Certificate III in Individual Support (CRICOS course code 118987E) is a Certificate III delivered by The Performance College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (CHC33021) is designed for those seeking to work in the aged care, home and community care, or disability support sectors. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 04180C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With a strong work-integrated learning component, graduates are prepared to provide person-centred support to individuals in residential or community settings. The course is taught in English at the Melbourne campus, offering a pathway to rewarding roles in Australia's growing care economy. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' and specifically within Human Welfare Studies and Services (code 0905), focusing on Care for the Aged (090507). At the Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students learn practical skills to support older people with daily living activities, promote independence, and work effectively in a team. Typical learning outcomes include understanding individualised care plans, communication strategies, safety procedures, and legal and ethical considerations in aged care. The curriculum aligns with industry standards and prepares graduates for roles such as personal care assistant or support worker. Note: this is a general description based on the field classification; for exact syllabus details, refer to The Performance College's official documentation.
The Certificate III in Individual Support is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). The course is offered on a full-time basis at the Melbourne campus. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning, practical simulations, and workplace-based training to meet the competency standards.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,250, bringing the estimated total to A$16,250. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by The Performance College Pty Ltd. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Living expenses in Melbourne are estimated at approximately A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider's website. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only, and they should not be taken as guaranteed.
International students typically need an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall. Applicants should have completed an Australian Year 10 or equivalent, or relevant work experience. Prior qualifications at the Certificate II level in a related field may be advantageous. Foundation or pathway options may be available; contact The Performance College for details. All entry requirements are set by the provider; HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility. Consult the provider's website for the most current and detailed requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks at 24 hours per week, totaling approximately 120 hours. This work-integrated learning involves an industry placement such as working in an aged care facility or community care setting under supervision. It provides hands-on experience in delivering individual support, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Placements are arranged by the provider and are integral to meeting the competency standards of the qualification. Students should be prepared to undergo a police check and possibly a working with children check.
The course is delivered at the Melbourne Campus located at Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant international student community of over 150,000. The campus is in the Central Business District (CBD), easily accessible by public transport (trains, trams, buses). Melbourne offers a high quality of life, diverse culture, and excellent student support services. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with median weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–350.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time on CRICOS registration. The visa allows work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Applicants must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration, and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses all visa applications. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to start your application: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. 2) Apply directly to The Performance College – meet entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications), submit required documents, and adhere to application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Always check the provider's website for exact procedures.
Melbourne is home to over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering aged care and community services courses. The city's strong demand for skilled aged care workers makes it an excellent place to study Individual Support. With a multicultural population, extensive public transport, and a wide range of student accommodation options, Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities. However, the cost of living is higher than regional areas – budget for A$1,500–2,500 per month. Consider your personal preferences for city life versus quieter settings before choosing.
Ready to start your studies? Explore this course further on The Performance College's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses in Victoria.
Certificate III in Individual Support is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Performance College 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.