Department for Education (CRICOS provider code 00018A) is a government CRICOS-registered provider offering 6 active courses to international students. Trading as South Australian Government Schools, this institution manages the enrolment of international students into public primary and secondary schools across South Australia. With a total capacity of 2,541 students, it provides a structured pathway from Primary School Studies through to the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. The Department for Education oversees a network of schools in Adelaide and regional areas, including Aberfoyle Park High School, Adelaide High School, and many others. All courses are classified under the Mixed Field Programmes (ASCED field 12), reflecting the broad-based curriculum offered in Australian schools. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it adheres to the ESOS Act protections, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer rights. Whether you are planning to start primary school or complete your secondary education in South Australia, the Department for Education offers a government-accredited pathway. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide accurate and up-to-date information for prospective students.
The Department for Education, trading as South Australian Government Schools, is a government CRICOS-registered provider with code 00018A. It offers 6 active courses across three levels: Primary School Studies, Junior Secondary Studies, and Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. With a registered capacity of 2,541 international students, it operates through a network of schools in Adelaide and regional South Australia. The institution's postal address is Adelaide, SA 5001, and its official website for international students is http://www.internationalstudents.sa.edu.au. All courses fall under the Mixed Field Programmes (ASCED field 12), which encompasses general school education. As a CRICOS-registered provider, it is subject to the ESOS Act, safeguarding the rights of international students. HeadStart Academy verifies all data from the CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trust.
In the CRICOS context, a 'Government' provider means a public institution funded and operated by a state or territory government. This includes public universities, TAFEs, and government schools. For international students, government providers often offer lower tuition fees than private institutions and follow state-regulated curricula. The Department for Education is a government entity managing public schools in South Australia. Studying at a government school ensures access to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) and pathways to Australian universities. Unlike private colleges or language schools, government schools are part of the public education system, with consistent quality standards overseen by the state government. This provider type is distinct from 'Private' providers, which include independent schools, private colleges, and vocational training organisations.
The Department for Education delivers courses through multiple schools across South Australia. Below are the delivery locations from the CRICOS register:
The Department for Education offers courses at three levels: Primary School Studies, Junior Secondary Studies, and Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Primary School Studies cater to students aged approximately 5 to 12, focusing on foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social development. Junior Secondary Studies (Years 8 to 10) provide a broad curriculum including English, mathematics, science, humanities, and languages. Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Years 11 and 12) leads to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), which is the qualification for university entry and employment. International students can complete their entire secondary education through this provider, with a clear pathway to tertiary studies in Australia. Each level is designed to meet the educational needs of international students while adhering to the Australian Curriculum and SACE standards.
All courses offered by the Department for Education are classified under ASCED field 12 - Mixed Field Programmes. This broad category encompasses general school education that does not specialise in a specific vocational or higher education field. It includes subjects such as English, mathematics, science, history, geography, languages, and the arts. Mixed Field Programmes are typical for primary and secondary school curricula, providing a well-rounded education. For international students, this means exposure to a comprehensive range of subjects before specialising in senior secondary years. The ASCED coding system helps students and regulators understand the nature of the course. HeadStart Academy lists the field to assist students in filtering courses by their area of interest.
International students enrolling in courses with the Department for Education will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in CRICOS-registered courses. Key requirements include: demonstration of Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, maintenance of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, and English language proficiency (often demonstrated through IELTS or equivalent, though some schools may offer ESL support). The Department of Home Affairs assesses visa applications on a case-by-case basis. It is important to note that student visa conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and course progress. For detailed guidance, refer to our Student Visa Subclass 500 Guide. While HeadStart Academy provides general information, we are not registered migration agents; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying to study with the Department for Education involves three clear steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy by filtering by course level, field, and location to find the right school. Second, apply directly to the Department for Education through their international student portal at http://www.internationalstudents.sa.edu.au. You will need to submit academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if required), and meet any specific school entry requirements. Application deadlines vary by school, so check ahead. Third, upon acceptance, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). With the CoE, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have all supporting documents, including OSHC coverage and financial evidence. The visa process can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is a popular destination for international students. It offers a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent for a share house is AUD 300-450, groceries AUD 80-120, and public transport AUD 30-50 with a student concession. The city has over 30,000 international students and excellent public transport via Adelaide Metro buses, trains, and trams. Regional schools in places like Balaklava or Aldinga offer a quieter, rural experience but may have limited transport options. South Australian government schools are known for high academic standards and strong support for international students. All CRICOS-registered providers are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund policies. Consider your academic goals, preferred location, and accommodation options when making your choice. HeadStart Academy helps you compare providers and courses to find the best fit.
Explore courses from Department for Education and other CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy today.
Department for Education (CRICOS 00018A) is a Government provider in Adelaide, SA with 6 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Primary R-6 (CRICOS 0101626) is listed at 364 weeks with tuition A$84,000 and estimated total A$92,317 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].