Mental Health Worker Courses
A Mental Health Worker supports individuals with mental health issues by building rapport, maintaining case notes, and developing treatment plans.
AI Exposure
High

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Mental Health Worker
Get qualified to work as a Mental Health Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CHC43315
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and st...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
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CHC43515
Duration
6 months - 18 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
If you’ve lived through mental illness and would like to help others through their own recovery why not consider the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (CHC43515). This nationally recognised training qualification will teach you how to apply your lived experience in mental health to providing recovery oriented mental health services — as either a volunteer or paid worker. The course covers: trauma, drug and alcohol, planning group activities, working with carers, managing personal stressors, work h...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 18 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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CHC53315
Duration
11 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma.
The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package.
Career opportunities
Duration
11 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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CHC53315 & CHC53215
Estimated fee
From $12,995
The CHC53315 & CHC53215 Dual Diploma of Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs provides learners with two nationally recognised qualifications. It develops advanced knowledge and skills for working with clients experiencing co-occurring needs, emphasising professional judgement, ethical decision-making, and evidence-informed practice. Graduates gain broader career pathways and the ability to work across diverse community service settings, preparing them for senior roles that require expertise, adaptabi...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $12,995
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Mental Health Worker.
Common questions

How much do Mental Health Workers earn?
In Australia, a full-time Mental Health Worker generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.

What are the job opportunities for Mental Health Workers?
Mental health is a growing industry and opportunities for Mental Health Workers are expected to increase over the coming years. It was estimated that the industry would increase by 22,000 roles between the years 2018 and 2023, which means about 4,400 additional roles are opening up each year. The majority of these roles are in healthcare, education and training, and public administration and safety.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Mental Health Worker?
To become a Mental Health Worker, you will need to complete a relevant qualification. Options include Certificate IV in Mental Health or a Diploma of Mental Health, with each course taking 12 months to complete.
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More information
A Mental Health Worker provides care and assistance to people with mental health issues. The area of mental health is quite broad and can include mental illnesses, substance abuse and mental health problems associated with poverty.
The role of a Mental Health Worker includes building rapport with individuals suffering from mental health issues, writing reports, maintaining case notes, developing treatment plans, and utilising behavioural management strategies.
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