CHC33021

Certificate III in Individual Support

Why complete a Certificate III in Individual Support?

Open the door to more job opportunities

Secure stable, long-term work

Kickstart a fulfilling career in Disability or Aged Care

Make a real difference with meaningful work

Use government funding to reduce your fees

Perfect for

Mothers

Mums returning to work or looking for a career change.

School leavers

New graduates looking to start a meaningful career in disability or aged care.

New migrants

Recently migrated and looking to enter the workforce.

Course Overview

AQF level

Certificate III

Course duration

6 to 12 months

Delivery method

Classroom or online

Fees & funding

Government-funded or from $42.89 per week

Why choose Breakthru College?

Train with the experts

We’re part of the Royal Rehab Group, a not-for-profit that works every day in the health and disability space. So, when we teach, it’s based on real experience – not just theory. Our goal is simple: to help you build a rewarding career in care and support. With us, it’s not just about getting a qualification – it’s about learning the skills that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Industry Insights

Awarded for excellence

Breakthru College stands out as one of the few training providers officially recognised by the Department of Education as a High-Performing Provider.

This means we consistently deliver exceptional training outcomes, strong student support, and real-world job readiness. When you study with us, you’re choosing a provider with a proven record of success.

Industry Insights

Known for experienced trainers

Our trainers are more than just educators—they’re experienced professionals who’ve worked in the field. They bring real-life insights, practical examples, and genuine passion to every class.

You won’t just learn the theory; you’ll gain practical knowledge that prepares you for the real world. Plus, they’re approachable and invested in your success from day one.

Industry Insights

Recognised for student success

At Breakthru College, we know that everyone learns differently. That’s why we tailor our approach to suit your learning style and pace, with one-on-one support whenever you need it.

Struggling with online learning or tech? We’ve got you covered. Our support team is here to help you stay focused, connected, and confident—every step of the way.

Industry Insights

Loved by students

Students choose Breakthru College not just for the qualifications, but for the supportive, inclusive, and welcoming environment we’re known for.

We treat every student as an individual, and create a space where you can feel comfortable, motivated, and empowered. Many of our students return for further study or recommend us to friends—and that says everything.

What you will gain 

A nationally recognised qualification and the skills needed for a rewarding career in disability or aged care.

  • Support clients in maintaining their independence
  • Assist with personal care and daily activities
  • Help with safe transport and mobility
  • Guide clients and families through support services like the NDIS
  • Provide emotional and social support
  • Build trusting relationships with clients and their support networks

Students who complete this course may wish to continue to the Certificate IV in Disability Support, Certificate IV in Mental Health, or many other qualifications.

Learning made affordable

Skills Assure Logo

Queensland (QLD)

If you qualify for Government funding: Your total cost could be as low as $45

If you do not qualify for Government funding: Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

Online course fee: $2,430
Face-to-face course fee: $4,050

NSW Government Logo

New South Wales (NSW)

Students who qualify for Government funding: There are fee-free and subsidised places available, depending on your individual circumstances.

Students who do not qualify for Government funding: Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

Online course fee: $2,430
Face-to-face course fee: $4,050

Career Opportunities

Gain the skills and confidence to launch or advance your career in the mental health, disability, or aged care sectors. The Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021) course opens doors to meaningful roles where you can make a real difference every day. Potential Career pathways include:

Disability Support Worker

Disability Support Worker

Disability Support Workers provide general everyday assistance, emotional support and care for aged and disabled persons at home or in the community.

 

Average salary

$31.73 – $45.89/hr ($62,712 – $90,688p.a.)

Personal Care Assistant

Personal Care Assistant

Personal Care Assistants provide routine personal care services to people in a range of health care facilities or in a person’s home.

 

Average salary

$31.73 – $45.89/hr ($62,712 – $90,688p.a.)

Residential Care Officer

Residential Care Officer

Residential Care Officers provide care and supervision for children or people with disability in group housing or institutional care.

 

Average salary

$35.05 – $45.89/hr ($69,264 – $89,492p.a.)

Award-winning excellence

Recognised for our award-winning learning experience

In 2024, Breakthru College was honoured as Queensland’s Training Initiative of the Year for our Certificate III in Individual Support. We also received the NSW Trainer Excellence Award, recognising our dedication to quality education.

By studying with Breakthru College, you’ll gain access to our team of highly reputable and award-winning trainers just like Gil, who received the prestigious Ken Downie Award as part of the NSW Training Awards ceremony.

Certificate III in Individual Support
Leigh Brown - Graduate & Support Worker
Open Quote

The support and resources at Breakthru College were incredible, second only to my teacher Ann. She is such a wealth of knowledge and always made herself available whenever I needed help. I now feel extremely fulfilled working in the industry and couldn’t be happier with my decision to study with Breakthru College.

Leigh Brown, Townsville Graduate & Support Worker

Close Quote

Course Locations

Cert 3 Individual Support Online

Online

Ideal for those with a busy schedule, our online classes are tailored to suit your needs, allowing you to study and enhance your skills while making time for the important things.

Cert 3 Individual Support Townsville

Townsville

Located in the heart of North Queensland, our Townsville classes offer a supportive, local learning environment where you can build your skills close to home.

Sydney South West Certificate III Individual Support

Sydney South West

Perfect for those in Western Sydney, our South-West classes provides hands-on training with experienced local trainers, helping you balance study with your everyday commitments.

Cert 3 Individual Support Brisbane

Brisbane South

Set in a vibrant city of Brisbane, our Brisbane South classes are designed for flexibility—empowering you to upskill, stay connected locally, and get job-ready.

