Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119084C) is a Certificate III delivered by Macallan College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is ideal for international students seeking to launch a career in early childhood education, a field with strong demand across Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider code 03468F), it meets the rigorous standards of the Australian education system, ensuring students receive quality training. The course covers essential skills for nurturing and educating children from birth to age five, preparing graduates for roles in childcare centres, kindergartens, and other early learning settings. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), providing a trustworthy foundation for your study plans. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Certificate III is one of the most sought-after in vocational education. With delivery locations in Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney (Harris Park), and Perth, students can choose a city that suits their lifestyle and career goals. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, giving international students legal rights while studying in Australia.
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This qualification falls under the field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood). At the Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students gain foundational knowledge and practical skills to support children's learning and development. Typical topics include child development, health and safety, cultural competence, creating inclusive play-based learning environments, and working collaboratively with families and communities. While HeadStart Academy does not endorse specific curricula, graduates from this program are equipped to implement approved learning frameworks and adhere to national quality standards. The course combines theoretical learning with hands-on practice, ensuring students are job-ready upon completion. Australia's early childhood sector values qualified educators, and this Certificate III is a stepping stone to further study such as a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
The course 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 component). Full-time study is typical, with a combination of classroom-based learning, online modules (where applicable), and mandatory work placement. International students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are A$14,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$1,500, giving an estimated total of A$15,500. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Macallan College Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students; see our OSHC guide for typical costs. Living costs vary by city: in Brisbane or Adelaide, weekly expenses may range from $400–$600, while Sydney and Perth are higher. HeadStart Academy provides indicative cost breakdowns to help you budget.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent English language test). Academic requirements include completion of Australian Year 11 or equivalent (e.g., high school certificate from your home country). No prior qualifications in early childhood education are strictly required, but a genuine interest in working with children is essential. Macallan College may offer pathway options for students who need additional English or academic support—contact the provider directly for details. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most current entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 160 total hours). This is an industry placement or internship in an approved early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, develop professional skills, and build networks within the Australian early childhood sector. Placements are supervised and assessed by Macallan College. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can include this placement as part of their course requirements; note that work hours during placement count towards the 48 hours per fortnight limit during term time.
Macallan College delivers this course at four locations across Australia: Macallan Brisbane Campus (EAST BRISBANE, QLD), Macallan College Pty Ltd (Adelaide - SA) in Adelaide, SA, Macallan College Pty Ltd (Harris Park - NSW) in HARRIS PARK, NSW (a suburb of Sydney), and Macallan College Pty Ltd (Perth - WA) in PERTH, WA. Each city offers a unique student experience. Brisbane and Adelaide have lower living costs compared to Sydney and Perth, while Sydney offers a bustling multicultural environment and Perth boasts a relaxed lifestyle with strong job prospects in the childcare sector. All campuses are accessible via public transport. When choosing a location, consider climate, part-time work opportunities, and personal preferences. Queensland has over 100 registered providers offering Certificate III courses, while South Australia, NSW, and Western Australia each have numerous options.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macallan College, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.0–5.5 or equivalent), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and health insurance. Once on a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). OSHC is mandatory; it covers medical and hospital costs. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded if the provider fails. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice, as HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Macallan College Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and city. Compare Macallan College with other providers to find the best fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy) and submit an application through Macallan College's admissions portal. Check their entry requirements and application deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macallan College will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet all visa conditions including OSHC and financial capacity.
This course is offered in four Australian cities: Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney (Harris Park), and Perth. Each city has distinct advantages. Brisbane (QLD) is known for its warm climate and lower cost of living—weekly rent for a share house averages $200–$300. Adelaide (SA) is even more affordable and has a vibrant student community. Sydney (NSW) offers a fast-paced environment but higher living costs (rent $350–$550/week). Perth (WA) combines a relaxed lifestyle with strong demand for early childhood educators due to growing population. All cities have excellent public transport connectivity to campuses. Consider your budget, career network, and personal preferences when choosing. Remember, Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, so you have flexibility. HeadStart Academy provides city guides to help you decide.
Start your study abroad journey today. Research CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy and find the perfect course for your career in early childhood education.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macallan 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.