Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne
CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Course CRICOS Code: 114144C | RTO No: 45639Course Overview
The CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne at WMIT is a nationally recognised AQF Level 5 qualification that prepares you for leadership roles in regulated early childhood education and care services across Australia. CRICOS-registered under code 114144C and delivered face-to-face at WMIT’s Melbourne CBD campus, this childcare diploma in Melbourne is fully approved for international students studying on an Australian Student Visa. It is the direct progression from the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care — also offered at WMIT — giving students a seamless, supported pathway from entry-level educator to qualified lead professional within the same institution.
This Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne reflects the role of early childhood educators who are responsible for designing and implementing curriculum in regulated education and care services. Graduates work under the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) — Australia’s approved learning framework for children from birth to five years — within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standards (NQS). These are the exact standards set by ACECQA (Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority) — the national body that governs childcare qualifications across Australia.
Students in this diploma of childcare course in Melbourne develop advanced competencies across curriculum design, child development theory, family and community engagement, team leadership, and reflective practice. A mandatory 280-hour supervised work placement in a regulated Australian childcare centre is embedded across the programme, ensuring graduates enter the workforce with genuine, employer-ready practical experience. WMIT coordinates placement in approved Melbourne childcare centres, with WMIT trainer/assessors conducting formal site visits throughout the placement period.
The CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne opens doors to a range of leadership roles in Melbourne’s rapidly growing childcare sector — including Room Leader, Lead Educator, Educational Leader, and Nominated Supervisor. These positions carry significantly higher earning potential than Certificate III-level roles, with higher salaries in Melbourne depending on the role and centre type. Early childhood educators also hold one of Australia’s most accessible Permanent Residency (PR) pathways — with Early Childhood Teachers and qualified educators listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), supporting eligibility for skilled migration visas including subclasses 189, 190, and 491.
Program Overview
Entry Requirements
- Academic Requirements:
- Holds a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care OR CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
- Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent.
- IELTS (Academic) band score 6.0 or equivalent score in other English tests, including PTE, TOEFL and CAE.
- 18 years or older at commencement of course.
New to childcare? Start with the Certificate III
WMIT also offers the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care — the minimum required qualification to work in Australian childcare and the direct entry pathway to this Diploma. Complete both at WMIT with credit recognition between qualifications.
- 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 CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care you can apply for jobs which may include:
- Centre manager (children’s services)
- Program leader (children’s services)
- Children’s services coordinator
- Group/team coordinator/leader (children’s services)
- Early Childhood educator
- The further study pathways available to students who undertake this qualification include:
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education OR
- Equivalent Qualification
To attain the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, 15 units must be achieved, consisting of 12 core and 3 elective units listed below:
Course Credit
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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.
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*Please refer to your Student Handbook for more information on Course Credit.
International students should be aware that if credit is granted, the course duration will be adjusted and confirmation will be provided 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, 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. International students should be aware that if RPL is granted, the course duration will be adjusted and confirmation will be provided in writing.
Why Choose WMIT?
Strong Reputation in Vocational Education
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West Melbourne Institute of Technology has established itself as a trusted provider of nationally recognised qualifications in high-demand sectors. For students pursuing the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, this reputation offers confidence that the training meets Australian standards and employer expectations. Graduates benefit from studying with an institute known for its consistency, compliance and professionalism.
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The teaching staff brings practical experience from early childhood services, not just theoretical knowledge. This means students are guided by trainers who understand the realities of working in long day care settings, kindergarten and community-based centres. Their insight helps learners apply course concepts to workplace environments with confidence.
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The campus is based in a well-connected part of the city, making attendance straightforward for those living locally or arriving from overseas. Students undertaking a diploma in early childhood education have access to classrooms, resources and support services within walking distance of public transport. This setting also places them close to a range of regulated early childhood centres for work placement opportunities.
Training & Placement Arrangements
Training Arrangements
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Class sessions are planned to ensure that students have a mixture of practical and theoretical components and those classes cater to 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.
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WMIT organises face-to-face training of 20 hours per week; all international students must attend the classes to comply with student visa conditions.
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Homework tasks may include research, readings from related textbooks and continuing to work on assessment tasks.
