CHC43315

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Why study a Certificate IV in Mental Health?

Expand your employment prospects in a growing sector

Equip yourself for career progression into senior roles

Strengthen your capabilities and impact in the care industry

Contribute to meaningful change in people’s lives

Take advantage of government subsidies to lower your course fees

This nationally recognised qualification gives you the tools to make a meaningful difference, elevating both your career and the lives of those you support.

Who is the Certificate IV in Mental Health ideal for?

Mental Health Support Workers

Enhance your practice with evidence-based strategies and a deeper understanding of mental health conditions.

Disability Support Workers

Deepen your understanding of mental health to provide more responsive, person-centred support.

Aged Care Workers

Build the skills to better recognise and respond to mental health challenges in older adults.

Course Overview

AQF level

Certificate IV

Course duration

6 to 12 months

Delivery method

Classroom or online

Fees & funding

Government-funded or from $42.89 per week

Work Placement

80 hours of work placement required

Number of Units

15 units required to complete

Launch Your Career in Mental Health Support

Train with the experts

Make a real difference in people’s lives with a nationally recognised qualification designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to support individuals living with mental illness and psychiatric disability. With demand for mental health support workers rising across Australia, this course opens the door to a meaningful and rewarding career.

Also ideal for those in aged care or disability support, this qualification strengthens your ability to deliver holistic, recovery-oriented care across diverse settings – from community programs and outreach to residential and clinical environments. Help empower individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve their goals through inclusive, person-centred support.

Why choose Breakthru College?

Train with the experts

We’re part of the Royal Rehab Group, a not-for-profit that works every day in the health and disability space. So, when we teach, it’s based on real experience – not just theory. Our goal is simple: to help you build a rewarding career in care and support. With us, it’s not just about getting a qualification – it’s about learning the skills that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Industry Insights

Awarded for excellence

Breakthru College is proud to be one of the few Registered Training Organisations officially recognised by the Department of Education as a High-Performing Provider.

This distinction reflects our consistent delivery of outstanding training outcomes, strong student support, and industry-ready graduates. When you choose Breakthru, you’re partnering with a trusted leader in vocational education.

Industry Insights

Led by industry experts

Our trainers are seasoned professionals with extensive experience across mental health, disability, and community services sectors.

They bring practical insights, real-world scenarios, and deep expertise into the classroom – ensuring your learning is both relevant and impactful. Their commitment goes beyond teaching; they mentor, guide, and support you every step of the way.

Industry Insights

Focused on student success

At Breakthru College, we understand that no two learners are the same.

Our flexible, student-centred approach includes personalised support, tailored resources, and assistance with digital tools – ensuring every student has the confidence and capability to succeed, whether learning online or in person.

Industry Insights

Loved by students

Students consistently commend Breakthru College for its inclusive, respectful, and empowering environment.

We foster a culture where every learner feels valued and supported- leading many to return for further study or recommend us to others. It’s a testament to the genuine care we invest in every student’s journey.

What you will gain

A strong foundation in mental health care and support

Whether you’re already working in mental health support or looking to expand your role, this qualification will strengthen your capability, confidence, and impact.

The Certificate IV in Mental Health provides a solid foundation in evidence-based care, while advancing your practical skills to support individuals with complex needs across a variety of settings.

You will gain expertise in:

  • Deepen your understanding of mental health conditions and recovery principles
  • Strengthen your ability to support clients in maintaining independence and wellbeing
  • Confidently manage dual diagnoses and co-existing conditions
  • Deliver recovery-oriented care in both individual and group settings
  • Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
  • Apply legal and ethical frameworks in practice
  • Embed cultural competence and inclusive approaches into your work

This qualification empowers you to take the next step in your career while continuing to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of those you support.

 

Learning made affordable

Skills Assure Logo

Queensland (QLD)

If you qualify for Government funding: Your total cost could be as low as $45

If you do not qualify for Government funding: Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

Online course fee: $2,775

NSW Government Logo

New South Wales (NSW)

Students who qualify for Government funding: There are fee-free and subsidised places available, depending on your individual circumstances.

