Question 1

What is CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support?

Accepted Answer

CHC43015 is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares you for specialist support worker roles in aged care. You'll learn to coordinate services, support people with dementia, facilitate care planning, and work across residential, home, and community aged care settings. The qualification takes 18-24 months and includes 120 hours of practical work placement.

Question 2

How much does CHC43015 cost in 2025?

Accepted Answer

For domestic students: Free through government subsidies (Fee-Free 2025 in NSW/WA, Free TAFE in VIC, JobTrainer in QLD) or $1,599-$5,000 at private RTOs. International students pay $10,000-$12,500. Hidden costs include police check ($42-$87), first aid certificate ($120-$180), and materials ($200-$400), bringing total cost to $442-$13,500 depending on circumstances.

Question 3

Is Certificate IV Ageing Support worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you're committed to aged care as a career. Certificate IV graduates earn $55,000-$68,000 annually (higher than Certificate III workers at $50,000-$58,000). Employment rate is 72% within 6 months of graduation. However, consider the 18-24 month time commitment and ensure you're suited to physical and emotional demands of aged care work before enrolling.

Question 4

How long does CHC43015 take to complete?

Accepted Answer

Typical completion time is 18-24 months for full-time study (20-30 hours per week) or 24-30 months for part-time study (10-15 hours per week). This includes 120 hours of mandatory work placement in a regulated aged care facility. Fast-track options claiming "4-8 week completion" are impossible and likely fraudulent.

Question 5

Can I study CHC43015 online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many RTOs offer online or blended delivery. However, you must complete 120 hours of supervised work placement in a physical aged care facility - this cannot be done online. Online study suits self-paced learners but requires strong time management skills.

Question 6

Do I need experience to enroll in CHC43015?

Accepted Answer

No formal prerequisites or prior experience required. However, having Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) provides a strong foundation and may reduce study time. Many students work as personal care assistants while studying Certificate IV.

Question 7

What jobs can I get with CHC43015?

Accepted Answer

Certificate IV graduates work as: Aged Care Worker (Senior/Specialist), Residential Care Coordinator, Community Aged Care Coordinator, Dementia Support Worker, Palliative Care Support Worker, Senior Personal Care Assistant, or Service Planning Coordinator. Typical salary range: $55,000-$68,000 annually.

Question 8

What's the difference between Certificate III and Certificate IV in aged care?

Accepted Answer

Certificate III (CHC33021) prepares you for entry-level personal care roles. Certificate IV (CHC43015) is for specialist and coordination roles with higher responsibility. Certificate IV includes advanced units in dementia care, palliative care, service coordination, and legal compliance. Certificate IV graduates earn $5,000-$10,000 more annually.

Question 9

Do I need a police check or NDIS worker screening?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you need either a National Police Check (not older than 3 years) OR NDIS Worker Screening Check to work in aged care. From mid-2026, a new unified Aged Care Worker Screening Check will replace current state-based systems. Cost: $42-$120 depending on state and screening type. Processing time: 6-8 weeks.

Question 10

Are aged care workers in demand?

Accepted Answer

Yes, high demand. Jobs and Skills Australia projects 17,000+ new aged care positions annually through 2027. Australia's aging population (21% over 65 by 2030) drives strong employment growth. Certificate IV graduates have 72% employment rate within 6 months.

Question 11

Can I work in aged care without a qualification?

Accepted Answer

Limited roles available without qualifications (e.g., hospitality, administration). Direct care roles require minimum Certificate III in Individual Support. Certificate IV opens senior and specialist positions. Unqualified workers cannot provide personal care or clinical support.

Question 12

What are the physical requirements for aged care work?

Accepted Answer

Aged care work is physically demanding: lifting/transferring residents (manual handling), standing/walking for extended periods, bending/kneeling, and assisting with personal care. You must be able to perform these tasks safely. Pre-employment health assessments may be required by employers.

Question 13

How do I choose a good RTO for CHC43015?

Accepted Answer

Check: (1) ASQA registration status (active, no sanctions), (2) Transparent pricing and refund policy, (3) Established work placement partnerships, (4) Positive student reviews (>3.5 stars), (5) Experienced trainers with aged care industry background. Avoid RTOs with "guaranteed job" claims or "4-week completion" promises.

Question 14

What is the 120-hour work placement requirement?

Accepted Answer

All CHC43015 students must complete 120 hours of supervised practical placement in a regulated aged care facility (residential, home care, or community). Placement must be supervised by a qualified aged care professional. RTOs arrange placements, but availability varies - confirm placement support before enrolling.

Question 15

Can I get government funding for CHC43015?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if eligible. NSW/WA: Fee-Free 2025 (free tuition). VIC: Free TAFE (free tuition). QLD: JobTrainer (free or low-cost). Other states: VET Student Loans available (loan, not grant). Eligibility varies by state, age, employment status, and prior qualifications. Check with RTOs for specific eligibility.

CHC43015 Answered - Your Questions

Getting Started

Is It Worth It?

Licensing & Requirements

CHC43015 Answered - Your Questions

Getting Started

Is It Worth It?

Licensing & Requirements