Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 116110H) is a 1-year Certificate III level qualification delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03427D). This course is designed to equip international students with the foundational skills needed to provide personal care and support to elderly individuals and those with disabilities. As part of Australia's VET system, this course aligns with the national competency standard CHC33021 and focuses on human welfare studies, specifically care for the aged. With a mandatory work component of 120 hours, students gain practical experience in real healthcare settings, enhancing their employability. Whether you plan to work in aged care facilities or community support services in Australia or abroad, this course offers a clear pathway into the growing aged care sector. All course data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for your study planning.
This Certificate III in Individual Support falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090507 - Care for the Aged). Students develop competencies in providing person-centered support, assisting with daily living activities, maintaining health and safety, and working effectively in aged care or disability settings. The curriculum covers topics such as communication strategies, legal and ethical responsibilities, infection control, and supporting independence. While specific unit details may vary, the course prepares graduates to work under supervision in residential aged care, home care, and community services. Graduates may also articulate to Certificate IV in Ageing Support or related diplomas, expanding career opportunities in Australia's growing aged care sector.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—no embedded dual awards or foundation studies. Students attend classes at Sydney Metro College’s campuses, with a mix of classroom learning and supervised work placement. The full-time study load typically meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). It is important to check with the provider for exact timetables and any part-time study options. HeadStart Academy always recommends reviewing your study schedule to ensure compliance with visa conditions.
Fees for Certificate III in Individual Support at Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition: A$18,000. Non-tuition fees: A$500 (e.g., enrolment, materials). Estimated total: A$18,500. These amounts do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For reference, living costs in Melbourne or Sydney are roughly A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for accommodation, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Sydney Metro College at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not set or guarantee fees.
General entry requirements for this level typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent in your home country, plus an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). No prior qualifications in health or aged care are mandatory, but any relevant experience may be considered. Sydney Metro College may have additional requirements such as a police check or health screening due to the nature of the work placement. Foundation or pathway programs are available if you do not meet the direct entry criteria—contact the provider for options. Remember, each institution sets its own entry requirements; verify on the provider's website or via CRICOS.
Yes, this course includes a compulsory work component of 3 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 120 total hours). Work-integrated learning (WIL) involves industry placement in aged care facilities, community centres, or disability support services. This practical experience allows you to apply classroom skills in real-world settings, supervised by qualified professionals. It is an integral part of the CHC33021 training package and is designed to meet industry competency standards. Students are responsible for arranging their own transport and may need to comply with workplace policies such as vaccination requirements. The placement is unpaid and counts towards your course assessment.
This course is delivered at two Sydney Metro College campuses: - SMC Melbourne Campus (VIC) - Sydney Metro College (Surry Hills) – Lvl 2, 16-22 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills NSW Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest cities, each hosting over 1,500 international students across hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. Melbourne offers a vibrant cultural scene with trams and affordable living compared to Sydney, while Sydney boasts stunning harbours and a faster pace. Both cities have excellent public transport connecting campuses to student accommodation and social hubs. When choosing a location, consider living costs (e.g., weekly rent of A$250–A$450), climate, and job opportunities in aged care. HeadStart Academy provides detailed state guides to help you decide.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and course progress requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Individual Support at Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Society and Culture), and location. Verify that Sydney Metro College (CRICOS 03427D) meets your preferences. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Complete the online application form at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au. Prepare supporting documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0–5.5), passport copy, and evidence of funds. Check application deadlines—some intakes are in February, July, or October. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, Sydney Metro College will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online, include OSHC, and attend a biometrics appointment if required. Never share your CoE before visa approval.
Both Melbourne (VIC) and Sydney (NSW) are popular destinations for international students, each with distinct advantages. Melbourne is known for its affordable living costs, strong student culture, and extensive tram network. Sydney offers a higher cost of living but unparalleled job opportunities in aged care due to its population density. When choosing between the two campuses, consider near-campus housing (Surry Hills is close to Sydney CBD; Melbourne campus is central), climate (Sydney warmer, Melbourne cooler), and proximity to support networks. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses—you can find similar courses in other states. HeadStart Academy’s free resources help you compare providers and locations without any referral fees.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Sydney Metro College's website at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au or use HeadStart Academy's course search to compare other Certificate III options across Australia.
Certificate III in Individual 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.