance for international students: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) is typically required. Prior qualifications: completion of Year 11 or equivalent is expected. No foundation studies component is attached to this course. Specific academic and English language requirements should be confirmed with Edinburgh Institute before applying. Some providers may offer internal English language support. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application holistically. For visa purposes, students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity.
Yes, this course includes a compulsory work component: 3 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This is an industry placement in an aged care or community setting, allowing students to apply classroom learning in real workplaces under supervision. Work-integrated learning is a hallmark of this qualification, providing practical experience essential for employment. Students are responsible for arranging their own transport to placement sites, though Edinburgh Institute may assist with placement coordination. The work component is a CRICOS requirement and must be completed to receive the qualification.
The course is delivered at Level 2, 608E St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004. Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and Australia's second-largest city, home to over 250,000 international students. The campus is located on St Kilda Road, a major thoroughfare with excellent tram and bus connections to the CBD and suburbs. Melbourne offers a vibrant multicultural environment, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering similar courses, making it a hub for health and community services study. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$250–400 and a student travel pass offering discounted fares.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. As a CRICOS-registered course (115337H), it satisfies the study requirements for a visa. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. The visa application charge is separate. HeadStart Academy advises consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. ESOS Act protections apply to this course, ensuring student rights and provider accountability.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Certificate III in Individual Support at Edinburgh Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Society and Culture), and location (Melbourne). Confirm that Edinburgh Institute (CRICOS 04194H) is registered. 2. Apply directly to Edinburgh Institute: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 5.0–5.5), passport copy, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence and financial statements. Do not finalise travel until your visa is granted.
Melbourne offers strong employment prospects in aged care due to an aging population and growing demand for support workers. The city's public transport network makes commuting to placement sites manageable. However, cost of living is higher than regional areas, so budget accordingly. The mandatory 120-hour work placement requires reliable transport and flexibility. This course can lead to further study such as Certificate IV in Aged Care or Diploma of Community Services, which may open more senior roles. International students should also consider that aged care positions often require additional certifications like First Aid or CPR. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Melbourne has a competitive market; choose a provider that offers strong industry connections and placement support.
Ready to start your journey? Use HeadStart Academy to compare Certificate III courses across Melbourne, apply directly to Edinburgh Institute, and take the next step towards your student visa.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edinburgh Institute 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.