CHC43315 - Certificate IV in Mental Health

CHC43315 - Certificate IV in Mental Health

Empower Your Community with Culturally Safe Mental Health Support

Are you passionate about improving mental health and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families, and communities? The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) provides you with the knowledge and practical skills to deliver culturally responsive support, counselling, and advocacy for those experiencing mental health challenges.

This course will prepare you to work in Aboriginal health services, community-controlled organisations, crisis intervention programs, and mental health support roles.


Why Choose This Qualification?

Culturally Safe Training – Designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with a focus on Indigenous approaches to mental health and well-being.
In-Demand Career Pathways – Gain employment in community health, counselling, crisis support, youth mental health, and Aboriginal health services.
Supportive Learning Environment – Learn from experienced trainers who understand Indigenous mental health challenges.
Flexible Learning OptionsBlended learning (online, face-to-face, and workplace-based training).
Away From Base (AFB) Approved – Eligible students can access the AFB allowance to support their studies.


Course Overview

  • Course Code & Name: CHC43315 - Certificate IV in Mental Health
  • Duration: 12 months (full-time) or part-time options available
  • Delivery Mode: Blended learning (online, face-to-face, workplace training)
  • Study Hours: Approx. 900-1400 hours

Course Units

Core Units

  • CHCMHS002 - Establish self-directed recovery relationships
  • CHCMHS003 - Provide recovery-oriented mental health services
  • CHCMHS004 - Work collaboratively with the care network and other services
  • CHCMHS005 - Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues
  • CHCMHS007 - Work effectively in trauma-informed care
  • CHCMHS008 - Promote and facilitate self-advocacy
  • CHCMHS011 - Assess and promote social, emotional and physical well-being
  • CHCDIV001 - Work with diverse people
  • CHCLEG001 - Work legally and ethically
  • HLTWHS001 - Participate in workplace health and safety

Elective Units (Selected Based on Career Goals)

  • CHCCCS019 - Recognise and respond to crisis situations
  • CHCAOD004 - Assess needs of clients with alcohol and other drugs issues
  • CHCGRP002 - Plan and conduct group activities
  • CHCYTH001 - Engage respectfully with young people

For a full list of units, please visit training.gov.au.


Delivery Locations

📍 Sydney Region: 35 Harvey Street, Little Bay NSW 2036 (Aboriginal Health College)

📍 Satellite Locations:

  • West Region: 8 Tony McGrane Pl, Dubbo NSW 2830
  • South Region: TBA
  • North Region: TBA

Course Offering Schedule

📆 Semester 1 Intake:

  • Applications Open: October
  • Applications Close: December
  • Course Starts: February

📆 Semester 2 Intake:

  • Applications Open: March
  • Applications Close: Early June
  • Course Starts: July

💡 Late Applications? Contact us to discuss enrolment options!


Entry Requirements

Must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
Minimum age of 18 years
Completion of Year 10 or equivalent (or relevant experience in mental health, social work, or community services)
Basic computer skills for online learning components


Course Cost & Funding

💰 Fee Range: $0 - $6,500 per student (call for exact pricing)

🟢 NSW Smart & Skilled Subsidised Training and Fee Exemptions:

  • Fee-Free Exemptions: $0
  • Concession: $160
  • Subsidised Fee: $850 (first qualification)
  • Full Fee: $6,500

For more information on fees, subsidies, and payment plans, visit our Fees & Funding page.


Study Resources & Support

📚 Access to learning materials:

  • Office 365 Student Account – Includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Online Library Database for research and study support
  • Printed and digital study booklets

📡 Remote Learning Support: Alternative arrangements available for students in remote areas.

📞 Student Support Services:
✔ Academic support and tutoring
✔ Career advice and job placement assistance
✔ Culturally appropriate counselling services
✔ Away From Base (AFB) support for eligible students


Intensive (Residential) Study

📍 Face-to-Face Intensive Training Blocks are required as part of this qualification.
📍 Held at Aboriginal Health College, Little Bay NSW and other regional locations.


Away From Base (AFB) Eligibility

Eligible Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students can receive financial support for:
✅ Travel costs to and from the training location
✅ Accommodation expenses while attending training
✅ Meals and incidental costs

🛑 AFB students must apply for ABSTUDY - Incidental Allowance before their first intensive block.

📢 Note: If you are a Trainee in NSW, AFB is not available. Instead, you may be eligible for VTAS travel and accommodation support.

For full AFB details, visit our Away From Base support page.


Workplace Training & Employment Pathways

🔹 Work Placement & Practical Training:

  • Hands-on experience in Aboriginal Medical Services, crisis intervention programs, drug and alcohol services, and community mental health support roles.

🎯 Career Outcomes:
✔ Mental Health Support Worker
✔ Aboriginal Mental Health Practitioner
✔ Alcohol and Other Drugs Worker
✔ Youth Mental Health Worker

📚 Further Study Pathways:
✔ Diploma of Mental Health (CHC53315)
✔ Diploma of Community Services (CHC52021)
✔ Other related social and community services qualifications


Apply Now & Take the Next Step!

📞 Call: 02 9030 8200
📩 Email: info@ahmrc.edu.au
🌐 Website: www.ahmrc.org.au

🚀 Ready to support your community and make a difference in mental health? Submit your application today!