Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 116072J) is a Certificate IV delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course belongs to the field of 09 - Society and Culture, specifically in Human Welfare Studies and Services (Care for the Aged). Sydney Metro College (CRICOS 03427D) is a private provider with multiple campuses in Sydney and Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The program prepares graduates for roles in aged care facilities, community services, and support work. With a strong focus on person-centred care, students learn about ageing processes, palliative care, legal and ethical considerations, and communication strategies. The course includes a work component of 5 weeks (120 hours) to gain practical experience. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections and can access student visa pathways. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). If you're considering a career in aged care in Australia, this course offers a solid foundation.
This Certificate IV focuses on developing skills to support older people in residential or home care settings. Students learn about the ageing process, providing personal care, supporting independence, and managing complex needs. Topics may include palliative approaches, emergency situations, legal and ethical frameworks, and effective communication. The course aligns with the VET national code CHC43015 and is classified under AQF Level 4. Graduates are prepared for roles such as personal care assistant, residential support worker, or community care worker. In Australia, the aged care sector is growing rapidly, with increasing demand for qualified workers. This course equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge to provide high-quality care. It also covers understanding cultural diversity, working with people with dementia, and supporting families. Upon completion, students may articulate to further studies in nursing or community services. The field of education (090507 - Care for the Aged) ensures a curriculum that meets industry needs.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 52 weeks (1 year). Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation course). Students attend full-time classes, typically 20-25 hours per week, with additional study time. The course is delivered on-campus at the provider's campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment under their student visa conditions. The 52-week duration includes holidays. The course is structured to allow students to progress through units of competency. As an AQF Level 4 qualification, it builds on Certificate III or equivalent. Study modes may include lectures, tutorials, simulated labs, and self-directed learning. Flexible delivery options may be available; check with Sydney Metro College for specific schedules.
Tuition fees for Certificate IV in Ageing Support (116072J) at Sydney Metro College are A$18,000 per year. Additional non-tuition fees of A$1,000 bring the estimated total to A$19,000. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. OSHC typically costs around A$600–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city: in Sydney, indicative weekly expenses are around A$700 (rent, food, transport); in Melbourne, slightly lower. Always confirm fees with the provider via their website: www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au. Fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026; they are subject to change. The ESOS Act provides tuition protection for international students.
International students need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent). For Certificate IV, prior completion of Certificate III or equivalent is typically expected. Some providers accept relevant work experience. There are no foundation studies attached to this course. For specific entry requirements, including prerequisites and application deadlines, contact Sydney Metro College directly. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. Financial capacity evidence is required (at least A$21,041 per year plus course fees). HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks (120 hours total, at 24 hours per week). This is an industry placement where students apply their learning in real aged care settings. Placements are arranged by the provider and may include residential aged care facilities or community care organisations. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision. This component is integral to the qualification and helps graduates enter the workforce with practical skills. International students can participate as part of their course; work during placement does not count towards visa work hour limits. The work-integrated learning enhances employability and meets industry standards. Students may need to obtain police checks or vaccinations prior to placement.
Sydney Metro College delivers this course at three campuses: (1) Petersham Training Centre at 49A New Canterbury Rd, Petersham, NSW – a suburb in Sydney's inner west, accessible by train and bus; (2) Sydney Metro College (Surry Hills) at Lvl 2, 16-22 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills, NSW – near Central Station and the city centre; (3) SMC Melbourne Campus in Melbourne, VIC – located in the CBD with excellent public transport. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large student population. Melbourne also has a vibrant international student community. Living costs in both cities are relatively high, with Sydney being slightly more expensive. Each campus offers modern facilities and support services for international students.
International students need a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions: maintain enrolment, attend classes, and achieve satisfactory progress. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must hold OSHC for the entire stay and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Financial capacity evidence: at least A$21,041 per year (2024 rate) plus course fees and travel. ESOS Act provides tuition protection. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for latest requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Sydney Metro College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and filter by level, field, and location. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy) and meet entry requirements. 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, pay fees, obtain CoE, then lodge your visa application. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you navigate each step.
Ready to begin your journey? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and start your application process today.
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metro College 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.