Certificate III in Individual Support

Kickstart your career in the community services sector with the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support. This entry-level qualification reflects the role of individuals working in aged care, disability support, and home and community care. It equips you with the skills and knowledge to provide personalised support and care across a range of settings.

Through a blend of theory and hands-on experience, you will undertake training in safe work practices, communication, teamwork, and person-centred support. This qualification is ideal for those looking to work in the aged care sector, disability services, or as an NDIS worker, and may also serve as a stepping stone toward the Diploma of Community Services.

The course you will gain delivers a strong foundation in providing individual support as well as taking part in a multi-disciplinary team, supported by our training plan, student support, and access to a flexible learning management system.

• Supporting independence and wellbeing
• Facilitating empowerment
• Providing personal care
• Communication and teamwork
• Safe work practices
• Working with diverse people

There are a total of 15 units of competency to complete this course. This includes 9 core units and 6 elective units.

Core Units

• CHCCCS031 Provide individualised support
• CHCCCS038 Facilitate the empowerment of people receiving support
• CHCCCS040 Support independence and wellbeing
• CHCCCS041 Recognise healthy body systems
• CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community services
• CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
• CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically
• HLTINF006 Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control
• HLTWHS002 Follow safe work practices for direct client care

Elective Units

• CHCCCS044 Follow established person-centred behaviour supports
• CHCDIS012 Support community participation and social inclusion
• CHCDIS011 Contribute to ongoing skills development using a strengths-based approach
• CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support
• CHCAGE011 Provide support to people living with dementia
• CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety

General Entry Requirements

All applicants seeking to enrol at the Victorian International Institute of Technical Education (VIITE) must meet the following minimum entry requirements:

Age Requirement :

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of course commencement.

English Language Proficiency (International Students)

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following:

• IELTS : Minimum overall band score of 6.0 (test results must be no more than 2 years old).
• Education in English : Evidence of at least 5 years of study in an English-speaking country.
• Previous Study in Australia : Completion of a Certificate III or higher qualification at an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO) within the last 2 years.
• Other English Language Tests : Equivalent scores in recognised tests such as PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Results must also be within 2 years from the test date.

To verify equivalency to an IELTS score of 6.0, use the comparison tools provided at: Compare IELTS Scores

Numeracy Skills Requirement

Applicants must also satisfy the course-specific numeracy requirements, which may be assessed through:

• A language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) test conducted by VIITE, or
• Equivalent qualification or experience demonstrating sufficient numeracy competence.

Course-Specific Requirements

Some courses may have additional requirements, such as:

• Work placement prerequisites (e.g. police checks, vaccinations, working with children checks).
• Physical capacity to complete tasks specific to the industry (e.g. for cookery, healthcare, or construction courses).
• Portfolio submission, interview assessment, or prior program completion may be required for selected courses or specific qualifications.

• A Federal Police Check (name check), no more than 6 months
• An NDIS Worker Screening Check when required
• Evidence of up-to-date vaccination as required
• Applicants must be physically capable of doing general lifting and be prepared to be on their feet for long stretches of time.

• Total Number of Units = 15
• 9 Core Units
• 6 Elective Units

You will also be introduced to a range of factual, technical and procedural knowledge, as well as theoretical knowledge of the concepts and practices required to provide person-centred care.

• Offshore Student Tuition Fee: $AU 12,400.00 (This fee excludes the material and enrolment fees)

For all enquiries regarding student fees, please contact us at enquiries@viite.edu.au or telephone 1300 318 747

All fees are subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the Fees and Refund Policy.

This qualification opens doors to careers in ageing and disability services. With a CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support, you’ll be equipped to provide person-centred support to people in residential care, aged care facilities, or private homes, offering essential welfare support and emotional care to those who require support due to ageing or disability.

• Disability Support Worker
• Home Care Assistant
• Community Care Worker
• Residential Support Worker
• NDIS Support Worker

As part of the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support, students must undertake 120 hours of work placement beginning in Term 04.

Training is delivered by qualified trainers and assessors through structured sessions that include trainer-led instruction, practical activities, and independent learning. Assessment is conducted using a range of methods, including practical demonstrations, written assessments, projects, and workplace-based assessment where applicable. Learners receive ongoing support throughout the program, and progress is monitored to ensure achievement of competency in accordance with national training package requirements.

Completion of this nationally recognised qualification does not guarantee employment, promotion, or licencing/registration outcomes.  Where licensing or regulatory requirements apply, these are determined by the relevant State or Territory authority and may change.  Learners are responsible for confirming current requirements with the appropriate authority prior to enrolment or completion.

What Skills and Competencies Will I Develop During This Course?

You’ll develop technical and interpersonal skills to support person-centred care, promote wellbeing, ensure safety, and communicate effectively in aged care or disability settings.

What Kind of Support Is Available to Students During Their Studies (e.g., Tutoring, Mentoring)?

VIITE provides comprehensive student support including one-on-one tutoring, trainer mentoring, language and learning assistance, dedicated student services staff, and access to counselling and wellbeing services throughout your studies.

What Is the Difference Between the Ageing and Disability Specialisations on This Certificate?

The ageing specialisation focuses on supporting older people in residential aged care or in the community, while the disability specialisation prepares you to support people living with disability to maintain independence and participate in community life. VIITE offers electives across both streams so you can tailor your qualification to your career goals.

Do I Need Previous Experience in the Healthcare or Disability Sector to Enrol?

No prior experience is needed. This entry-level qualification is designed for beginners looking to enter the care industry.

Do You Have a Flexible Schedule for the Course? Is It Possible to Study Part-Time or at My Own Pace?

Yes. The course includes flexible delivery options, typically over 3 days per week.

What Personal Qualities or Attributes Are Best Suited to an Individual Support Career?

A successful individual support worker is empathetic, patient, respectful and reliable, with strong communication skills, cultural awareness and a genuine commitment to person-centred care.

What Are Typical Job Roles for Someone With This Qualification?

Graduates may work as a Disability Support Worker, Home Care Assistant, NDIS Worker, or Support Worker in community or aged care facilities.

Do You Offer Financial Assistance or Government Funding for This Course?

Yes, you may be eligible for Free TAFE or other funding support, subject to individual circumstances and eligibility.

How Much Is Certificate III in Individual Support?

The course fees are AU $12,000 (Offshore), excluding materials and enrolment fees. Pricing is subject to change.

How Long Is Certificate III in Individual Support?

The course runs for 52 weeks, including a minimum of 120 hours of work placement in a relevant care setting.

How Can I Pay for This Course?

Fees can be paid upfront or in instalments. Speak with our team for available payment plans and enrolment support.

What Are the Assessment Methods?

Assessments include written tasks, practical observations, case studies, and demonstrating skills during work placement.

Why Study With Victorian International Institute of Technical Education (VIITE)?

VIITE offers quality training, flexible learning, expert trainers, and real industry placements in the aged care and disability support sectors.