Students who do not qualify for Government funding: Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

Online course fee: $2,775

Career Opportunities

Get the qualification you need to take the next step in your career. The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) course open the door to meaningful new roles where you can make a real difference every day. Potential Career pathways include:

Disability Support Worker

Mental Health Support Worker

Assist individuals in community or clinical settings with mental health issues, supporting them on their recovery journey and improving their general health and well-being.

 

Average salary

$31.73 – $45.89/hr ($62,712 – $90,688p.a.)

Personal Care Assistant

Rehabilitation Support Worker

Support clients recovering from injury, illness, or disability by helping them regain independence and improve daily functioning through tailored rehabilitation activities.

Average salary

$29.00 – $38.00/hr ($56,628 – $74,672 p.a.)

Residential Care Officer

Specialist Support Worker

Provide targeted assistance to individuals with complex needs, delivering specialized care and support plans to enhance their quality of life and community participation.

 

Average salary

$33.00 – $44.00/hr ($64,152 – $85,536 p.a.)

Award-Winning Training Excellence

Recognised for our award-winning learning experience

At Breakthru College, we are proud to be recognised for the quality and impact of our training programs.

In 2024, we were named Queensland’s Training Initiative of the Year for our Certificate III in Individual Support and honoured with the NSW Trainer Excellence Award, reflecting our unwavering commitment to high-quality, student-centred education.

When you study with Breakthru College, you’ll learn from respected industry professionals like Gil – recipient of the prestigious Ken Downie Award at the NSW Training Awards – who bring real-world expertise and passion to every classroom.

Certificate III in Individual Support
Leigh Brown - Graduate & Support Worker
Open Quote

Studying at Breakthru College was a great experience. The support and practical skills I learned helped me grow personally and professionally. The inclusive environment and dedicated staff (Gil) gave me a really strong foundation for my future career!

Lachlan White, Certificate IV Graduate & Team Leader

Close Quote

Course Locations

Cert 3 Individual Support Online

Online

Ideal for those with a busy schedule, our online classes are tailored to suit your needs, allowing you to study and enhance your skills while making time for the important things.

Cert 3 Individual Support Townsville

Townsville

Located in the heart of North Queensland, our Townsville classes offer a supportive, local learning environment where you can build your skills close to home.

Sydney South West Certificate III Individual Support

Sydney South West

Perfect for those in Western Sydney, our South-West classes provides hands-on training with experienced local trainers, helping you balance study with your everyday commitments.

Cert 3 Individual Support Brisbane

Brisbane South

Set in a vibrant city of Brisbane, our Brisbane South classes are designed for flexibility—empowering you to upskill, stay connected locally, and get job-ready.

Cert 3 Individual Support Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Coast

Enjoy learning in a relaxed coastal setting with our Sunshine Coast classes. It’s ideal for locals wanting practical training and real-world experience while enjoying the benefits of staying close to home.

Certificate III in Individual Support Newcastle

Newcastle

Our Newcastle classes combine quality face-to-face learning with the convenience of being local. Build new skills, connect with industry trainers, and work toward your goals in a welcoming setting.

Subjects and units​

There are fifteen (15) units of competency to complete for the Certificate IV in Mental Health qualification, comprised of eleven (11) core units and four (4) elective units. A work placement of 80 hours is also required.

Code Title Core or Elective
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people Core
CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety Core
CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically Core
CHCMHS002 Establish self-directed recovery relationships Core
CHCMHS003 Provide recovery oriented mental health services Core
CHCMHS004 Work collaboratively with the care network and other services Core
CHCMHS005 Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues Core
CHCMHS007 Work effectively in trauma informed care Core
CHCMHS008 Promote and facilitate self-advocacy Core
CHCMHS011 Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing Core
HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety Core

All electives below must be selected for award of the CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).

Code Title Core or Elective
CHCCCS014 Provide brief interventions Elective
CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations Elective
CHCCCS020 Respond effectively to behaviours of concern Elective
CHCPRP001 Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnershipses Elective

Enquire now

If you’d like more information prior to enrolling, please get in touch using the form below.

