CHC33021
Certificate III Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Launch a fulfilling career in supporting older Australians and people with disability in care and community facilities.
CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Lead with empathy. Work with purpose.
If you want to make a positive difference in people’s lives, Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) provides the perfect foundation for a rewarding career working in aged care and disability. This nationally accredited course provides the hands-on skills and empathetic mindset you need to deliver person-centred support to older people and those living with a disability.
With a balance of flexible online learning and practical vocational placement, you will develop the knowledge and practical experience to provide quality care in residential aged care facilities, home-based support services, and community care environments. You’ll master the skills to assist with everyday living activities, including mobility, hygiene, and nutrition, as well as support emotional well-being and social inclusion.
Important areas of learning are facilitating individual health and wellbeing, care for people with dementia or complex needs, following individualised care planning, and ensuring legal, ethical, and safe practice. Effective communication with clients and families, identifying and responding to changing needs, and respectful work with diverse cultural backgrounds and communities are also included in the course.
Upon completion of this qualification, you’ll be job-ready and eligible for roles such as Aged Care Worker, Disability Support Worker, Personal Care Assistant, Community Support Worker, or NDIS Support Worker. With Australia’s ageing population and the continued growth of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), demand for skilled care professionals is strong and steadily increasing.
Whether you are beginning your career, re-entering the workforce, or looking for a fulfilling career change, the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) is a flexible, supportive entry into a secure and rewarding industry where you can really make a difference.
Course snapshot
CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
This nationally recognised qualification prepares students to provide person-centred care to people in aged care, disability, and community support settings.
Theoretical Elements:
Study the theory components online at your own pace through our easy-to-use learning platform. Content is interactive, flexible, and designed to suit your schedule—making it ideal for students balancing work or family commitments.
Practical Elements:
To meet the vocational requirements of the course, students must complete 120 hours of mandatory practical placement in an approved aged care, disability support, or community care facility.
Students will be guided in securing placement and must obtain a National Police Check and NDIS Worker Screening Check before commencement. Oxford College may assist students in identifying suitable placement opportunities where required.
Find out more about the course delivery structure.
Complete the course in up to 12 months, depending on your individual pace and schedule.
- 15 units in total: 9 core and 6 electives (including specialisations in both ageing and disability)
- 120 hours of vocational placement
- Study online and progress through one unit at a time—designed for flexible completion
Course Outcomes
The practical experience and skills you learn under the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) will equip you with the capabilities needed to work in many rewarding positions in aged care, disability support, and community services. Following is a small sample of the career outcomes you can pursue after your course.
Aged Care Worker
Disability Support Worker
Personal Care Assistant (PCA)
Community Care Worker
Residential Support Worker
NDIS Support Worker
Delivery Structure
This qualification is presented in an accommodating and flexible blended learning approach, integrating self-paced online learning with scheduled workplace training. This delivery method enables students to manage study around personal and work commitments, and acquire the actual care skills in genuine care environments.
Theoretical Learning
Study the theory component of the course from the comfort of your home, at a time that suits you. Our online platform provides interactive content, digital resources, and access to trainer support throughout your learning journey.
Components include:
- Self-paced online study via our secure eLearning system
- 15 nationally recognised units (9 core + 6 electives)
- Digital learning materials, activities, and quizzes
- Trainer support via phone, email, or video conferencing
- Monitoring of your progress and frequent meetings to ensure you’re on track
You will cover the theory units prior to or at the same time as your practical placement, so you will be thoroughly prepared for actual care settings.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Work Placement (Vocational Placement)
Workplace learning is an important part of this qualification, where you get to put your skills into practice in actual aged care and/or disability support environments under the guidance of trained professionals.
Includes:
- 120 hours of compulsory vocational placement
- Undertaken in an accredited aged care, disability, or community care facility
- Supervision by a trained support worker or supervisor
- Third-party observations and assessments to assess workplace competence
- Support can be provided by Oxford College in finding an acceptable placement, if necessary
Before placement, students are required to supply:
- A current National Police Check
- A Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) Check (state equivalent)
- Evidence of relevant vaccinations, such as COVID-19 (as needed by the host facility)
Work Placement (Vocational Placement)
Workplace learning is a vital component of this qualification, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real aged care and/or disability support settings under the supervision of qualified professionals.
Components include:
- 120 hours of mandatory vocational placement
- Conducted in a regulated aged care, disability, or community care service
- Supervision by a qualified support worker or supervisor
- Observation and third-party assessments to evaluate workplace competence
- Assistance available from Oxford College in locating a suitable placement, if required
Before placement, students must provide:
- A valid National Police Check
- A Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) Check (or state equivalent)
- Proof of relevant vaccinations, including COVID-19 (as required by the host facility)
Units
Core Units
CHCCCS031
Provide Individualised Support
Provide Individualised Support
This unit focuses on delivering care and support tailored to the specific needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. You will learn to interpret individualised care plans and apply them in practice while promoting independence, dignity, and informed choice. This includes developing communication skills to effectively collaborate with clients, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure the care being delivered aligns with the client’s evolving needs.