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Students are provided with Learner Guides for each unit to support their learning (these are included in the course fees).
Placement Arrangements
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Work Placement is an important component of the qualification that provides students with the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge in an early childhood education and care setting. Students are required to complete a minimum of 280 hours of work placement in a regulated Children’s Education and Care Services Centre in Australia for successful completion of the course.
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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 a Skills Workbook containing assessment tasks and activities to be completed during work placement and the students will need to complete the workplace tasks.
The WMIT trainer/assessor will visit and observe students in the workplace to determine the students’ competency in the practical component of the course.
The WMIT trainer/assessor will also 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. All students will be provided with a range of learning support options and resources to help them 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:
Course Details
Delivery Mode
This course 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 60 weeks as follows:
- Course Delivery: 50 Weeks (including 14 weeks of practical placement)
- Holidays: 10 Weeks
AQF Level - V
Duration - 60 Weeks
Course Fee - $15,750
Course Fee
- Total Tuition Fees: $15,000.00
- Admission Fee: $250.00
- Material Fee: $500.00
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: $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.
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.
Enquire About This Course
- If you need more certainty before lodging an application, our admissions staff is available to help. We can answer questions about eligibility, study duration or upcoming start dates so you can assess how the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care fits your goals.
- Prepared to move ahead? Apply now to secure your slot.
Frequently Asked Questions –
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne
Your questions answered — entry requirements, work placement, career outcomes, PR pathways, fees, and the difference between the Cert III and Diploma at WMIT.
1 What is the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?
The CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally recognised AQF Level 5 qualification that reflects the role of early childhood educators responsible for designing and implementing curriculum in regulated education and care services. It is the advanced qualification above the Certificate III and is required for lead educator, room leader, and nominated supervisor roles in Australian childcare centres.
At WMIT (West Melbourne Institute of Technology), this childcare diploma in Melbourne is CRICOS-registered under code 114144C, making it fully approved for international students on an Australian Student Visa. It is delivered face-to-face at WMIT's campus at Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000 — in the heart of the Melbourne CBD.
2 What are the entry requirements for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT?
WMIT's entry requirements for the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne are:
- Completion of CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or the equivalent CHC30113 qualification
- IELTS Academic band score of 6.0 or equivalent (PTE, TOEFL, CAE), OR a Certificate III in EAL
- Be 18 years or older at commencement
- Basic computer literacy — Microsoft Word and internet research
All students complete an LLN (Language, Literacy and Numeracy) assessment at orientation. WMIT also offers the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care — meaning students can complete the full Cert III → Diploma pathway at the same Melbourne campus with credit recognition between qualifications.
3 How long is the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT and how is it delivered?
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne at WMIT is delivered over 60 weeks total, structured as:
- Classroom delivery: Face-to-face training at 20 hours per week at Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne CBD
- Work placement: A minimum of 280 supervised hours in a regulated Australian childcare centre, coordinated by WMIT
- Scheduled holidays: Included across the 60-week period
International students must attend all scheduled classes to comply with Student Visa attendance conditions. WMIT trainer/assessors conduct mandatory site visits during work placement to formally assess practical competency. All Learner Guides are included in course fees.
4 What jobs can I get after completing the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne?
The CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care qualifies graduates for advanced leadership roles in regulated childcare settings across Melbourne and Australia, including:
- Room Leader / Lead Educator — leading a room of children, designing curriculum, and supervising assistant educators (salary: $58,000–$70,000)
- Educational Leader — mentoring educators, leading professional development, and shaping curriculum direction across a service (salary: $65,000–$78,000)
- Nominated Supervisor — managing daily operations and maintaining regulatory compliance under the Education and Care Services National Regulations (salary: $60,000–$75,000)
- Centre Director — overseeing all operations of a childcare centre including staff, budget, and ACECQA quality rating (salary: $70,000–$85,000)
- OSHC Coordinator — planning and implementing programs in outside school hours care settings
These roles represent a significant career and salary advancement over Certificate III-level positions and are in sustained demand across Melbourne's growing childcare sector.
5 Does the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care lead to Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia?
