Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne
CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care – Melbourne Course CRICOS Code: 114143DEnrolling in the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in Australia opens up numerous career opportunities.
Course Overview
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne is a nationally recognised Australian vocational qualification that reflects the role of educators working in regulated children’s education and care services across Australia. Graduates of this childcare course in Melbourne are equipped to support children’s wellbeing, development, and learning within the context of an approved learning framework, as prescribed by ACECQA (the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority).
Early childhood educators completing this Certificate 3 in childcare apply a range of well-developed skills and professional knowledge, exercising sound discretion and judgment in their day-to-day work. They operate within the context of established policies and procedures and may work independently or under the guidance of a senior educator — including in settings where direct on-site supervision is not always available.
Graduates of this early childhood education course in Melbourne are qualified to work across a variety of regulated settings, including:
- ▸ Long-day care centres — full-day early education and care environments
- ▸ Family day care — home-based childcare services
- ▸ Pre-schools and kindergartens — early learning programmes for children aged 3–5
- ▸ Outside school hours care (OSHC) — before/after school and vacation care programmes
With Australia facing a projected shortage of nearly 100,000 early childhood educators by 2034, completing a Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne at WMIT positions you at the forefront of one of the country’s fastest-growing and most essential industries. This qualification is also the gateway to further study, including the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and supports pathways toward Australian skilled migration for eligible international students.
WMIT’s Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne is delivered face-to-face at our Melbourne CBD campus, 474 Flinders St. This Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care course is CRICOS-approved (114143D) and open to both domestic and international students. If you are looking for a trusted Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne, WMIT provides the structured support, practical placement, and nationally recognised qualification you need to launch your childcare career in Australia.
Program Overview
Entry Requirements
- Academic Requirements:
- Whilst there are no entry requirements stipulated in the training package, WMIT requires its Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care participants to meet the following criteria:
- 18 years or older at commencement of course.
- Cert III in EAL / Academic IELTS band score of 6.0 or equivalent
- Completion Australian Year 11 or equivalent
- Additional Requirements:
- The student must have basic computer skills to use word processing software like Microsoft Word and the internet effectively for research.
- WMIT will conduct an LLN assessment of the student at the time of orientation to identify the support required by the students. This support will enable students to complete the qualification successfully within the required timeframe.
Career Pathways & Education Pathways
- Once you have successfully completed the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care you can apply for jobs within the Childcare industry, which may include:
- Early childhood educator
- Family Day Care Educator
- Playgroup Supervisor
- Outside school hours care and vacation care workers
- The further study pathways available to students who undertake this qualification include:
- Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care OR
- Any other relevant qualification at Diploma level
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care requires the completion of the following 17 units (including 15 core and 2 electives).
Course Credit
-
WMIT can grant you credit towards your course for units of competency that you have already completed with another RTO or authorised issuing organisation.
We can also grant you Credit for subjects or units you have completed where equivalence can be established between the unit in your course and the subject or unit you have completed. - There is no charge to apply for Credit.
- To apply, fill in the Credit Application Form and submit it as part of your enrolment.
-
*Please refer to your Student Handbook for more information on Course Credit.
As an international student, you should note that where you are granted credit, this will reduce your course duration and you will be informed of this in writing.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process where skills and knowledge that you have gained through work and life experience and other unrecognised training can be formally recognised.
- WMIT has a process that has been structured to minimise the time and cost to applicants and provides a supportive approach to students wishing to take up this option. You should ideally apply for RPL at the time of enrolment, but you may also apply up to 2 weeks into your course.
- During the entry process and interview stage for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, WMIT will discuss with you the process and options for RPL. Suitability is often determined on how much experience you have in a certain area, your work history and previous training. If RPL is determined as a possibility for you, you will be provided with a kit that will guide you in working through each unit to determine relevant skills and experience and identify whether you would be able to provide the required evidence.
- A trainer/assessor will be available to assist you throughout this process.
- *Please refer to your Student Handbook for more information on RPL. As an international student you should note that where you are granted RPL this will reduce your course duration and you will be informed of this in writing.
