Join the movement to improve mental health support in Australia.
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Looking for work that actually matters?

How we feel, connect and function each day is deeply influenced by mental health — and nearly one in two Australian adults will experience mental health concerns during their life.

Mental health struggles can have far-reaching effects — from family breakdowns and unemployment to self-harm and chronic health problems.

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.

Breakthru College’s mental health courses provide the practical training and knowledge needed to begin a rewarding career in this essential sector.

Learn from experienced professionals with mental health training at Breakthru College.

As a member of the Royal Rehab Group, Breakthru College benefits from the organisation’s long-standing expertise in health and disability services, delivering practical, experience-based training.

With extensive industry expertise, our trainers guide you through hands-on learning that prepares you for real roles in mental health support. We’re here to help you build a career, not just earn a certificate.

Awarded for excellence

Breakthru College is proud to hold official recognition from the Department of Education as a High-Performing Provider.

This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering quality training, dedicated student support, and practical job readiness. Choosing Breakthru College means choosing a trusted and proven provider.

Focused on student success

At Breakthru College, we respect that everyone learns differently.

Our student-focused, flexible approach provides personalised support and digital guidance—so you can build skills and confidence studying both online or on campus.

Led by industry experts

With decades of industry experience, our trainers have worked extensively across 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.

Loved by students

Breakthru College is known for more than qualifications; students value our inclusive and encouraging environment.

At Breakthru College, we support each student’s growth with care and encouragement—and many show their trust by coming back or referring friends.

Our mental health courses

Mental health support provides a purposeful career for those who want to help others and strengthen the fabric of their communities.

Breakthru College offers nationally recognised training designed to support both new and experienced professionals in the mental health field.

CHC43315

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Designed for those entering the sector, this course supports mental health care work in residential, clinical, and employment program settings.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
12 - 24 months
Work placement
Work placement
80 hours (mandatory)
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • Working with diverse people from all age groups and backgrounds
  • Providing recovery focused support and services
  • Supporting social, emotional and physical wellbeing
  • Managing co-existing diagnoses and conditions
  • Responding to behaviours of concern and crisis situations

Mental Health Courses Near Sydney

Mental Health Course Sydney

CHC43515

Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work

Designed for individuals with direct or indirect experience of mental health, this course prepares you to support others in a range of service environments.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
12 – 24 months
Work placement
Work placement
80 hours (mandatory)
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • Delivering trauma informed care
  • Facilitating client self-advocacy
  • Applying your lived experiences in a mental health setting
  • Working effectively with clients and carers as a mental health peer worker
  • Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships

Trauma Informed Care

Gain practical skills and insight to support trauma-affected individuals with this expert-developed short course.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
3-hour workshop or self-paced online
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • How to identify warning signs and take steps to avoid re-traumatisation.
  • How to communicate effectively with someone who has experienced trauma.
  • How to help develop strategies and plans to help those with trauma.
  • How to aid recovery with compassion and expertise.
  • How to help those with trauma navigate tasks and situations.
  • How to practice self-care techniques and avoid vicarious trauma.

Mental Health Support Courses Sydney

Mental Health Course near Sydney

Mental Health First Aid

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.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
This two-day mental health course is delivered under the authority of Mental Health First Aid Australia, by MHFA accredited instructors.
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:

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.

Mental health courses supported by government funding options.

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.

Students who do not qualify for funding:

Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

NSW Government

Smart and Skilled (NSW)

Government-subsidised training for eligible NSW residents. It applies to courses on the NSW Skills List, from Certificate II to Advanced Diploma. Use the online fee-estimate tool to confirm eligibility and see your student fee.

Frequently asked questions

Course length depends on the qualification you choose. Certificate IV courses typically take between 12 and 24 months, based on whether you study full-time or part-time.

Each qualification leads to valuable roles in mental health, but they are built on distinct foundations. The Certificate IV in Mental Health offers broad-based training to support individuals facing mental health difficulties, while the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work is designed for those with lived experience who wish to assist others through empathy and shared understanding.

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.

Breakthru College qualifications can lead into advanced study options, including diplomas and bachelor degrees.

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.

As a registered training organisation, Breakthru College delivers online mental health courses that can be completed from any location, offering flexibility for students who don’t wish to study in a centre-based environment.

Eligible students may have access to subsidised training through programs such as Skills Assure Funding in Queensland and Smart and Skilled Funding in New South Wales. If subsidies don’t apply, flexible payment plans—weekly, fortnightly, or monthly—are available.

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.

Reach out today to take the next step in your professional journey.

Breakthru College offers mental health training that can lead to meaningful roles in a thriving field. Reach out today to see how we can assist with your career goals.

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Royal Rehab acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future and we extend our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples.
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