CHCCCS038
Facilitate the Empowerment of People Receiving Support
Facilitate the Empowerment of People Receiving Support
This unit helps you build the confidence and capability of clients by encouraging them to express their preferences, make decisions, and take control of their lives. You’ll explore strategies for advocating client rights, reducing dependence, and supporting access to services that enhance autonomy and inclusion.
CHCCCS040
Support Independence and Wellbeing
Support Independence and Wellbeing
Learn how to support the holistic wellbeing of individuals across physical, social, and emotional domains. This unit teaches how to promote independence through personalised routines, enabling individuals to maintain a sense of control and confidence in their daily lives. It also covers recognising and responding to signs of compromised wellbeing.
CHCCCS041
Recognise Healthy Body Systems
Recognise Healthy Body Systems
Understand the basic structure and functions of the human body to effectively monitor and support the physical health of clients. This unit enables you to observe, report, and document variations in body systems that may indicate health concerns, facilitating early intervention and continuity of care.
CHCCOM005
Communicate and Work in Health or Community Services
Communicate and Work in Health or Community Services
Develop essential communication skills needed for a professional care environment. This unit focuses on clear and respectful communication with clients, their families, and your colleagues. It includes written and verbal interactions, active listening, and confidentiality protocols to ensure accurate and respectful information sharing.
CHCDIV001
Work with Diverse People
Work with Diverse People
This unit highlights the importance of cultural awareness and competence in care. You will learn to work respectfully with people from varied cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It supports the development of inclusive attitudes and behaviours.
CHCLEG001
Work Legally and Ethically
Work Legally and Ethically
Gain a thorough understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities in community services. This unit explores legal requirements such as duty of care, privacy, and mandatory reporting. It also addresses ethical dilemmas and decision-making frameworks that help maintain professional boundaries and client rights.
HLTINF006
Apply Basic Principles and Practices of Infection Prevention and Control
Apply Basic Principles and Practices of Infection Prevention and Control
This unit covers standard and additional infection control precautions to ensure safe service delivery. You’ll learn about hygiene practices, PPE, cleaning routines, and how to manage risks of cross-contamination in a care environment. This knowledge is critical in reducing the spread of infection.
HLTWHS002
Follow Safe Work Practices for Direct Client Care
Follow Safe Work Practices for Direct Client Care
Focus on workplace health and safety in direct care roles. This unit teaches how to identify and respond to hazards, follow safe manual handling procedures, and report incidents appropriately. You’ll also learn strategies to maintain your own health and reduce injury risk in physically demanding care work.
Elective Units - Ageing Specialisation
CHCAGE011
Provide Support to People Living with Dementia
Provide Support to People Living with Dementia
This unit teaches the skills and knowledge needed to care for people living with dementia. You’ll explore how dementia affects cognition, behaviour, and communication, and how to adapt your care approach accordingly. You’ll learn techniques to minimise distress, support memory, and create safe, familiar environments.
CHCAGE013
Work Effectively in Aged Care
Work Effectively in Aged Care
This unit introduces the aged care sector, including its values, standards, and best practices. You’ll learn about ageing processes, common health conditions, and the importance of promoting independence and respect. It also covers teamwork and the professional expectations of aged care workers.
CHCPAL003
Deliver Care Services Using a Palliative Approach (Release 1)
Deliver Care Services Using a Palliative Approach (Release 1)
Learn to provide sensitive, compassionate care to individuals with life-limiting conditions. This unit includes pain management, comfort care, and emotional support. It emphasises dignity, choice, and cultural considerations in end-of-life care, while also recognising the needs of families and carers.
Elective Units – Disability Specialisation
CHCDIS011
Contribute to Ongoing Skills Development Using a Strengths-Based Approach
Contribute to Ongoing Skills Development Using a Strengths-Based Approach
This unit focuses on supporting individuals with disabilities to build on their strengths and capabilities. You’ll learn to develop and implement skill-building activities that encourage self-reliance, engagement, and progress toward personal goals, promoting lifelong learning and inclusion.
CHCDIS012
Support Community Participation and Social Inclusion
Support Community Participation and Social Inclusion
This unit is about helping people with disabilities to participate fully in community life. You’ll learn how to support clients in accessing local services, building social connections, and participating in meaningful activities. Emphasis is placed on advocacy, inclusion, and removing barriers to participation.
CHCDIS020
Work Effectively in Disability Support
Work Effectively in Disability Support
Gain insight into working within disability support frameworks. This unit explores rights-based approaches, person-centred care, and the practical delivery of supports tailored to individual needs. You’ll learn to collaborate with clients and professionals while maintaining safety, dignity, and independence.
Your Course Fee Includes
Delivery and assessment of your qualification
Study materials(including all resources)
Ongoing support from our Education Team
Cost and payment
The CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) course is available for only $2,000.00.
Initial Deposit of
$1,500.00 +
17 monthly instalments of
$29.41
Please see Fees and Refunds Policy for more information.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available
Oxford College of Health and Technology has a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy, to ensure that an individual’s prior learning, achieved through formal and informal training, work experience or other life experiences, is appropriately recognised. This recognition may assist Learners to progress faster through a unit of competency, or allow the student full credit.