Training & Placement Arrangements
Training Arrangements
✓
Class sessions are planned to ensure that student have a mixture of practical and theoretical components and those classes cater for a wide variety of learning styles. Additionally, workplace practices and environments will be regularly simulated and used to conduct skills based assessments in accordance with unit requirements.
✓
WMIT organises face to face training of 20 hours per week, all the international student must attend the classes to comply with student visa conditions.
✓
Homework tasks may include research, readings from related textbooks and continuing to work on assessment tasks.
✓
Students are provided with the Learner Guides for each unit to students to support their learning (these are included in the course fees).
Placement Arrangements
✓
Work Placement is an important component of the qualification that provides students with the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge in early childhood education and care setting. Students are required to complete a minimum 160 hours of work placement in a regulated Children’s Education and Care Services Centre in Australia for successful completion of the course.
✓
This work placement is only to be conducted in a regulated Children’s Education and Care Services Centre that has entered into a work placement agreement with WMIT.
✓
The students will be provided with Skills Workbook containing assessment tasks and activities to be completed during work placement and the students will need to complete the workplace tasks. WMIT trainer/assessor will visit and observe students in the workplace to determine the students’ competency in the practical component of the course. WMIT trainer/assessor will act as a liaison between the workplace, workplace supervisors and WMIT through emails, calls and compulsory visits.
Additional Support & Assessment Arrangements
Additional Support
All students will complete a language, literacy and numeracy assessment at orientation to determine their learning support needs as they pursue a Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne. All students will be provided with a range of learning support options and resources to help you achieve competency. Where additional support needs have been identified an Individual Support Plan will be developed which may include:
Provision of additional support services will be provided where necessary to enable students to participate in the same way as any other person regardless of whether support services have been required.
Assessment Arrangement
There are a variety of assessment methods used for this qualification including:
Why Study Early Childhood Education
✓
Studying early childhood education involves acquiring the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support children during their most critical developmental years.
✓
The CHC30121 Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care gives you a solid foundation to work confidently in real learning environments while developing strong professional practice.
✓
By completing the Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne, you’ll learn how to guide behaviour, support learning and create engaging, safe spaces for children. With strong industry demand across Melbourne, this qualification offers a clear path into meaningful work and sets you up for further study as your career grows
International Student Support
✓
WMIT offers dedicated support to help international students settle while pursuing a Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne.
✓
From your first orientation session for Certificate 3 in Childcare, you’ll have access to academic guidance, wellbeing resources and ongoing help with language, literacy and numeracy needs. Trainers are available for mentoring, extra workshops and study assistance whenever you need it.
✓
You’ll also be connected with services that support housing, health and community engagement. This level of support ensures you can focus on your course, complete your assessments confidently and make steady progress through the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care as you build your future in Australia.
Course Details
Delivery Mode
The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care will be delivered as classroom-based, face-to-face training.
Delivery Location
Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Course Duration
This course will be delivered over 54 weeks as follows:
- Classroom Delivery: 37 Weeks
- Practical Placement: 8 Weeks
- Holidays: 9 Weeks
Duration - 54 Weeks
Course Fee - $14,500
Course Fee
- Total Tuition Fees: $14,500.00
- Admission Fee: $250.00
- Material Fee: $750.00
Payment Plan
- Non-refundable enrolment deposit (prior to commencement) – $250
- 4 equal instalments of tuition fee before the start of every term
Additional charges apply if students require
- Additional copies of a student’s qualification/record of results and/or statement of attainment. A cost of $50 per document applies, and $70 if express post is required.
- Printing costs may be required to complete assessments. Students may print and copy on campus for a cost of 15c per page; however, they may also use other printing facilities.
- If you’re looking for a trusted option for the Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne, WMIT is here to support your journey every step of the way.
RPL Costs
- Application Fee – $250
- Charge per unit of competency – $400
- Nationally Recognised Training does not incur GST.
