If you are looking to launch a rewarding career in aged care, the Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 116614F) is a nationally recognised qualification delivered by Opulence College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03878K). This one-year course equips you with the skills to provide person-centred support to older people, working in residential aged care, community care, or home care settings. As an international student, you will study under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 4) and gain practical experience through a mandatory work placement. Opulence College delivers this program across three Australian campuses: Canberra, Melbourne, and Sydney. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is intended to help you make an informed study decision.
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Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CRICOS course code 116614F) is a Certificate IV delivered by Opulence College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is classified under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services (Care for the Aged). The course is designed for students who want to become qualified aged care workers or advance from a Certificate III. It covers areas such as supporting independence, providing personal care, managing legal and ethical compliance, and leading teams. The VET national code is CHC43015. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act.
The Certificate IV in Ageing Support prepares graduates to work in aged care settings with a focus on individualised support, health and safety, and professional practice. Typical learning outcomes include developing care plans, assisting with daily living activities, understanding dementia and mental health issues, and implementing workplace policies. Students also learn to coordinate services and support the rights of older people. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, the qualification is competency-based and includes both theoretical and practical components. Graduates may pursue roles such as Aged Care Coordinator, Care Team Leader, or Residential Care Worker.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification — not a dual or foundation studies program. Students are expected to enrol full-time and attend classes at the campus location. Opulence College may offer flexible study modes such as face-to-face or blended delivery; confirm directly with the provider.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials, or resource fees) are approximately A$800, bringing the estimated total to A$13,800. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always check Opulence College's official website for the most current fee schedule. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the Student visa application charge. Living costs vary by city — for example, weekly rent in Canberra ranges from A$200 to A$450 for shared accommodation, while Melbourne and Sydney are similar. Budget for groceries (A$80–150/week) and transport (A$30–60/week).
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent) for entry into this level of study. Prior qualifications expected: completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Home and Community) may be recognised. There are no stated foundation study options on the CRICOS register for this course; contact Opulence College for any pathway or bridging programs. Meeting the minimum English requirement does not guarantee admission — the provider will assess each application holistically.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 6 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 120 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement — typically an industry placement or clinical placement in an aged care facility. It allows you to apply your skills in a real-world environment under supervision. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require a police check, working with vulnerable people check, and immunisations. This practical experience is essential for meeting competency requirements and gaining confidence as a care professional.
Opulence College delivers this course at three campuses: 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601 (Canberra, ACT); Level 8, 474 Flinders Street (Melbourne, VIC); and the Sydney Campus (Sydney, NSW). Canberra, the national capital, is home to over 40,000 international students and 100+ CRICOS-registered providers. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest student cities, each with hundreds of providers and vibrant multicultural communities. All campuses are well-connected by public transport. Studying in Canberra offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, while Melbourne and Sydney provide larger job markets and cultural diversity.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. This visa requires you to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (conditions apply). The ESOS Act provides consumer protection, including a tuition fee refund framework if the provider fails to deliver. For visa eligibility and application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Choosing where to study is important. Canberra has a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne, with more affordable rental and transport options. The city has a strong job market for aged care workers, with many residential facilities and government support services. If you prefer a quieter, campus-focused environment, Canberra is ideal. However, if you want more job opportunities and a bustling multicultural scene, Sydney or Melbourne campuses may suit you better. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to find providers offering aged care courses in your preferred city. Filter by course level (Certificate IV) and field (Society and Culture). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, English test score (IELTS 5.0-5.5), passport copy, and any required statements. Submit your application through Opulence College's admissions portal. Check application deadlines and any supplementary requirements. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC cover and sufficient funds for fees and living costs.
Ready to start your journey in aged care? Explore Certificate IV in Ageing Support at Opulence College today.
All Certificate IV courses in Australian Capital Territory →
Certificate IV in Ageing Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at Opulence 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.