Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) - CHC33021

VOCATIONAL

Become a carer and provide expert and compassionate support to those who need it the most. 

Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 6 months
Full-time 9 months
or part-time equivalent
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Do you want to make a positive impact in the lives of others or formalise your carer qualifications? Become a fully qualified carer/support worker.

There is increased demand for aged care workers through changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Launch your career in this expanding industry and attain the skills to provide expert individual support in aged care and disability settings.

Gain this qualification through an innovative combination of face-to-face training and increased work placement hours. You'll gain experience in both leading aged care and disability service spaces and online self-directed study, including virtual reality technology. 

Co-designed with industry, aged care residents, people with disabilities and carers, with the aim of raising the quality of care in the sector, this certificate course is designed to prepare you for a broad range of careers and pathways within social services.

Why study individual support (ageing, disability) at RMIT?

Industry input

Our Program Advisory Committee has significant input into course content, ensuring industry relevance.

Work placement

Build hands-on experience in leading social service organisations, covering both aged care and disability.

Sector partnerships

Offered in partnership with the Victorian Council of Social Services, and supported by the Workforce Innovation & Development Institute.

Subject clusters

Subject clusters have been developed and delivered over six months, with a weekly commitment of two days face-to-face at the city campus and one day online for student support and assessments, allowing you to study and manage other commitments. You’ll learn about:

  • infection prevention and work health and safety
  • communication, diversity and law
  • body health
  • empowerment
  • independence and wellbeing
  • ageing specialisation
  • disability specialisation.

You will also complete 120 hours of work placements at leading social service organisations in both aged care and disability. 

This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.

Details

Throughout this course, you will receive personalised education and training to develop work practices for better client outcomes.

Learning and teaching

Learning clusters are delivered over six months, with a weekly commitment of two days face-to-face at RMIT city campus plus one day online.

You will undertake an independent, 120-hour work placement in an aged care facility and in a disability service setting. You will receive ongoing support while completing these placements, gaining hands-on experience at leading social service organisations. 

Assessment methods

Assessment will be based on demonstration of skills, the application of knowledge in a workplace context, and how you integrate these skills in preparation for the contingencies and demands of a busy workplace.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

The Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing, Disability) has been developed with significant industry input.

All course content, delivery and assessment is informed by industry through a Program Advisory Committee. 

The disability specialisation was added to this qualification to introduce you to disability work as demands increase with the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The program also includes specialist content provided by Women with Disabilities Victoria, Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and experts by experience.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this certificate and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

This qualification requires the completion of 15 units – 9 core units and 6 elective units.

Your core study will focus on safe, ethical and inclusive work practices. You will develop an understanding of healthy body systems and learn how to support the wellbeing of those in your care.

The ageing specialisation introduces you to the specific needs of older people and teaches you how to provide empathetic support for those living with conditions such as dementia. The disability specialisation will help you to develop strategies to promote social inclusion and work effectively in disability support.

In addition to developing skills to effectively work in roles that involve service delivery, client work and/or community education, this program aims to help you to develop broad employability skills. 

Individual Support workers are empathetic, patient and detail-oriented people with strong communication skills. They follow individualised plans to meet the specific needs of those in their care, in both community-based and residential settings. You’ll study topics including how to support and empower older people and those with a disability, and safe work practices.

The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support reflects the role of support workers in the ageing and disability sectors, who provide person-centred support to older people, as well as those with physical, developmental or cognitive disabilities. This is an entry level certificate that offers blended learning, including face-to-face training, work placements and online study (including virtual reality technology).

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Program code: C3416
National curriculum code: CHC33021

Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
City Campus
6 months full-time
C3416
Location
City Campus
Duration
6 months full-time
Plan code
C3416
CRICOS
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
City Campus
9 months full-time or part-time equivalent
C3416IND
N/A
Location
City Campus
Duration
9 months full-time or part-time equivalent
Plan code
C3416IND
CRICOS
N/A
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
City Campus
9 months full-time
C3416IND
N/A
Location
City Campus
Duration
9 months full-time
Plan code
C3416IND
CRICOS
N/A

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

This certificate qualification sets you up to work in roles such as:

  • residential care worker
  • nurse’s aid
  • accommodation support worker
  • personal care assistant
  • home care assistant
  • family support worker
  • accommodation support worker
  • community house worker.

Previous graduates have gained employment from various organisations including the BlueCross residential aged care, Arcare, Annecto and Scope.

Admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following academic (entry) requirements to be considered for entry into this course.

There are no minimum academic requirements. You must be at least 18 years of age by the commencement date of the program.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

Additional information

If you are successful in obtaining a place in this program, you must meet a number of professional compliance requirements upon commencement of your studies.

Working With Children Check*

Applicants will be required to hold a valid Victorian Working with Children (WWC) Check (valid for 5 years) prior to undertaking professional placement as part of this program.

Note: For placements undertaken interstate a valid WWC Check is required for that state.

National Police Record Check*

Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for professional placements as part of this program. National Police Record Checks are conducted via fit2work.
An account with fit2work will be created using the student’s name and the RMIT issued student email address, once studies in the program have commenced. Further information will be provided once enrolment has been completed.

NDIS Worker Screening Check*

Applicants may be required to apply for, and receive an acceptable NDIS Worker Screening Check prior to undertaking professional placement with an NDIS provider as part of this program.

COVID19 Vaccination*:

You will be required to undertake COVID19 Vaccination as part of this program. Further information will be provided once enrolment has been completed.

Influenza Vaccination*:

You will be required to undertake annual influenza vaccination as part of this program. Further information will be provided once enrolment has been completed.

Please note: Additional immunisations may be required in response to changes in Government regulations or at the request of the placement host organisation.

*All relevant screening and compliance check fees are the responsibility of the student. 

Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed a qualification recognised by RMIT as equivalent to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) with a minimum average of 65% (see calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred degree. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

You must meet the entry requirements to gain access to this course. Please contact Study@RMIT to discuss your options.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Graduates of this course will be guaranteed entry into the courses below, provided age requirements are met (where applicable).

For more information, explore our Pathway finder, or contact Study@RMIT.

Fees

Free TAFE for priority courses

The Victorian Government is currently waiving tuition fees for this program for students who meet eligibility requirements for government subsidised places.

Tuition fees

The tuition fees you will pay for this program will depend on whether you are offered a Victorian Government subsidised place or a full-fee place. To find out if you are eligible for a government subsidised place, follow the steps at How to check if you are eligible.

  • 2024 government subsidised place (with concession): AU$900* per annum
  • 2024 government subsidised place: AU$4,500* per annum
  • 2024 full-fee place: AU$8,000* per annum

*Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.

Fee finder

Use our fee finder to get an estimate of your fees for this program.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$351 maximum fee for 2024.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

The student tuition fees as displayed by the fee finder are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Eligibility Exemption criteria

**The Victorian Government is currently waiving three (3) eligibility criteria around prior qualifications. This means that more people who want to study a vocational education program at RMIT, and who have studied previously, will be able to access a government subsidised place in a program. Find out how to check your eligibility

Defer your payment

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.

Payments and refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2024 is $351.  

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$XX,XXX.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$XX,XXX.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

Sorry, this program is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa.

If you hold a different visa type, you may be eligible. Please contact Study@RMIT for more information.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.