Department of Education (CRICOS provider code 01723A) is a government CRICOS-registered provider offering 7 active courses to international students. As the Western Australian government’s education authority, it manages public schools across the state, welcoming international students into primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary programs, as well as non-award short courses. With a registered capacity of 2,548 students, the Department of Education delivers education through a network of schools in cities and suburbs such as Albany, Alkimos, Applecross, and Armadale. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission or referral fees — covering 26,433 courses across all study levels and states. Student visa guidance is included for every course level, and ESOS Act protections apply to all listed institutions.
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The Department of Education is classified as a 'Government' provider on the CRICOS register. In Australia, government providers include public universities, TAFE institutes, and government schools — all funded and regulated by state or federal governments. This status assures international students that the institution meets rigorous quality standards and is subject to regular audits under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. For international students, choosing a government provider often means lower tuition fees compared to private institutions, access to well-established support services, and a curriculum aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Private providers, by contrast, include private colleges, language schools, and independent schools, which may offer more specialised programs but at higher cost. The Department of Education operates over 800 public schools in WA, but only a subset are CRICOS-registered to enrol international students.
The Department of Education delivers courses across multiple cities and suburbs in Western Australia. Below are the delivery locations grouped by suburb, including postcodes. Note that each school is a separate delivery site registered under the same CRICOS provider. Mount Clarence: Albany Senior High School (6330). Alkimos: Alkimos College (6038). Applecross: Applecross Primary School (6153) and Applecross Senior High School (6153). Ardross: Applecross Senior High School (6153) — note Ardross is the suburb for this senior high campus. Armadale: Armadale Senior High School (6112). Gosnells: Ashburton Drive Primary School (6110). Darch: Ashdale Secondary College (6065). Atwell: Atwell College (6164). This network spans metropolitan Perth and regional centres, offering students a range of school environments. International students typically live with host families or guardians while attending these schools. Cost of living in WA varies: Perth’s indicative weekly rent is around AUD $450–$600 for a one-bedroom apartment, with groceries at $80–$150 and public transport $40–$60. Regional areas are generally cheaper. For an up-to-date guide, visit the Department of Home Affairs.
The Department of Education offers courses at four distinct levels on the CRICOS register: Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, Non AQF Award, Primary School Studies, and Junior Secondary Studies. At the senior secondary level (Years 11–12), international students can complete the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), which is recognised for university admission. Primary School Studies (Years K–6) and Junior Secondary Studies (Years 7–10) provide foundational education with a focus on literacy, numeracy, and social development. Non AQF Award courses include short-term study programs, such as English language intensive courses or cultural exchanges, which do not lead to a formal AQF qualification but offer valuable learning experiences. Each level has specific entry requirements and duration; for example, senior secondary typically requires a minimum IELTS score of 5.5. For full details, refer to the Department of Education’s website.
The only ASCED field of education offered by the Department of Education is 12 – Mixed Field Programmes. This broad field encompasses general education programs that combine multiple subject areas, such as general primary and secondary schooling. According to the Australian Standard Classification of Education (ASCED), Mixed Field Programmes are designed to provide a comprehensive education rather than specialisation in a single discipline. For international students, this means exposure to a wide range of subjects including English, mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts. While the Department does not offer specialised fields like Information Technology or Health, its general programs prepare students for further study or entry into vocational pathways. Over 26,000 courses are available across Australia in various fields; for specialised programs, consider other CRICOS-registered providers.
International students enrolling in CRICOS-registered courses with the Department of Education require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5 for secondary school), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For students under 18, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) may be necessary if a parent or relative accompanies them. The Department of Education may impose additional conditions, such as welfare arrangements for minors. HeadStart Academy provides detailed visa guides, but always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections ensure international students receive quality education and have access to tuition refund mechanisms if the provider fails to deliver.
Applying to the Department of Education as an international student involves three steps. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers and courses on the official register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) or via HeadStart Academy. Filter by course level (e.g., Senior Secondary), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and location (WA). Step 2: Apply directly to the Department of Education. Submit your application through the TAFE International Western Australia website (www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au) or the specific school’s enrolment form. You’ll need to provide academic transcripts, English test results, and evidence of financial capacity. Application deadlines vary — typically 6–12 months before the start of Term 1 (February) or Term 3 (July). Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Use the CoE to apply online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, GTE statement, and sufficient funds. Visa processing times range from 4 to 8 weeks. For detailed guidance, visit our Student Visa page.
Always verify the CRICOS registration status of any provider before applying. The Department of Education’s provider code is 01723A, and its registration can be confirmed at the official CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au). As of April 2026, the provider is in good standing with 7 active courses. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the CRICOS register, updated periodically. Note that registration status may change; always check current status at the TEQSA website. The ESOS Act ensures that only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, giving you legal protections. If a provider is not on the register, they cannot lawfully issue a CoE. Ask the institution for their CRICOS code and cross-check it.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience for international students. Perth, the capital, is known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. Public transport is reliable with trains, buses, and ferries. The cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, making it attractive for budget-conscious students. Regional areas like Albany provide a quieter lifestyle with access to nature. The Department of Education’s schools are spread across both metro and regional areas, giving you options. However, WA is geographically isolated, so travel to other states can be expensive. Consider your preferences: if you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with outdoor activities, WA is ideal. If you prefer a bustling city with more entertainment options, Sydney or Melbourne might be better. HeadStart Academy’s state guide for WA offers more insights.
Explore all CRICOS-registered courses in WA or start your application today.
Department of Education (CRICOS 01723A) is a Government provider in Osborne Park Dc, WA with 7 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Senior Secondary Certificate of Education Years 11 & 12 (CRICOS 025727K) is listed at 104 weeks with tuition A$37,960 and estimated total A$40,960 [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].