Certificate IV in Mental Health

Modification history

Release	Comments
Release 3	Release 3 Supersedes and is equivalent to CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health release 2. Minor change to update First Aid units of competency.
Release 2	This version was released in CHC Community Services Training Package release 3.0. Units of competency updated (see mapping at www.cshisc.com.au). Equivalent outcome.
Release 1	This version was released in CHC Community Services Training Package release 2.0 and meets the requirements of the 2012 Standards for Training Packages. Change in packaging rules. Significant changes to core units. Minimum work requirement of 80 hours.

Release

Comments

Release 3

Release 3 Supersedes and is equivalent to CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health release 2. Minor change to update First Aid units of competency.

Release 2

This version was released in CHC Community Services Training Package release 3.0.

Units of competency updated (see mapping at www.cshisc.com.au).

Equivalent outcome.

Release 1

This version was released in CHC Community Services Training Package release 2.0 and meets the requirements of the 2012 Standards for Training Packages.

Change in packaging rules. Significant changes to core units. Minimum work requirement of 80 hours.

Qualification description

This qualification reflects the role of workers who provide self-directed recovery oriented support for people affected by mental illness and psychiatric disability. Work involves implementing community based programs and activities focusing on mental health, mental illness and psychiatric disability. Work is undertaken in a range of community contexts such as community based non-government organisations; home based outreach; centre-based programs; respite care; residential services, rehabilitation programs; clinical settings; or supporting people in employment. Work is carried out autonomously under the broad guidance of other practitioners and professionals.

To achieve this qualification, the candidate must have completed at least 80 hours of work as detailed in the Assessment Requirements of units of competency.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.

Packaging rules

Total number of units = 15

11 core units
4 elective units, consisting of:
- at least 2 units from the electives listed below, including at least 1 unit from the At Risk group below
- up to 2 units from any endorsed Training Package or accredited course – these units must be relevant to the work outcome

All electives chosen must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.

Course Duration

52 WEEKS

Delivery Method

face to face /online/ self-paced

Common Job Titles

Mental Health Support Worker: Provide recovery-oriented support to individuals living with mental illness in community or residential settings.
Mental Health Intake Officer: Act as the first point of contact, triaging referrals and assessing risk levels for therapeutic teams.
Community Rehabilitation Worker: Assist clients in achieving goals like returning to employment, independent living, or education.
Case Manager / Worker: Coordinate various support services and advocate for clients to ensure they receive appropriate care.

Top Industries

Community-Based NGOs: Working within non-profit organizations to deliver outreach and center-based programs.
Government & Clinical Services: Roles in public health departments, clinical settings, or employment support services.
Residential & Respite Care: Providing on-site support in rehabilitation programs or residential facilities.

Growth & Pay

Starting Salary: Approximately $68,600 – $82,000 AUD for full-time roles in 2026.
Next Step: Upgrade to a Diploma of Mental Health or a Diploma of Community Services to advance into team leadership or specialized practice.