Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118016A) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd over 1 year. At AQF Level 5, this course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101) and is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to work in early childhood education settings. The program is delivered in Melbourne, Victoria, and includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks (approximately 280 hours) to provide practical industry experience. The indicative total cost is A$27,500, comprising tuition fees of A$25,000 and non-tuition fees of A$2,500. All fees are set by the provider and are subject to change. As a CRICOS-registered course (118016A) at a CRICOS-registered provider (04337J), international students can trust that this course meets Australian Government standards. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Note that additional costs such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application fees are not included in the estimated total.
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This vocational course (CHC50121) provides a comprehensive understanding of early childhood education principles. Students learn to support children's learning and development through play-based and intentional teaching strategies. The program covers child health and safety, educational program planning, inclusive practices, and professional relationships with families and communities. Assessment methods typically include written assignments, observations, and practical demonstrations. The curriculum aligns with the National Quality Framework and the Early Years Learning Framework. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for roles such as early childhood educator, group leader, or program coordinator. Additionally, this diploma can serve as a stepping stone towards a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, enhancing career prospects in Australia and internationally.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation program. Students are expected to attend classes and complete supervised work-based training. The provider structures the program to accommodate the work component alongside theoretical learning. International students should ensure they can commit to the full duration and maintain satisfactory course progress as required by their student visa conditions. The study load typically equates to around 20-25 hours per week of contact time, plus independent study. For students balancing work and study, the visa allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term, providing flexibility.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$25,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,500, bringing the estimated total to A$27,500. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. They are set by Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd and subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at around A$30,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. The visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is currently A$1,600. Always confirm the latest fees directly with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees and encourages students to compare course costs across multiple CRICOS-registered providers.
General entry requirements for international students applying for this Diploma include a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent in other recognized English language tests such as TOEFL or PTE). Some providers may have higher requirements for direct entry, so it is important to check with Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd. Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling, as this is a Diploma-level qualification. For students who do not meet the academic or English requirements, pathway options such as foundation studies or English language courses may be available. The provider can advise on the most suitable pathway. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa application. Note that entry requirements are set by the institution and subject to change.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks, totaling approximately 280 hours of hands-on industry experience. This work-integrated learning places students in real early childhood education settings such as childcare centers or preschools, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. The placement is an integral part of the qualification and helps students develop practical skills in child supervision, activity planning, and communication with families. Students are typically expected to arrange their own placement in consultation with the provider, who ensures the host organization meets regulatory standards. The work component also contributes to the required hours for professional recognition. International students should note that while work placements are unpaid, they count towards the visa work condition (48 hours per fortnight) only if paid; unpaid placements do not affect work limits. However, students should check visa conditions carefully.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Level 8, 310 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. Studying in Melbourne offers access to excellent public transport, with trams and trains connecting the campus to the city and suburbs. The indicative weekly rent for a student in Melbourne is between A$250 and A$450 for shared accommodation, with groceries around A$80-$120 per week and public transport capped at A$10 per day. The city is known for its vibrant arts, culture, and food scene, making it an attractive destination for students. Victoria has a strong early childhood education sector, providing ample opportunities for work placements and future employment. The provider is located in the central business district, close to libraries, cafes, and other student services.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, which 118016A is. Key visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. During term, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight; during scheduled breaks, unlimited work is permitted. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides strong consumer protections, including tuition fee protection in case of provider default. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for visa-specific advice. HeadStart Academy cannot guarantee visa outcomes.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to find CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses in Melbourne. Compare course details, fees, and locations to find the right fit.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd to submit your application. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and satisfy the provider's entry requirements. Deadlines may vary, so apply early.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). With the CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment.
Ready to start your journey? Visit the CRICOS register or contact Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd for current fees and application details.
View the full Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Institute of Community and Health Management 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.