Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118667K) is a Diploma delivered by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd over 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks). This CRICOS-registered course (Provider ID 04123A) trains students to become qualified early childhood educators in Australia. As a National VET qualification (CHC50125), it combines theoretical knowledge with practical work placement, preparing graduates to work in childcare centres, preschools, and early learning settings. The course is taught in English at the Melbourne campus, Level 11, 474 Flinders Street, providing easy access to public transport and student services. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information. All CRICOS-registered providers are legally required to meet ESOS Act standards, protecting international students' rights.
This Diploma belongs to the field of Teacher Education - Early Childhood (Field 070101), which focuses on developing skills for working with children from birth to school age. Students learn about child development, behaviour guidance, curriculum planning, and family engagement. The course covers both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, including how to design and implement play-based learning programs. Graduates typically gain the ability to create safe, inclusive environments that support children's social, emotional, and cognitive development. While specific units vary by provider, the qualification aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year 4 months (~69 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The course is taught in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies included). Students are expected to attend classes at the Melbourne campus and complete supervised work placement. The duration includes both classroom instruction and practical training hours. This structure allows international students to fully immerse themselves in the Australian education system and gain local industry experience.
Tuition fees for this course are set at A$25,000 (indicative) by Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd, with non-tuition fees of A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$26,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For accurate and current fees, always check the provider's official website. Melbourne's cost of living for a single student is approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month, including rent, groceries, and transport, as a general guide only.
International students generally need to demonstrate English proficiency, with an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for this Diploma level. Prior academic qualifications typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this specific course; however, the provider may offer bridging programs. Applicants should check the specific entry criteria on Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd's website. All CRICOS-registered courses require students to meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for the student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 28 weeks, with 10 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves an industry placement in early childhood education settings such as daycare centres, kindergartens, or preschools. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying their classroom learning to real-world environments. This placement is a core part of the qualification and may be scheduled throughout the course. It also provides valuable Australian workplace references for future employment.
The Diploma is delivered at Level 11, 474 Flinders Street, Melbourne, VIC. Melbourne is a major international student hub with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population exceeding 200,000. The campus is located in the central business district, within walking distance of Flinders Street Station and tram routes, making it accessible from all suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$350, plus groceries and transport. The city offers a vibrant arts scene, multicultural food, and numerous student support services.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and evidence of financial capacity. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All students are protected by the ESOS Act, which enforces educational quality and consumer rights. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (April 2026), and HeadStart Academy provides free guidance on visa processes, but always consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa advice.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and is often ranked among the world's most liveable. It offers a strong job market in early childhood education, with increasing demand for qualified educators. The city has a large international student community, with dedicated support services and multicultural networks. Public transport is efficient, and many campuses are well-connected. However, cost of living can be high, so budgeting is essential. Consider your personal preferences: Melbourne has a cooler climate, a dynamic food and coffee culture, and abundant parks and beaches. HeadStart Academy's location-specific resources can help you compare study destinations.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Verify that Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04123A) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to the institution – meet entry requirements, arrange English language tests, and submit your application with required documents before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, use the CoE to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to research CRICOS-registered early childhood courses in Melbourne, then apply directly to Austin Institute of Trades Pty Ltd.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Austin Institute of Trades 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.