- Students will only be eligible to receive their qualification if fees have been paid in full and all course requirements have been met.
- *Please refer to your Student Handbook for our Fees and Refunds Policy.
Other costs (not included) to be aware of
- Please refer to the student handbook for guidance in relation to budgeting and planning.
- USB drives that students are required to use to submit their assessments. Students may bring their own or purchase nearby.
- Notebooks/pens/laptops* or other general stationery required for students to complete their work.
- *A note about computers: Many homework and assessment tasks require access to a computer and the internet; therefore, it is recommended that students bring or purchase a laptop if possible.
Inclusions
- Unless otherwise specified, tuition fees include all training and assessment as well as required resources and textbooks necessary for students to achieve the qualification or course in which they are enrolling.
- If students don’t have their own, they can use nearby public facilities, which are listed in the Student Handbook for their convenience. It is optional for students to bring a laptop to class; some students may choose to do so to keep their notes organised, but where a computer is required for class activities, the trainer/assessor will arrange to book the college computers for class sessions.
Take the Next Step with WMIT
- If you’re ready to start your career in early childhood education, this qualification gives you the foundation you need to work confidently in real early learning environments.
- By studying the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, you’ll build the practical skills and professional knowledge employers look for across Melbourne’s childcare sector. Whether you're planning to grow within the industry or progress to further study, this course opens doors to a wide range of rewarding opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions –
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Everything you need to know about studying childcare in Melbourne at WMIT — entry requirements, fees, work placement, and career pathways.
1What is the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care?
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally recognised Australian vocational qualification that prepares you to work as an educator supporting children's wellbeing, development, and learning in regulated childcare services. It is the minimum qualification required by law to work independently in an Australian childcare centre, as mandated by ACECQA (the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority).
At WMIT (West Melbourne Institute of Technology), this course is CRICOS-registered under code 114143D, making it fully approved for international students studying on a Student Visa. The qualification is also commonly referred to as a Certificate 3 in childcare, a childcare course Melbourne, or an early childhood education course in Melbourne.
2What are the entry requirements for the childcare course at WMIT Melbourne?
WMIT's entry requirements for the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care are:
- Be 18 years or older at commencement
- Hold a Certificate III in EAL or an Academic IELTS band score of 6.0 (or equivalent English language qualification)
- Completion of the equivalent of Australian Year 11 from an English-speaking country, OR completion of an Australian AQF Certificate III or higher qualification
- Demonstrate basic computer skills (ability to use Microsoft Word and conduct internet research)
All students must also complete an LLN (Language, Literacy and Numeracy) assessment at orientation. International students must hold a valid Australian Student Visa and meet all Department of Home Affairs immigration requirements.
3How long is the Certificate III in Childcare at WMIT and how is it delivered?
The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT has a total duration of 54 weeks, structured as follows:
- 37 weeks of face-to-face classroom delivery (20 hours per week)
- 8 weeks of supervised work placement in a regulated Australian childcare centre
- 9 weeks of scheduled holidays
The course is delivered as classroom-based, face-to-face training at WMIT's campus at Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000 — in the heart of the Melbourne CBD, walking distance from Flinders Street Station. International students must attend all scheduled classes to comply with Student Visa attendance conditions.
4What is the work placement requirement for this childcare course in Melbourne?
Work placement is a mandatory component of the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Students must complete a minimum of 160 hours of supervised work placement in a regulated Australian Children's Education and Care (ECEC) services centre.
WMIT coordinates the placement process by partnering with approved childcare centres across Melbourne that have entered into a formal placement agreement with the college. A WMIT trainer/assessor will conduct mandatory site visits to observe and assess your practical competency during placement. You will also be provided with a Skills Workbook containing assessment tasks to complete during this time.
This real-world experience ensures you graduate as a job-ready early childhood educator with genuine practical skills valued by Melbourne employers.
5How much does the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care cost at WMIT?