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a strong step on one of Australia's clearest PR pathways for international students. Here is how the pathway works:
- Early Childhood Educators and Teachers are listed on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) — making them eligible for skilled independent migration
- Diploma holders working in childcare can progress toward subclass 189 (Independent), 190 (State Nominated), or 491 (Regional) skilled visas after gaining relevant work experience
- Employer-sponsored pathways via the subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa are also available for qualified diploma graduates with Australian childcare work experience
- After completing the Diploma, students can further progress to a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education to strengthen their PR points score and occupational eligibility
We strongly recommend consulting a registered MARA migration agent for personalised PR pathway advice. For course enquiries, contact WMIT at info@wmit.edu.au or +61 3 9131 8789.
6 What is the difference between the Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?
Both qualifications are CRICOS-registered and offered at WMIT's Melbourne CBD campus. Here is how they differ:
- CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (AQF Level 3) — Entry-level qualification. The minimum required by law to work independently in an Australian childcare centre. Prepares you to work as an Assistant Educator supporting children's wellbeing under senior educator guidance. 54 weeks, 160-hour placement.
- CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (AQF Level 5) — Advanced qualification. Enables you to design and implement curriculum, lead a room, supervise staff, and work as a Room Leader, Educational Leader, or Nominated Supervisor. 60 weeks, 280-hour placement.
Students who complete the Certificate III at WMIT can progress directly to this Diploma at WMIT with credit recognition — making WMIT the most efficient Cert III to Diploma childcare pathway in Melbourne CBD for international students.
7 What is the EYLF and why is it important for this childcare diploma?
The EYLF (Early Years Learning Framework) — formally titled Belonging, Being and Becoming — is Australia's approved national curriculum framework for early childhood education for children from birth to five years. It is mandated under the Education and Care Services National Regulations and forms the foundation of all curriculum planning in regulated Australian childcare centres.
The National Quality Standards (NQS) is the assessment and rating system used by ACECQA to evaluate the quality of childcare services across seven quality areas, including educational programme, children's health and safety, staffing, and relationships with families and communities.
In the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT, students develop the skills to plan, implement, and evaluate curriculum using the EYLF and to ensure their service meets the NQS — the two most critical practical competencies employers look for in lead educators and room leaders across Melbourne.
8 How much does the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care cost at WMIT?
The complete fee breakdown for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne at WMIT is:
- Total Tuition Fee: $15,000.00
- Admission (Enrolment) Fee: $250.00 (non-refundable, payable before commencement)
- Material Fee: $500.00
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 document copies ($50 per document), printing (15c/page on campus), and USB drives may also apply. For RPL applicants: Application Fee $250 plus $400 per unit of competency. Nationally Recognised Training does not incur GST. Please refer to the WMIT Student Handbook for the full Fees and Refunds Policy.
9 Is the WMIT childcare diploma suitable for international students in Melbourne?
Yes. The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at WMIT is fully CRICOS-registered (Code: 114144C), approved for international students studying on an Australian Student Visa. WMIT (RTO 45639 · CRICOS 03874C) provides comprehensive student support throughout the course including:
- LLN assessment and Individual Support Plan at orientation
- Mentoring from trainers with direct early childhood industry experience
- Additional tutorials, workshops, and computer support
- Coordination of work placement in approved Melbourne childcare centres
- Referral to external housing, health, and community support services
To enquire or apply, email info@wmit.edu.au, call +61 3 9131 8789, or apply at admissions.wmit.edu.au.
10 Does WMIT offer RPL for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?
Yes. WMIT offers Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Students with existing skills, knowledge, or experience in childcare, child development, education, or related care fields can apply to have those competencies formally assessed — potentially reducing course duration and cost.
RPL is assessed on a per-unit basis at $400 per unit of competency, plus a $250 application fee. Applications should ideally be submitted at enrolment but may be lodged up to 2 weeks into the course. A WMIT trainer/assessor will guide you through the evidence identification process. Please refer to the WMIT Student Handbook for the full RPL policy. International students should be aware that if RPL is granted, course duration will be adjusted and confirmed in writing.
Continue Your Early Childhood Education Journey
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
The minimum qualification required to work in Australian childcare. 54 weeks, 160-hour placement. CRICOS 114143D. The direct entry pathway to this Diploma.
View CHC30121 →Explore All Courses at West Melbourne Institute of Technology
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