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Entry requirements

Students who complete the Certificate IV in Mental Health CHC43315 may wish to complete a dual qualification with CHC43515 Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work or CHC52015 Diploma of Community Services.

Language, literacy and numeracy

You must demonstrate that you have the required level of Language, Literacy and Numeracy skills necessary to complete this course by undertaking a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment.

Physical requirements

Learners will need to have a reasonable level of fitness as the role may involve a variety of physical tasks such as providing personal care, assisting clients with mobility and supporting clients with transfers. Learners may also be required to stand or walk for long periods of time.

Resource requirements

To effectively participate in their studies, all online learners are required to have their own laptop / tablet installed with Microsoft Office or similar. Learners are also required to have access to a stable internet connection and a computer / laptop / tablet to participate in an online LLN assessment.

Breakthru College also has an option to provide physical copies of learning and assessment resources for face to face students.

Delivery and assessment

Breakthru College will use the following delivery and assessment methods.

Delivery methods

  • Face to face / virtual classroom (theory and practical sessions) – includes classroom-based delivery for knowledge and practical teaching in a simulated environment
  • Self-paced study (structured and mandatory) – students are required to undertake self-study to complete a range of structured activities such as reading, research, completing case studies, and quizzes to reinforce their learning.

Assessment methods

  • Oral or Written Questions
  • Observation / Demonstration / Role-play
  • Report
  • Portfolio of Evidence
  • Case Study
  • Research
  • Journal / Log
  • Third Party Report

You will be required to complete a range of activities throughout the course depending on the requirements of each unit of competency. You will also be provided with the assessment and delivery plan at the commencement of your course which outlines the topics to be covered, duration, resources and due dates.

Study expectations

You are expected to allocate a minimum of 27 to 33 hours per week to undertake this qualification. This includes training, self-paced study, supervised and non-supervised assessment activities, and work placement requirements.

If you are an existing worker in the industry, you may with permission use your workplace for your work placement hours and assessment.

Work placement

Students are strongly encouraged to contact a host organisation and arrange their work placement as early as possible. If you’re unable to secure your own work placement, please contact Breakthru College for assistance.

When applying for work placement, students may also be required to obtain several clearances before commencing at their host organisation. This may include:

  • National Police Certificate
  • Working with Children Check
  • NDIS Worker Screening Clearence
  • Vaccination record check
  • Code of Conduct check

Please speak with your work placement host organisation regarding specific screening requirements, as policies may vary.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly can I complete my qualification?

It takes between 6 – 12 months to complete most of our accredited qualifications. This depends on your ability to study the appropriate modules and complete your assessments.

All accredited qualifications also require 80 – 120 hours of work placement to be completed prior to graduation, which may take some time for students to complete.

Are there any fees payable if I withdraw from my course?

You will not be charged any fees if you wish to withdraw your enrolment.

If you have previously withdrawn from one of our courses and wish to re-enrol, a $350 administration fee may be applied.

How quickly can I commence my studies?

Once all of your enrolment information has been received, we generally process your enrolment and provide initial access to learning materials within 1 – 2 business days.

Can I use my work experience as evidence of prior learning?

Yes, students may use their work experience as evidence of prior learning.

To do this, students must first enrol in a qualification and complete the RPL Application Form attached to their Learner Handbook.

Note there is a $250 administration fee applied for each RPL unit.

How can I check my eligibility for Government funding?

If you reside in Queensland, you can visit the Queensland Government website to check your eligibility: https://www.qld.gov.au/education/training/subsidies/check-your-eligibility

If you’re still unsure or would like some assistance, please get in touch and we can help assess your eligibility.

Qualifications you might also like

Certificate IV in Disability

Certificate IV in Disability

The Certificate IV in Disability reflects roles where workers empower individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and wellbeing. This course can be delivered either in a classroom or online.

Certificate Ageing Support

Certificate IV in Ageing

This course has been created to reflect the real life roles of support workers in their roles in aged services. You will need to find and complete work placement for this qualification of at least 120 hours.

Certificate III in Individual Support

Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work

This qualification reflects the role of workers in community services that offer person-centred support. 6 to 12 months of work placement is required.

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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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