Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119692A) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals who want to work in the early childhood education sector, providing care and education to children from birth to 5 years. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The course is delivered at the provider's campus in Melbourne's CBD, giving students access to vibrant city life and a diverse student community. With an indicative total cost of A$27,500, this course offers a pathway to roles such as early childhood educator or assistant. HeadStart Academy provides this detailed overview to help you make informed decisions about your study in Australia. Remember, all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. The course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), focusing on child development, learning frameworks, and practical skills. International students benefit from Australia's strong early childhood education industry and the support of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which protects your rights. Whether you're a school leaver or career changer, this certificate is a stepping stone to further qualifications in education.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care covers core competencies in child development, play-based learning, safety, and inclusion. Students learn to support children's wellbeing, design learning experiences, and work collaboratively with families. The course aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. Typical subjects include: Support children's health and safety, Provide care for children, Support inclusion and diversity, and Use an approved learning framework. Graduates are equipped to work in childcare centres, preschools, and long day care settings. This qualification is the foundation for further study into Diploma and Bachelor levels in early childhood education.
The course is scheduled for 52 weeks full-time, as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification). Students attend classes at the provider's campus in Melbourne. The academic calendar typically includes terms and breaks. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment load under their student visa conditions. The course is not offered as a foundation program.
Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register. Tuition: A$25,000. Non-tuition fees: A$2,500 (may include enrollment, materials, or administrative charges). Estimated total: A$27,500. These fees are set by Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with the provider. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$21,000 per year in Melbourne), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. For a detailed fee schedule, visit the provider's website.
General entry requirements for this Certificate III level course include: an overall IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent), completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and any prerequisite knowledge specified by the provider. Some providers may require a Working with Children Check. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course; however, the provider may offer preparatory options. Contact Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd for specific requirements. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa — consult a registered migration agent.
This course includes a work component of 8 weeks (approximately 160 total hours). The work-integrated learning involves an industry placement in an early childhood education setting. This practical experience allows students to apply theory in real childcare environments, develop professional skills, and build a network in the education sector. Placements are typically arranged by the provider. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for unpaid work placements related to their course.
The course is delivered at Level 8, 310 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 800 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is centrally located in the CBD, with excellent public transport access via trams and trains. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate, with indicative weekly expenses: rent A$200-350, groceries A$70-100, transport A$40-50. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse food, and world-class educational resources.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of financial capacity. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, which protects your tuition fees and ensures quality education. Always confirm your visa obligations with the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider and course are registered on CRICOS. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — Submit your application to Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport). Check application deadlines and entry requirements. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once admitted, you'll get a CoE. Then apply for the visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement and arrange OSHC.
Melbourne is a top destination for international students, with a strong education sector and high demand for early childhood educators. The city is known for its multicultural community, safety, and quality of life. Studying in Melbourne gives you access to diverse placement opportunities. However, consider the cost of living and competition for accommodation. HeadStart Academy helps you weigh these factors. For more on studying in Victoria, visit our Victoria state page.
Explore more Certificate III courses in Victoria or search all CRICOS-registered early childhood education programs on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Australian Institute of Community and Health Management Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Institute of Community and Health Management 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.