Are you an international student looking to build a career in aged care in Australia? Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 115582F) is a nationally recognised qualification delivered by Downtown Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03689D), a private provider located in Sydney, New South Wales. This 1-year program (52 weeks) prepares graduates to provide person-centred support to older individuals in residential and community settings. The course includes a mandatory work component of 6 weeks (120 hours), giving you real-world experience. Indicative tuition is A$15,000, plus A$500 in non-tuition fees, totalling A$15,500. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Downtown Australia meets Australian Government standards for international education. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) is your free resource hub, offering verified data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and student visa guidance. Whether you're exploring study options or ready to apply, this page gives you everything you need to make an informed decision.
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This qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) — Care for the Aged (090507). At the Certificate IV level (AQF Level 4), students develop specialised knowledge and skills to support older people with complex needs. The curriculum typically covers topics such as coordinating services, implementing individualised care plans, managing legal and ethical compliance, and promoting independence. Graduates are prepared for roles like aged care team leader, support worker, or case manager in residential aged care facilities, home care, or community organisations. The course integrates theoretical learning with practical placement, reflecting Australia's strong regulatory framework for aged care. All study is conducted in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component.
The program runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is full-time in English. This is a single qualification — not part of a package with another award. No foundation studies component is offered for this course. Classes are delivered at the KII Kent Street campus in Sydney's central business district, providing access to city amenities and public transport. The structured 52-week timeline includes both classroom learning and a supervised work placement. Students should be prepared for a full-time study commitment of approximately 20–25 hours per week, plus independent study. The course may also involve evening or weekend sessions depending on provider scheduling. Always confirm the exact timetable with Downtown Australia Pty Ltd before enrolling.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Ageing Support is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$15,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Downtown Australia Pty Ltd. Please note: fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. International students in Australia typically budget A$21,000–A$28,000 per year for living costs (including rent, food, and transport), plus approximately A$600–A$1,000 for OSHC. Sydney is Australia's most expensive city for rent — expect A$350–A$600 per week for a one-bedroom apartment or shared accommodation. Always verify current fees directly with Downtown Australia Pty Ltd, as institutions may adjust pricing.
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for this level include completion of Year 12 or equivalent; some providers may also accept relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available through Downtown Australia — contact them directly for details. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest requirements. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually. For specific advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Yes, this course includes a compulsory work component of 6 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 120 total hours). This is a supervised industry placement, which may be in a residential aged care facility, home care service, or community care setting. Work-integrated learning allows you to apply classroom theory to real client situations, develop professional communication skills, and understand Australian aged care standards. Placements are typically arranged by Downtown Australia Pty Ltd in collaboration with local partner organisations. Students are expected to comply with workplace policies, including vaccination requirements and background checks. This hands-on experience not only enhances your learning but also strengthens your employability in Australia's growing aged care sector. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and aged care reforms have increased demand for qualified workers, making this practical component particularly valuable.
This course is delivered at KII Kent Street — SYDNEY, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 5 million people and more than 200,000 international students. It boasts excellent public transport (trains, buses, ferries) connecting all suburbs. Sydney's Central Business District (CBD) where Kent Street is located has a high concentration of educational institutions, shops, and services. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average — weekly rent for a shared room ranges from A$250 to A$400, and a monthly transport pass costs about A$150. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, world-class beaches, and a vibrant student community. NSW alone has over 400 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, so you'll be studying in a well-established education hub.
International students studying this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a short period after. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights: you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All student visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, proving their intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is required — typically enough to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs processes visa applications; HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not offer migration advice. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised support.
Ready to enrol in Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Downtown Australia Pty Ltd? Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses by level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to Downtown Australia — check entry requirements, prepare your English test results (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget to arrange OSHC and budget for living expenses. HeadStart Academy is here to help you navigate each step — all free and independent.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses in Sydney or contact Downtown Australia Pty Ltd directly for application details.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Downtown Australia 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.