Diploma of Mental Health
Build a meaningful career in mental health support with this nationally recognised Diploma. Learn recovery-oriented practice, trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, AOD co-occurring care, and how to work alongside people experiencing complex mental health challenges. Delivered over 52 weeks (48 weeks of teaching plus 4 placement weeks). The course includes a 160-hour supervised workplace placement and includes the mandatory CHCMHS010 (Implement…
Three Ways to Study
Every pathway covers the same units, the same fees, and leads to the same nationally recognised qualification.
Blended
Campus + onlineTwo days on campus at Kilkenny plus one day online via the eSkilled LMS. Around 20 contact hours per week.
Online
Fully remoteLive virtual classes plus monitored online study — learn from anywhere with reliable internet. Around 20 contact hours per week.
Classroom-Based
Fully on-campusThree days a week in the classroom at Kilkenny, with no online component. Same units, fees and qualification as the other pathways.
What You'll Learn
Build practical skills the care sector needs.
Build a meaningful career in mental health support with this nationally recognised Diploma. Learn recovery-oriented practice, trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, AOD co-occurring care, and how to work alongside people experiencing complex mental health challenges.
Delivered over 52 weeks (48 weeks of teaching plus 4 placement weeks). The course includes a 160-hour supervised workplace placement and includes the mandatory CHCMHS010 (Implement recovery oriented approaches to complexity) workplace assessment unit. Eligible students may access SkillsSA subsidised training from $900.
Recovery-Oriented Practice
Designed with employers — graduate ready to work.
160 hours
Real-world experience with industry partners.
Nationally Recognised
RTO 45269 — ASQA-regulated qualification.
Small Class Sizes
Maximum 25 students per class — personal attention.
20 Units of Competency
15 core units plus 5 electives.
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| CHCDIV001 | Work with diverse people |
| CHCDIV002 | Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety |
| 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 AOD issues |
| CHCMHS009 | Provide early intervention, health prevention and promotion programs |
| CHCMHS010 | Implement recovery oriented approaches to complexity (mandatory workplace assessment) |
| CHCMHS011 | Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing |
| CHCMHS012 | Provide support to develop wellness plans and advanced directives |
| CHCMHS013 | Implement trauma informed care |
| CHCADV005 | Provide systems advocacy services |
| CHCPOL003 | Research and apply evidence to practice |
| CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice |
| HLTWHS004 | Manage work health and safety |
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| CHCCSL001 | Establish and confirm the counselling relationship |
| HLTHPS006 | Assist clients with medication |
| HLTAAP001 | Recognise healthy body systems |
| CHCCCS038 | Facilitate the empowerment of people receiving support |
| CHCMGT005 | Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes |
How It Works
A clear, supported pathway from your first enquiry to graduation.
Apply
Submit your enquiry, complete the LLN assessment, and attend a pre-training review. Our team guides you through every step.
Study
Practical, hands-on learning with experienced industry trainers in small classes — face-to-face campus sessions plus online study.
Placement
Complete 160 hours of supervised workplace placement, building real-world experience with our industry partners.
Graduate
Receive your nationally recognised qualification and step into your career with the skills and industry connections to succeed.
Launch Your Care Career
Graduates are in demand across aged care, disability support, NDIS-funded organisations, and the broader community services sector.
Mental Health Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Mental Health Outreach Worker
Competitive industry rates
Community Rehabilitation & Recovery Worker
Competitive industry rates
Case Manager (Mental Health)
Competitive industry rates
Program Coordinator (Mental Health)
Competitive industry rates
Peer Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Recovery Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Psychosocial Recovery Coach
Competitive industry rates
Mental Health Clinician Support
Competitive industry rates
Indicative Salary Range
Fees & Funding
Transparent pricing with flexible payment options.
Fee-for-Service
Payment Plan: 7 instalments — $1,450 at enrolment, then 5 instalments of $1,200, then a final $800
View Refund PolicySkillsSA Subsidised
Eligibility and subsidy amounts are determined by Skills SA. Visit skills.sa.gov.au or contact us to check your eligibility.
Subsidised training fees for this course are funded by the Skills SA program of the Government of South Australia. Eligibility is determined by Skills SA — visit skills.sa.gov.au for details.
Additional Costs (Pre-Placement Requirements)
These clearances must be obtained before starting your workplace placement. Costs are not included in the course fee.
National Police Check ($25–$65)
NDIS Worker Screening Check (if placement involves NDIS participants)
First Aid HLTAID011 ($100–$200)
Working with Children / Vulnerable People Check (varies by state/territory)
Immunisations and COVID-19 vaccination (as required by host organisation)
Entry Requirements
No prior qualifications in community services are required. Here's what you need to get started.
Age Requirement
Must be 18 years of age or older at course commencement.
Education
Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III qualification, is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants with prior study or work experience in mental health, community services, health or disability are well regarded.
Language, Literacy & Numeracy
LLND at ACSF Level 3 or above, assessed during the application process. A pre-enrolment interview is also required to confirm suitability and support needs.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
A valid USI is required for enrolment. Create one at www.usi.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this qualification.
Ready to Start Your Career in Care?
Take the first step today. Fill in your details and our admissions team will be in touch within 24 hours to guide you through the enrolment process.