Work placement is a mandatory part of every CRICOS-registered aged care qualification in Australia. For international students studying at Clinton Institute in Melbourne, placement is arranged with established aged care providers — not self-arranged. This guide explains exactly how the process works and how to prepare.

Step 1 — Enrol in a CRICOS-Registered Aged Care Course

Before you can begin placement, you must first enrol in a CRICOS-registered aged care qualification. Clinton Institute offers two CRICOS-registered courses that include mandatory work placement:

• CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support — 28 weeks, minimum 120 placement hours
• CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support — 52 weeks, minimum 160 placement hours

Both courses are delivered at Clinton Institute's Melbourne campus (Level 9, 313 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000). To apply, contact admission@clinton.edu.au or use the online application form.

Step 2 — Gather Your Required Documents

Clinton Institute requires the following documents before your placement can be confirmed. Submit these to ciworkplacement@clinton.edu.au at least 8 weeks before your intended placement start date:

• National Police Certificate (NPC) — Apply through the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Processing time: 5-15 business days.
• NDIS Worker Screening Check — Apply through the NDIS Commission. Processing time: up to 20 business days.
• HLTAID011 Provide First Aid Certificate — Complete through a registered training organisation.
• Infection Control Certificate — Clinton Institute provides this as part of your course.
• Manual Handling Certificate — Clinton Institute provides this as part of your course.
• COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate — Evidence of vaccination status as required by each placement facility.
• Schedule 1 Acknowledgement Form — Provided by Clinton Institute during orientation.

Tip: Start your police check and NDIS screening as early as possible — these are the longest-processing documents.

Step 3 — Clinton Institute Assigns Your Placement

Unlike some providers that require students to find their own placement, Clinton Institute arranges placements with its established partner facilities. This means you do not need to contact aged care providers directly or arrange your own placement.

Clinton Institute's placement partners include:

• Arcare — One of Australia's largest aged care providers, with multiple Melbourne locations
• Opal Healthcare — Major aged care provider operating across Victoria
• Benetas — Established not-for-profit aged care provider with Melbourne facilities

Your placement facility is determined by Clinton Institute based on course intake timing, facility capacity, and your home location. You will be notified of your placement facility and start date by your trainer.

Step 4 — Prepare for Your First Day at Placement

On your first day at the aged care facility, you can expect:

• An orientation to the facility, including fire exits, WHS procedures, and staff introductions
• Assignment to a placement supervisor who will guide your learning
• An overview of the residents you will be supporting during your placement

What to bring:

• Your Clinton Institute student ID
• Completed placement documents (confirm with your trainer)
• Comfortable, enclosed shoes (no open-toed footwear in aged care facilities)
• A notebook and pen for recording observations
• Your lunch and water bottle — shifts can be full days

Step 5 — During Placement: What You Will Actually Do

Under the supervision of qualified aged care workers, you will assist with daily care tasks. These typically include:

• Supporting residents with personal care (mobility, dressing, hygiene, meals)
• Social activities and community engagement sessions
• Observing and reporting changes in resident wellbeing to your supervisor
• Following WHS and infection control procedures at all times

Your placement supervisor will formally assess your performance against unit competency requirements throughout the placement. Clinton Institute trainers remain contactable and available to support you throughout.

What Happens If You Need Support During Placement?

If you encounter any difficulties during placement — whether related to your role, the facility, or personal circumstances — contact your Clinton Institute trainer immediately. Do not wait until the end of your placement to raise concerns. Clinton Institute provides reasonable adjustments for students with disability or health conditions; discuss your needs with your trainer before placement begins.

After Placement: Getting Your Qualification

Once you have completed all required placement hours and your supervisor has confirmed competency sign-off, Clinton Institute will issue your qualification. From there, you can pursue employment in the aged care sector or continue your studies with the CHC52025 Diploma of Community Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I arrange my own aged care placement?

Clinton Institute arranges placements with approved partner facilities to ensure quality supervision and compliance with CRICOS requirements. Self-arranged placements are generally not accepted. Your placement is organised by Clinton Institute — you do not need to contact facilities directly.

Is aged care placement paid?

No. Work placement as part of your qualification is unpaid. Once you complete your qualification and hold a valid NDIS Worker Screening Check, you can apply for paid roles in the aged care sector.

Can I choose which suburb or facility I am placed in?

Placement assignments are made by Clinton Institute based on facility availability and intake scheduling. While preferences can be noted, placement locations cannot be guaranteed. Clinton Institute selects quality facilities within Melbourne to ensure you receive proper supervision and learning experiences.

What if I miss placement days due to illness?

Notify your placement supervisor and Clinton Institute trainer as early as possible if you cannot attend a scheduled placement day. Missed hours may need to be rescheduled at the discretion of your trainer and the placement facility. Documentation (such as a medical certificate) may be required for extended absences.

Do I need to speak English well to do placement?

Yes. Aged care work requires effective communication with residents, their families, and your care team. International students are expected to meet Clinton Institute's English entry requirements before commencing placement. Your trainer can discuss any support options if you have concerns about language proficiency during placement.