Mental health underpins how we think, work and relate to others, yet close to half of all Australians are expected to encounter mental health issues in their lives.
Left unaddressed, mental health issues can lead to serious outcomes like job loss, relationship breakdowns, homelessness, and physical illness.
Australia’s mental health workforce is under pressure, with just over 62,000 registered workers in 2020 — far fewer than needed to meet rising demand for care.
Prepare for a career that matters with hands-on mental health training from Breakthru College.
Breakthru College—part of the Royal Rehab Group, a trusted not-for-profit providing health and disability services—offers training that’s informed by real-life practice.
Our experienced trainers ensure your education combines theory with real-world application. At Breakthru College, we’re committed to helping you create a purposeful career in mental health care.
Breakthru College is among the few training providers recognised by the Department of Education as a High-Performing Provider.
This acknowledgement highlights our ongoing commitment to quality, support, and job-focused outcomes. Breakthru College is a provider with a proven history of success.
At Breakthru College, we respect that everyone learns differently.
Our flexible, student-focused approach includes personalised support, tailored resources, and help with digital tools—so you can thrive whether you study online or on campus.
Our trainers are experienced professionals with decades of work in aged care, disability, and healthcare.
With real-world knowledge, practical guidance, and a passion for teaching, our trainers ensure you’re supported and workplace-ready from the very beginning.
Students choose Breakthru College not just for the qualifications, but for our warm, inclusive, and supportive environment.
We value every student as an individual and create an environment that builds confidence, inspiration, and growth. Many return for further study or refer others—proof of the impact we make.
A career in mental health support is a meaningful path for compassionate individuals to make a real difference in people's lives and support stronger communities.
Our nationally recognised courses give you the practical skills and knowledge needed for a fulfilling role in mental health—at any stage of your career.
Suitable for entry into the mental health field, this course opens pathways to roles in community contexts such as residential, clinical, and employment support settings.
Designed for individuals with direct or indirect experience of mental health, this course prepares you to support others in a range of service environments.
This short course, designed by professionals in the field, helps you build the understanding needed to support those who have experienced trauma.
Gain the skills to assist individuals at risk of or experiencing poor mental health. Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to provide early support to adults developing mental illness or facing a mental health crisis, offering help until professional care is received.
The qualification will support individuals in professions at risk of developing mental illness, enabling workplaces to develop practical, evidence-based action plans until appropriate professional help is received.
Australian residents living in NSW may be eligible to have all or part of their course fees subsidised using the Smart & Skilled State Government funding scheme.
Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.
With our mental health courses, you can work in roles across community organisations, rehab and respite care, and outreach initiatives.
You’ll find more career variety in the mental health sector than expected, with options tailored to your individual goals.
You may pursue roles such as:
Online enrolments are now open, and you can register your interest in our online courses from Newcastle.
Depending on the qualification, course duration can vary. Accredited programs like a Certificate IV generally take 12–24 months to complete, depending on your study mode.
Both courses offer pathways into mental health support roles, but they differ in intent. The Certificate IV in Mental Health provides a structured approach to client care, while the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work centres on using personal experience to connect with and assist clients and carers.
Each course features a placement component that lets you use your training in genuine care environments. You'll be guided by industry professionals as you gain experience ahead of entering the sector.
Finishing a course with Breakthru College can open the door to continued study, including diploma or bachelor-level qualifications.
Students with relevant experience may be able to apply for recognition of prior learning by enrolling in a course and submitting the RPL form from their Learner Handbook. A $250 fee applies per unit assessed.
Yes, as a registered training organisation, Breakthru College provides mental health training online, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location as an alternative to in-person learning.
Subsidy schemes like Skills Assure (QLD) and Smart and Skilled (NSW) are available for eligible learners. If funding isn't available, students can choose from a range of payment plans, including weekly, fortnightly, or monthly instalments.
If you live in Queensland, you can visit the QLD Government website to check your eligibility.
NSW residents can visit the NSW Government Smart and Skilled page to check eligibility criteria.
Gain a recognised mental health qualification with Breakthru College and unlock new pathways in your career. Contact us to learn how we can support your next step.
