Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CRICOS course code 118421K) is a Diploma delivered by PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (VET code CPC50220) equips you with the skills to manage building projects, supervise teams, and ensure compliance with Australian construction standards. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the rigorous requirements set by the Australian Government for international student enrolment. At HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au), we help you navigate over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. This page draws directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 to give you accurate, up-to-date course details. Whether you're in Melbourne or planning to move interstate, understanding the cost, location, and entry requirements is crucial. Read on for a full breakdown of this Diploma in Building and Construction, including fees, visa pathways, and how to apply.
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This Diploma falls under the field of education '04 - Architecture and Building', specifically in building and related trades. At AQF Level 5, this diploma provides high-level skills and knowledge for professional or paraprofessional work. Graduates typically develop competencies in project management, cost estimation, contract administration, site safety, and quality control. The course is designed to meet the Australian building industry standards, preparing you for roles such as building supervisor, construction manager, or estimator. While specific subjects are set by the provider, the general areas of study include reading and interpreting plans, managing building consent processes, supervising on-site construction, and understanding sustainability practices. This qualification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework, ensuring your skills are valued across the country. Note that this is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies attached.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 1 year, equating to 52 weeks of study. Instruction is delivered in English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual awards). This full-time diploma is structured to provide intensive, hands-on learning throughout the year. Studying in Victoria, you'll have access to two campuses: Pakenham and St Kilda. The duration makes it a relatively fast pathway to entering the building industry compared to a degree. However, international students should plan for the full calendar year, including scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses must adhere to the ESOS Act, which protects your rights as a student, including course quality and refund policies. For detailed timetables and study mode options (e.g., face-to-face, online), refer to PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD directly.
The indicative tuition fee for this Diploma is A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,500, bringing the estimated total to A$19,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The non-tuition fees may cover materials, administration, and campus services. Important: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. For a full breakdown, always check the provider's website at http://www.wri.edu.au. Living costs in Victoria vary: in Melbourne, you might budget A$1,200–A$1,800 per month for rent, groceries, and transport, while regional areas like Pakenham are generally cheaper. HeadStart Academy advises confirming current fees with the institution before applying. All listed fees are indicative only, as set by the institution. ESOS protections ensure that if course fees change after enrolment, you are entitled to a refund or alternative arrangement.
While specific entry requirements are set by PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD, a typical English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall is expected for diploma-level courses. You should also have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Many providers also accept alternative English tests like PTE or TOEFL. For international students, prior qualifications in a related field may be beneficial but not always required. Foundation or pathway programs are available through other CRICOS providers if you need to meet academic or English prerequisites. We recommend contacting the provider directly or consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee visa approval; the Department of Home Affairs assesses each application holistically under the GTE criterion.
This course does not include a mandatory work component as per the CRICOS registration. That means there is no built-in internship, placement, or work experience requirement. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This can be an opportunity to gain industry exposure alongside your studies. Even without a formal work placement, many students find part-time roles in construction or related fields to supplement their learning. Always ensure your employment does not interfere with your study commitments. For visa conditions related to work, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
The course is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: Pakenham Campus (Unit 2, 66-68 Main St, PAKENHAM VIC 3810) and St Kilda Campus (Unit 3, 201 Fitzroy St, ST KILDA VIC 3182). Pakenham is a growing outer suburb of Melbourne, about 45 km southeast of the CBD, offering a more affordable cost of living and good public transport via the Pakenham train line. St Kilda is a vibrant inner-city suburb famous for its beach and cultural diversity, with easy tram and bus access to Melbourne's central business district. Victoria has one of Australia's largest international student populations, with over 200,000 students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. The state offers excellent public transport, student support services, and a multicultural environment. Choosing between Pakenham and St Kilda depends on your lifestyle: outer suburban calm versus inner-city buzz. Both campuses are fully registered to deliver this CRICOS course.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a short period after. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, showing you intend to study and comply with visa conditions. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire visa period. As mentioned, student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You can include family members (dependants) who can also work with limitations. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). Important: This page is for guidance only; HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent. For personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au. All CRICOS-registered providers, including PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD, must comply with ESOS Act protections, ensuring your educational investment is safeguarded.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) at PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS website to verify the provider's registration (CRICOS 03941H) and course status (118421K). Filter by course level, field, and city to find your ideal program.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD via their website (http://www.wri.edu.au) to submit your application. Check entry requirements, provide English test scores, and meet application deadlines. The provider will issue a Letter of Offer if successful.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you accept the offer and pay the required fees, the provider issues a CoE. Then apply online to the Department of Home Affairs for your student visa. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, GTE statement, and English proficiency. Process times vary, so apply early.
For step-by-step visa guidance, refer to our Student Visa Subclass 500 page.
Victoria is a leading destination for international students, with world-class training facilities and a booming construction sector. The state's population is projected to grow significantly, driving demand for skilled building professionals. Studying in Victoria means access to practical training environments, from new housing developments to infrastructure projects. However, consider the cost of living: Melbourne is more expensive than regional areas, with average weekly rent around A$500 for a one-bedroom apartment vs. A$350 in Pakenham. Public transport is reliable, with concession fares for students. The construction industry in Victoria is highly regulated, so this diploma will help you comply with local codes and regulations. Also think about climate: Victoria has cool winters and mild summers, which can affect outdoor construction schedules. Finally, check if this qualification is recognised by relevant industry bodies—many employers value CRICOS-registered qualifications due to their quality assurance under the ESOS Act.
Ready to apply? Visit PAKENHAM INSTITUTE PTY LTD's website at http://www.wri.edu.au for the latest entry requirements and application forms.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is a CRICOS-registered programme at PAKENHAM INSTITUTE 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.