Certificate II in Animal Care (CRICOS course code 117282B) is a Certificate II delivered by Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This entry-level VET qualification is designed for individuals seeking foundational skills in animal care, including handling, feeding, and basic health monitoring of companion animals. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04060M), it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free, independent resource sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this course is one of many options. Whether you're aiming to work in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or pet care services, this certificate offers a practical pathway. Read on for tuition, duration, entry requirements, and delivery locations.
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Certificate II in Animal Care (CRICOS course code 117282B) is a Certificate II delivered by Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd over 26 weeks (~6 months). This qualification sits at AQF Level 2, under the field of education 06 - Health (specifically 061199 - Veterinary Studies, n.e.c.). It provides an introduction to animal care practices, including animal handling, welfare, and basic health procedures. Graduates may find entry-level roles in pet shops, boarding kennels, or animal shelters. International students studying this course must enrol with a CRICOS-registered provider like Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04060M). The course is delivered at two campuses: Greenwood Academy - Melbourne CBC Campus in Docklands, VIC, and Greenwood Academy Sydney CBD Campus in Sydney, NSW. Both locations offer access to Australia's vibrant student communities. As with all CRICOS courses, ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded and you have access to student support services.
This Certificate II covers fundamental concepts in animal care aligned with the national VET competency standards (ACM20121). Students typically learn about safe animal handling, nutrition, grooming, hygiene, and basic first aid for animals. The curriculum also introduces workplace health and safety practices relevant to animal care environments. While specific syllabi vary by provider, the course aims to develop skills that are immediately applicable in animal-related workplaces. It is a stepping stone for further study in Certificate III in Animal Care or related fields. The field of veterinary studies (n.e.c.) encompasses a broad range of animal health topics, making this course versatile for those exploring careers with animals.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not classified as foundation studies. The course is delivered full-time, typically requiring around 20 contact hours per week plus self-study. International students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to comply with Student visa conditions. The 26-week timeframe allows students to complete the required competencies and gain practical skills in an immersive learning environment.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$14,000, with non-tuition fees of A$800, totaling approximately A$14,800. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Melbourne or Sydney range from A$300–A$600 per week for rent, plus A$150–200 for groceries and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees – we are a free resource.
English language requirements vary by provider – typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For Certificate II, a minimum IELTS 5.5 or equivalent is common. Prior qualifications: students should have completed Year 10 or equivalent. No specific foundation or pathway programs are advertised for this course; however, if you need to meet entry criteria, Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd may offer bridging options. Contact the provider for exact requirements. As a CRICOS-registered institution, Enlighten Talent must adhere to standard entry procedures for international students.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, practical training may be integrated into classroom or simulated environments. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The absence of a mandatory work placement means you can focus on your studies without additional employment obligations.
This course is delivered at two Greenwood Academy campuses: Greenwood Academy - Melbourne CBC Campus in Docklands, VIC, and Greenwood Academy Sydney CBD Campus in Sydney, NSW. Docklands is a waterfront precinct in central Melbourne with excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses). Sydney CBD is a bustling hub with trains, buses, and ferries. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while Sydney has over 300, offering diverse student communities. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly lower than Sydney; typical weekly rent for a room is around A$300–$450 in Melbourne and A$400–$600 in Sydney. Both cities offer vibrant cultural scenes and multiple study options.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd, evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS), sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses (at least A$24,505 per year as of 2025-26), and OSHC for the duration of your stay. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and return home. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for visa advice. All CRICOS students are protected under ESOS Act, including tuition fee refund provisions.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate II in Animal Care at Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – filter by course level (Certificate II), field (Veterinary Studies), and city (Melbourne or Sydney) on HeadStart Academy. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements, arrange your English test (IELTS or equivalent), and submit your application before deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – use the CoE to lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Don't forget OSHC and financial evidence.
Victoria is home to over 1,200 education providers and a large international student population. Melbourne, where the Docklands campus is located, is known for its arts, food, and multicultural environment. The state offers a range of animal care facilities and employment opportunities. However, Sydney also has a strong job market and lifestyle. Consider your preferences for climate, cost, and networking when choosing between the two locations. Both states have excellent public transport, making it easy to commute to campus.
Explore more VET courses in animal care or contact Enlighten Talent Pty Ltd for application details.
Certificate II in Animal Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Enlighten Talent 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.