Cert 3 Individual Support Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast

Enjoy learning in a relaxed coastal setting with our Sunshine Coast classes. It’s ideal for locals wanting practical training and real-world experience while enjoying the benefits of staying close to home.

Certificate III in Individual Support Newcastle

Newcastle

Our Newcastle classes combine quality face-to-face learning with the convenience of being local. Build new skills, connect with industry trainers, and work toward your goals in a welcoming setting.

Subjects and units​

There are fifteen (15) units of competency to complete for the Certificate III in Individual Support qualification, comprising of eleven (11) core units and four (4) elective units. A work placement of 120 hours is also required.

Code Title Core or Elective
HLTINF006 Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control Core
HLTWHS002 Follow safe work practices for direct client care Core
CHCCCS040 Support independence and wellbeing Core
CHCCCS038 Facilitate the empowerment of people receiving support Core
CHCCCS031 Provide individualised support Core
CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically Core
CHCCCS041 Recognise healthy body systems Core
CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community services Core
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people Core
All electives below must be selected for award of the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).

Code Title Core or Elective
CHCDIS011 Contribute to ongoing skills development using a strengths-based approach Elective
CHCDIS020 Work effectively in disability support Elective
CHCDIS012 Support community participation and social inclusion Elective
CHCCCS036 Support relationships with carers and families Elective
CHCCCS033 Identify and report abuse Elective
CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues Elective

All the electives below must be selected for award of the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing).

Code Title Core or Elective
CHCAGE011 Provide support for people living with dementia Elective
CHCAGE013 Work effectively in aged care Elective
CHCPAL003 Deliver care services using a palliative approach Elective
CHCCCS033 Identify and report abuse Elective
CHCCCS036 Support relationships with carer and family Elective
CHCAGE007 Recognise and report risk of falls Elective

Enquire now

If you’d like more information prior to enrolling, please get in touch using the form below.

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Entry requirements

Australian residents may be eligible to have their Certificate III in Individual Support course fees subsidised using State Government funding schemes like Skills Assure (QLD).

Language, literacy and numeracy

You must demonstrate that you have the required level of Language, Literacy and Numeracy skills necessary to complete this course by undertaking a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment.

Physical requirements

Learners will need to have a reasonable level of fitness as the role may involve a variety of physical tasks such as providing personal care, assisting clients with mobility and supporting clients with transfers. Learners may also be required to stand or walk for long periods of time.

Resource requirements

To effectively participate in their studies, all online learners are required to have their own laptop / tablet installed with Microsoft Office or similar. Learners are also required to have access to a stable internet connection and a computer / laptop / tablet to participate in an online LLN assessment.

Breakthru College also has an option to provide physical copies of learning and assessment resources for face to face students.

Delivery and assessment

Breakthru College will use the following delivery and assessment methods.

Delivery methods

  • Face to face / virtual classroom (theory and practical sessions) – includes classroom-based delivery for knowledge and practical teaching in a simulated environment
  • Self-paced study (structured and mandatory) – students are required to undertake self-study to complete a range of structured activities such as reading, research, completing case studies, and quizzes to reinforce their learning.

Assessment methods

  • Oral or Written Questions
  • Observation / Demonstration / Role-play
  • Report
  • Portfolio of Evidence
  • Case Study
  • Research
  • Journal / Log
  • Third Party Report

You will be required to complete a range of activities throughout the course depending on the requirements of each unit of competency. You will also be provided with the assessment and delivery plan at the commencement of your course which outlines the topics to be covered, duration, resources and due dates.

Study expectations

You are expected to allocate a minimum of 27 to 33 hours per week to undertake this qualification. This includes training, self-paced study, supervised and non-supervised assessment activities, and work placement requirements.

If you are an existing worker in the industry, you may with permission use your workplace for your work placement hours and assessment.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly can I complete my qualification?

It takes between 6 – 12 months to complete most of our accredited qualifications. This depends on your ability to study the appropriate modules and complete your assessments.

All accredited qualifications also require 80 – 120 hours of work placement to be completed prior to graduation, which may take some time for students to complete.

Are there any fees payable if I withdraw from my course?

You will not be charged any fees if you wish to withdraw your enrolment.

If you have previously withdrawn from one of our courses and wish to re-enrol, a $350 administration fee may be applied.

How quickly can I commence my studies?

Once all of your enrolment information has been received, we generally process your enrolment and provide initial access to learning materials within 1 – 2 business days.

Can I use my work experience as evidence of prior learning?

Yes, students may use their work experience as evidence of prior learning.

To do this, students must first enrol in a qualification and complete the RPL Application Form attached to their Learner Handbook.

Note there is a $250 administration fee applied for each RPL unit.

How can I check my eligibility for Government funding?

If you reside in Queensland, you can visit the Queensland Government website to check your eligibility: https://www.qld.gov.au/education/training/subsidies/check-your-eligibility

If you’re still unsure or would like some assistance, please get in touch and we can help assess your eligibility.

Qualifications you might also like

Certificate IV in Disability

Certificate IV in Disability

The Certificate IV in Disability reflects roles where workers empower individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and wellbeing. This course can be delivered either in a classroom or online.

Certificate Ageing Support

Certificate IV in Ageing

This course has been created to reflect the real life roles of support workers in their roles in aged services. You will need to find and complete work placement for this qualification of at least 120 hours.

Certificate III in Individual Support

Certificate IV in Mental Health

This qualification reflects the role of workers in community services that offer person-centred support. 6 to 12 months of work placement is required.

Start building your future today!

Enrol now with Breakthru College and empower yourself to create a lasting impact in the lives of others while securing a rewarding and meaningful career in mental health.

Enrol nowEnquire
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