How Much Does It Cost to Study Early Childhood Education in Australia

How Much Does It Cost to Study Early Childhood Education in Australia

PUBLISHED25 September 2025
WRITTEN BYAllison Roos

If you are thinking about starting a career in early childhood education and care (ECEC), one of the first questions you might ask is: how much does it cost to study? Understanding the fees, options, and potential financial support can help you plan your path and make the right decision for your future.

Typical Course Costs

In Australia, ECEC courses can range from Certificate III to Diploma level, with costs varying depending on the provider and location. On average:

  • Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care: $2,600 to $4,500
  • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care: $6,000 to $12,000

These prices cover tuition, learning materials, and access to work placements. Some providers may offer flexible payment plans to make it easier to manage costs.

Factors That Affect Costs

Several factors can influence how much you pay for your course:

  • Mode of study: Online courses may have different fees compared to in-person classes.
  • Course duration: Shorter, intensive programs might be slightly more expensive per term, but total costs may be lower.
  • Materials and resources: Some courses include all learning materials, while others charge extra.

Financial Support and Subsidies

Although government funding is not available for all providers, there are other ways to make studying more affordable:

  • Payment plans: Many colleges, including Kirana Colleges, offer flexible instalment options.
  • Scholarships and grants: Some private providers may offer merit-based or needs-based scholarships.
  • Tax deductions: You may be able to claim certain education expenses if they are related to your work or study.

Why Kirana Colleges Is a Smart Choice

Kirana Colleges offers nationally recognised CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and CareCHC50125 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and CHC30121 / CHC50125 Double Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care courses. While we do not provide government-subsidised funding, we make it easier for students to manage costs with:

  • Payment plans starting from $31 per week for Certificate courses and $48 per week for Diploma courses (see options here)
  • 100% interest-free instalments, with the choice of weekly or fortnightly payments
  • Multiple payment methods including direct debit, EFT, and credit card
  • Fees that cover course administration, learning materials, assessments, student support, and certification upon completion
  • The potential to access Centrelink payments (such as Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY) if you are eligible, since several Kirana Colleges courses are approved for Services Australia support

Our approach also offers flexibility and personalised support, helping you get the most out of your learning experience:

  • Study at your own pace, without having to fit into a rigid classroom timetable
  • Complete your course as quickly or gradually as suits your lifestyle
  • Direct access to your teacher for personalised guidance and support
  • A structured work placement commitment, giving you hands-on experience and practical skills in real-world settings

Planning for Your Future

Studying early childhood education is an investment in your career and in the lives of children. By understanding the costs upfront and planning accordingly, you can focus on gaining the skills and experience needed to thrive in this rewarding sector. With Kirana Colleges, you can take the next step with confidence, knowing you are receiving quality training that will open doors to a meaningful career in early childhood education and care.

The cost of studying early childhood education in Australia varies depending on the course level, provider, and study mode. While fees are an important consideration, the long-term benefits of entering this growing, high-demand sector make it a worthwhile investment. Kirana Colleges provides flexible, practical, and affordable courses designed to help you start your career and make a real difference in children’s lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m a mature-aged student. How can Kirana Colleges support someone like me?

Absolutely! At Kirana Colleges, we understand that returning to study can be a big step, especially when balancing family, work, or other commitments. That’s why our courses are delivered online, giving you the flexibility to study when and where it suits you best. Whether you're most productive in the evenings or early mornings, you can learn at your own pace and in your own time.

Q: Are there any support services to help mature-aged students adjust to studying again?

Yes, we offer a range of support services tailored to your needs. Through our partnership with AccessEAP, you have access to a 24/7 counselling hotline and up to three complimentary counselling sessions (in-person or via Skype).

You’ll also have the support of our dedicated student support team, who are here to help you with course navigation, study advice, and any general enquiries throughout your learning journey.

Q: How many hours should I dedicate to study each week?

If you're studying full-time, we recommend allocating around 15-20 hours per week to coursework and assessments. Setting aside regular time each week will help you stay on track and progress steadily toward your qualification and career goals.

Q: Do I need computer skills to study online?

Yes, you’ll need basic computer skills to get started. This includes being comfortable using email, browsing the internet, and navigating our online learning platform. Don’t worry, our team is here to help if you need support getting set up.

Speak to one of our Course and Career’s Advisors
if you have any further questions!

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