Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 116374F) is a Certificate III delivered by Times Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification, focusing on Care for the Aged (field 090507), prepares you for a rewarding career in aged care, disability support, and home care. With a mandatory work component of approximately 122 hours, you'll gain practical experience in real care settings. Offered at campuses in Sydney and Melbourne, this course is open to international students who meet the English language requirement (IELTS 5.0–5.5). Indicative tuition is A$15,000, with total fees around A$16,000. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate CRICOS-registered courses and providers so you can make informed study decisions.
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This course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. Graduates of Certificate III in Individual Support are equipped to provide person-centered support to elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and those in need of community care. While we do not publish specific syllabus content, typical learning areas include: supporting independence and well-being, understanding legal and ethical frameworks in aged care, communicating effectively with clients and their families, and providing personal care. The course also emphasises workplace health and safety, infection control, and cultural sensitivity. These skills align with national standards in the Australian aged care sector, making graduates job-ready for roles in residential aged care facilities, community care organisations, and disability support services.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award). The course is delivered face-to-face at the provider's campuses. Students should anticipate both classroom learning and the supervised work placement component. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider must ensure the course duration is sufficient for international students to meet visa requirements while achieving the learning outcomes.
Tuition for Certificate III in Individual Support at Times Academy Pty Ltd is A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$16,000. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge. Always confirm current fees directly with Times Academy before applying. We recommend budgeting at least A$25,000–A$35,000 per year for living costs depending on your city (Sydney is more expensive than Melbourne).
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. No specific academic background in health is required, but you must be at least 18 years old. Some providers may require a National Police Check or working with vulnerable people clearance prior to placement. Foundation studies or pathway options are not offered for this course at Times Academy; if you need to meet academic or English requirements, contact the provider for alternative options. These are general guidelines—always check the official entry requirements on the Times Academy website.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component. The CRICOS register notes 36 weeks of placement at 3.4 hours per week, totalling approximately 122 hours. This typically takes the form of a supervised industry placement in an aged care or disability support setting. The work component allows you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world care situations, build professional networks, and satisfy the Australian Community Workers Association accreditation standards. As an international student, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but the placement hours are distinct from paid work.
Times Academy Pty Ltd delivers this course at two campuses: Level 4, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney (NSW) and Times Academy (Sussex Street) in Melbourne (VIC). Sydney, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population of 250,000+, offers vibrant city life with excellent public transport. Melbourne, with over 180 registered providers and a similar student community, is known for its affordable living costs compared to Sydney. Both campuses are centrally located, providing easy access to transport, accommodation, and part-time work opportunities. Choosing between Sydney and Melbourne may depend on your preference for climate, cost of living, and lifestyle. Typical weekly rent in Sydney is around A$350–$500 (shared) and in Melbourne A$250–$400.
To study this course on a CRICOS registration, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (1 year) plus a short period afterwards. You must maintain the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which assesses your genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. You also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. As a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members may accompany you on a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) if under 18, or may apply for dependent visas. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – always consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised visa advice.
Ready to enrol in Certificate III in Individual Support at Times Academy Pty Ltd? Follow these three simple steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify that Times Academy (03457J) is registered to offer this course to international students. 2. Apply directly to Times Academy – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS or equivalent), and a copy of your passport. Check the application deadlines and submit your application through the provider's online portal or email. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. You can also apply for OSHC at this stage.
Both cities are excellent study destinations, but they have distinct profiles. Sydney's job market in aged care is strong, with many residential aged care facilities. The cost of living is higher – a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre may cost A$2,500 per month, while shared housing is around A$1,400–$2,000. Melbourne is slightly more affordable, with similar rents A$200–$300 less per week. Melbourne also has a robust public transport system (trams, trains, buses) and a multicultural environment. According to the CRICOS register, New South Wales has over 450 registered providers offering more than 7,000 courses, while Victoria has over 400 providers with similar course numbers. Your choice may also be influenced by climate: Sydney enjoys warmer winters, while Melbourne is known for its four-seasons-in-one-day weather.
Ready to begin your career in individual support? Apply now to Times Academy via their website or consult HeadStart Academy for more information on CRICOS-registered courses.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Times Academy 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.