Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CRICOS course code 119902G) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Capital Training Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 7 months (~82 weeks). This CRICOS-registered course is designed for international students seeking a strong foundation in building and construction management. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it covers project planning, site supervision, contract administration, and building compliance. Graduates can pursue roles as building supervisors or construction managers, or continue into higher-level studies. The course is offered at two prime locations: Melbourne’s CBD and Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, giving students a choice between a bustling urban environment and a coastal lifestyle. Only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, ensuring your education is protected under the ESOS Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering more than 26,000 courses — making it vital to choose a program that fits your goals and budget. HeadStart Academy provides this guide using official CRICOS data (April 2026) as a free, independent resource. Below you’ll find indicative fees, entry requirements, visa guidance, and practical information about studying building and construction in Australia.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CRICOS 119902G) is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 5, within the field of Architecture and Building (04) and specifically Building (0403). The course is delivered by Australian Capital Training Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03756J), a private provider. The duration is 1 year 7 months (~82 weeks), with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The VET national code is CPC50220. This diploma equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in building construction, including reading plans, estimating costs, managing contracts, and ensuring compliance with Australian building codes. Graduates may work in residential or commercial construction, or progress to a bachelor’s degree in construction management. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students can gain experience through part-time work during their studies, subject to visa conditions.
This diploma covers the core competencies required for a career in building and construction. Under the field of Education 040300 (Building, n.f.d.), students learn about project management, building regulations, structural principles, and sustainable construction practices. Typical subjects include contract administration, estimating, site supervision, and quality control. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of similar programs often develop skills in cost planning, procurement, and team leadership. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards and prepare students for roles such as site supervisor, estimator, or construction project coordinator. Practical assessments and assignments simulate real-world building scenarios. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government’s quality standards for international education.
The course runs for 1 year 7 months (~82 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. With a single qualification focus (no dual award), students can commit fully to building and construction studies. The duration includes scheduled teaching periods and breaks. While the mode is not specified as online, the provider may offer face-to-face classes at their campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. This diploma is classified as a VET course, so attendance and progress are monitored. The 82-week timeframe allows for in-depth coverage of construction theory and practical application.
Indicative fees for Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) at Australian Capital Training Institute are A$18,000 for tuition, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, giving an estimated total of A$20,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by the provider. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs roughly A$500–A$700 per year. Living costs vary by location — Melbourne’s weekly rent averages A$200–A$350 for shared accommodation, while Surfers Paradise ranges A$180–A$300. You should budget an additional A$10,000–A$15,000 per year for living expenses. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Capital Training Institute before applying, as fees may change.
International applicants to this diploma should generally have an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). For AQF Level 5 entry, completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is typically expected, along with any prerequisite subjects. Some providers may accept mature-age students with relevant work experience. There is no foundation studies component for this particular course, but if you need additional English or academic preparation, ask the provider about pathway options. All entry requirements are at the discretion of Australian Capital Training Institute — contact them for specific details and to confirm English test validity periods. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This flexibility allows you to gain practical experience while studying. Many students in building and construction find part-time work in trades, labouring, or retail to supplement their income and build local networks. Although not required, seeking volunteer or work experience in the construction industry can enhance your resume and employability after graduation.
Australian Capital Training Institute delivers this course at two campuses: Melbourne Campus at 364 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, and a Surfers Paradise campus on Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD. Melbourne is a major education hub with over 100,000 international students and many CRICOS-registered providers. It offers excellent public transport via trains, trams, and buses, and a diverse cultural scene. Living costs are moderate for a capital city. Surfers Paradise, on the Gold Coast, has a growing student population and a relaxed beach lifestyle. It is served by bus and light rail. Cost of living is slightly lower than Melbourne, especially for rent near the campus. Both locations provide access to industry networks and potential job opportunities in construction. Consider your preference for city versus coastal living when choosing.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, maintain full-time study, and provide evidence of English proficiency, financial capacity, and health insurance (OSHC). You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members may accompany you under a Student Dependent visa. It is important to plan for OSHC, which covers medical and hospital costs. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) at Australian Capital Training Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to verify that Australian Capital Training Institute (CRICOS 03756J) and course 119902G are currently registered. Check course details, delivery locations, and fees. 2. Apply directly to Australian Capital Training Institute – Prepare your application documents, including academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, and any other required evidence. Submit via the provider’s online portal or email. Pay the application fee (if any) and wait for a Letter of Offer. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE from the provider. Use this to lodge your Subclass 500 visa application online. Include all supporting documents and pay the visa application charge. After approval, arrange OSHC and travel to Australia.
Choosing between Melbourne and Surfers Paradise depends on your lifestyle preferences, budget, and career goals. Melbourne offers a vibrant city life with a competitive construction industry, high student diversity, extensive public transport, and cultural attractions. Weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–A$350, and a monthly transport pass costs about A$160. Surfers Paradise provides a more relaxed beach environment, lower rent (A$180–A$300 per week), and an emerging construction sector driven by tourism and residential development. The Gold Coast has a smaller but growing international student community. Both locations have reputable CRICOS providers and access to practical training facilities. Consider visiting each city or using online resources to get a feel for the atmosphere before applying.
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Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Capital Training Institute 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.