Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118910D) is a Diploma delivered by Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification prepares students to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings, applying specialised knowledge in child development, curriculum design, and regulatory compliance. As a CRICOS-registered course (03797M), it meets Australian standards for international students, giving you confidence in the quality of education. The course is delivered at the Southbank campus in Melbourne, Victoria, a state with over 250 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Studying early childhood education in Australia opens doors to a growing sector, with demand for qualified educators rising due to policy reforms and population growth.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care falls under the field of education (07 - Teacher Education) at AQF Level 5. Graduates typically learn to design and implement programs that support children's learning and development, understand legal and ethical frameworks, lead teams in early childhood settings, and foster respectful relationships with families and communities. While specific units vary by provider, the curriculum generally covers child development, behaviour guidance, health and safety, inclusion, and curriculum planning. This diploma provides the theoretical and practical foundation required for roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). Students are expected to attend classes on a full-time basis to meet the student visa conditions. The delivery location is at Ground Floor, 99 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank, VIC, a centrally located suburb of Melbourne. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students, with excellent public transport including trams and trains.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$11,750, with non-tuition fees of A$400, making an estimated total of A$12,150. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check the provider's website. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$30,000 per year, including rent (A$250-400/week), groceries (A$80-120/week), and transport (A$40-60/week).
For international students, the typical English language requirement is IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation studies or pathway options may be available for those who do not meet direct entry requirements — contact Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd for details.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may arrange voluntary work placements or part-time work to gain experience, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at: Ground Floor, 99 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank VIC 3006. Southbank is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its cultural precinct, restaurants, and proximity to the CBD. The campus is easily accessible by public transport, with Flinders Street Station and tram stops nearby. Melbourne offers a diverse student community and a high quality of life.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: studying full-time, maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, and having adequate health insurance (OSHC). Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. All CRICOS-registered institutions offer ESOS Act protections, ensuring your tuition fees are protected and you have access to complaint processes.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare Stirling Institute with other providers offering similar qualifications. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (including English test scores), gather your documents, and submit an application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview.
Victoria is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, with Melbourne consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. The state has over 250 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all fields. For early childhood education, Victoria has a strong early childhood sector, with government initiatives increasing investment in preschool programs. The cost of living in Melbourne is moderate compared to Sydney, and public transport is extensive. Consider the climate, culture, and job market when deciding if Victoria is the right fit for your studies.
Ready to take the next step? Use HeadStart Academy to compare Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care courses across Australia, or visit the Stirling Institute of Australia website to apply.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Stirling Institute of Australia 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.