The full fee breakdown for the Certificate III in Childcare at WMIT Melbourne is:
- Total Tuition Fee: $14,500.00
- Admission (Enrolment) Fee: $250.00 (non-refundable, payable before commencement)
- Material Fee: $750.00
Tuition is paid in 4 equal instalments before the start of each term. The tuition fee includes all training, assessment, required resources, and textbooks. Additional minor costs such as USB drives, printing (15c/page on campus), and document copies ($50 per document) may also apply.
For RPL applicants, an Application Fee of $250 plus $400 per unit of competency applies. Please refer to the Student Handbook for the full Fees and Refunds Policy.
6Is the WMIT childcare course suitable for international students in Melbourne?
Yes — the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT is fully CRICOS registered (Code: 114143D), which means it is approved for international students studying in Australia on a Student Visa. WMIT (RTO 45639 · CRICOS 03874C) is a registered training organisation in Melbourne with dedicated international student support services.
As an international student enrolled in this childcare course in Melbourne, you will receive:
- Orientation support and an LLN assessment to identify your learning needs
- Academic mentoring, workshops, and additional tutorials where needed
- Guidance on housing, health insurance, and community engagement services
- Computer and technology support on campus
To find out more or to begin your application, email info@wmit.edu.au, call +61 3 9131 8789, or apply directly at admissions.wmit.edu.au.
7What jobs can I get after completing the Certificate III in Childcare in Melbourne?
Graduates of the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care are qualified to work across a wide range of settings in Victoria and nationally, including roles such as:
- Early Childhood Educator — in long-day care centres and early learning programmes
- Family Day Care Educator — providing care in a home-based setting
- Playgroup Supervisor — facilitating structured play and learning activities
- Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Worker — before/after school and vacation care
Australia's childcare sector is experiencing strong, sustained growth. According to the Victorian Skills Authority, over 2,700 additional childcare workers were required in Victoria by 2025, with national demand continuing to rise. The federal government has committed over $1 billion to expand early education infrastructure, cementing long-term employment prospects for qualified educators across Melbourne and beyond.
8Does completing the Certificate III in Childcare lead to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia?
The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is an entry-level qualification and does not itself directly lead to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia. However, it is an important stepping stone on a clear PR pathway for many international students:
- After completing the Cert III, students can progress to the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT
- The Diploma unlocks roles at a higher qualification level, including Room Leader and Centre Director positions
- Early Childhood Teachers and qualified educators are listed on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them eligible for skilled migration visas including subclass 189, 190, and 491
- Employer-sponsored pathways (subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) are also available once you hold a relevant qualification and work experience
We strongly recommend consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice on your PR pathway. For course enquiries, contact WMIT at info@wmit.edu.au or call +61 3 9131 8789.
9What is the difference between the Certificate III and the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?
Both qualifications are nationally recognised and CRICOS-approved at WMIT, but they differ in scope, career outcomes, and responsibilities:
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) — Entry-level qualification. Prepares you to work as an Assistant Educator or support worker under the guidance of a senior educator. It is the minimum required qualification to work in a regulated childcare service in Australia.
- Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care — Advanced qualification. Allows you to work as a Lead Educator or Room Leader, lead a team, develop educational programs independently using an approved learning framework, and take on greater responsibility within a centre.
WMIT offers both qualifications, and students who complete the Certificate 3 in childcare may progress directly to the Diploma with credit recognition for units already completed. This pathway from Cert III to Diploma is one of the most efficient routes to advancing your career and improving your eligibility for Australian visa pathways.
10Does WMIT offer RPL for the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care?
Yes. WMIT offers Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. RPL allows students who have existing skills, knowledge, or experience in childcare, child development, or related fields to have those competencies formally assessed — potentially shortening their course duration and reducing costs.
RPL is assessed on a per-unit basis at a cost of $400 per unit of competency, plus a $250 application fee. RPL applications should ideally be submitted at enrolment, but can be lodged up to 2 weeks into the course. A WMIT trainer/assessor will guide you through the process and help identify relevant evidence from your work history and previous training.
Please refer to the WMIT Student Handbook for full RPL and Fees and Refunds Policy details.