Graduate Certificate in Counselling (CRICOS course code 116566J) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students seeking foundational counselling skills within human welfare studies. The course is offered at four Ikon campuses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Indicative tuition is A$15,380 plus non-tuition fees of A$795, totaling A$16,175. English language requirements vary, typically IELTS 5.5–7.0. This page provides detailed information on entry requirements, student visa eligibility, and application steps. HeadStart Academy offers trusted, free resources based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses.
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The Graduate Certificate in Counselling falls under the field of Society and Culture (broad field 09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) and Counselling (090513). At AQF Level 8, this graduate certificate typically covers theoretical foundations of counselling, ethical practice, communication skills, and client assessment. Students gain practical techniques for supporting individuals across diverse contexts. While specific curricula vary by provider, graduates often develop competencies in active listening, empathy, and intervention strategies. This qualification can serve as a pathway to further study in counselling or related fields, or enhance professional skills for roles in community services, health, and education. HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing the provider's detailed syllabus for exact learning outcomes.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not involve foundation studies. The course is not VET-registered (N/A). Study mode is typically full-time, though delivery methods (on-campus, online, blended) vary by campus. Students should confirm timetables directly with Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd. The duration meets student visa requirements for full-time study under Subclass 500.
Course fees are set by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd and are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fees: A$15,380. Non-tuition fees: A$795. Estimated total: A$16,175. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Living costs vary by city – for example, weekly rent in Sydney can range from A$300–$500, while Adelaide may be A$250–$400. Always confirm current fees with the provider at www.ikon.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we provide this data as a free resource.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this Graduate Certificate, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the institution's policy. Prior qualifications expected: applicants usually need a bachelor's degree in any discipline or equivalent work experience. Some providers may offer pathway or foundation options for students who do not meet direct entry criteria – refer to Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd for specific details. Always check the latest entry requirements on the provider's website. HeadStart Academy recommends meeting all academic and English prerequisites before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work or internship placement. However, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain Australian work experience while studying. For specific work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd delivers this course through Ikon campuses in four Australian cities: Ikon Adelaide Campus (Adelaide, SA), Ikon Brisbane Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Ikon Melbourne Campus (Melbourne, VIC), and Ikon Sydney Campus (Haymarket, NSW). Each city offers a unique study environment. Adelaide is known for its affordable living costs (approx. A$250–$350/week rent) and strong student community. Brisbane has a subtropical climate and lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Melbourne offers a vibrant cultural scene with a large international student population. Sydney is Australia's largest city with diverse amenities but higher living costs (approx. A$300–$500/week rent). All campuses are accessible via public transport. HeadStart Academy helps you compare institutions across these locations.
International students enrolling in this Graduate Certificate require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance requirements, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The indicative living cost is A$21,041 per year (as per Department of Home Affairs). Visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but does not offer migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Certificate in Counselling at Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Counselling), and city. Verify CRICOS code 116566J and provider 03581E. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications) and submit your application through Ikon's website (www.ikon.edu.au). Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). After acceptance, you'll receive a CoE, which is required for your visa application. Submit your visa application online with required documents (passport, CoE, OSHC, financial evidence).
Before enrolling, consider your career goals and preferred location. Counselling skills are valuable in health, community services, and education. This graduate certificate provides a foundation, but further study (e.g., Master of Counselling) may be needed for professional accreditation. Living costs differ across campuses: Adelaide is more affordable, Sydney is expensive. Check if the campus offers flexible study modes. Also, ensure the provider's accreditation aligns with your intended pathway. HeadStart Academy's free resource can help you compare multiple courses and institutions across Australia.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy.
Graduate Certificate in Counselling is a CRICOS-registered programme at Proteus Technologies 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.