How Long Does Certificate IV in Leadership and Management Take?

Quick Answer

The Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520) typically takes 12–18 months to complete. It is an AQF Level 4 qualification that costs around $1,970. Graduates gain essential leadership skills, a nationally recognised credential, and access to career opportunities with average salaries of $60,000–$100,000.

$1,970 Course Cost
12–18 Months Duration
$60K–$100K Salary Range

Career Opportunities

  • Team Leader
  • Supervisor
  • Manager

Why Students Ask This Question

Learners commonly wonder about duration because:

  • Time constraints: Balancing work, study, and personal life requires clarity on how long the course runs.
  • Cost concerns: Longer courses may cost more, or extend living expenses.
  • Flexibility needs: Working professionals often need tailored study schedules.
  • Funding and subsidies: Government support eligibility often depends on course length.
  • Recognition and outcomes: Students want efficient pathways to career advancement.
  • Career urgency: They may seek a qualification soon for promotions or new roles.

Key Facts at a Glance (2025)

  • Duration: Typically 12–18 months; some full-time one-semester options exist
  • Cost (indicative): Varies by provider – around $1,970 with private RTOs (e.g. Vanguard), and $2,500–$4,600 with TAFE institutions (2025 full-fee)
  • AQF Level: Level 4 qualification
  • Units: 12 units: 5 core + 7 electives (packaging rules apply)
  • Study Modes: Online, blended, classroom, workplace/apprenticeship models
  • Student Support: Tutor support, forums, workshops, RPL options
  • Career Outcomes: Team Leader, Supervisor, Coordinator, Office Manager

Deeper Explanation

Qualification Code & AQF Level
The nationally recognised qualification is BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management, aligned with AQF Level 4 and intended for first-line supervisory roles.

  • Qualification: BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management
  • AQF Level: Level 4 (first-line supervision / team leadership)
  • Typical Duration: 12–18 months (provider and study pace dependent)
  • Recognition: Nationally recognised across Australian industries

Source: training.gov.au – BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management

Who It Suits

This course suits:

  • Aspiring or newly appointed supervisors or team leaders.
  • Individuals already performing leadership duties seeking formal recognition.
  • People targeting career progression without committing to a diploma.

Delivery Models

  • Online: Self-paced with virtual tutorials (e.g., TAFE Queensland, Swinburne University).
  • Blended: Combines online study with scheduled on-campus sessions (e.g., TAFE SA, Wodonga TAFE).
  • Classroom: Traditional face-to-face sessions across TAFE institutions.
  • Workplace / Apprenticeship: Customised delivery while employed, often via traineeship models (e.g., TAFE Queensland, TAFE SA).
  • One-semester full-time: Institutions like CIT offer a one-semester option (~17 hours/week plus self-study).

Duration Examples

  • TAFE QLD: Up to 18 months
  • TAFE SA: Approx. 12 months (full-time/part-time equivalent)
  • CQUni: Full-fee ~12 months training + breaks (52 weeks total)
  • ACCM: Standard part-time up to 42 weeks (~10 months), with faster pace possible

Graduate Outcomes

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER, 2023), graduates of Certificate IV qualifications in Australia achieve strong career results:

  • Employment: Over 89% of graduates are employed within 6 months.
  • Pay Rise: Average 15–25% salary increase within the first 12 months.
  • Workplace Skills: Over 90% report significant improvement in leadership capability.
  • Recognition: Nationally portable qualification accepted across all industries and states.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management are well-placed for a range of supervisory and management positions across industries:

  • Team Leader: $60k–$90k
  • Supervisor: $70k–$100k
  • Office Manager: $75k–$95k
  • Customer Service Manager: $70k–$95k
  • Project Coordinator: $65k–$90k

Salaries vary by industry and location, but these figures reflect the typical earning potential of graduates stepping into leadership roles.

Next Steps

The evidence is clear — Certificate IV in Leadership and Management delivers strong career and salary outcomes.

The question is: are you ready to take the next step?

If you're looking for a flexible, affordable option, Vanguard Business Education makes it simple to get started.
Enrol today for $1,970 and get:
  • Instant access — start now
  • SmartCoach™ 24/7 support
  • Flexible 12–18 month self-paced study
  • Nationally recognised BSB40520 qualification
👉 Enrol Now for $1,970

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management worth it?
✅ Absolutely. This qualification is one of the most popular stepping stones into leadership roles in Australia. It provides you with nationally recognised skills in communication, team management, problem-solving, and workplace planning.

Graduates report:
  • Better career prospects: Many move from team member roles into supervisor or manager positions.
  • Pay increases: On average, Certificate IV graduates see a 15–25% salary rise within the first year.
  • Confidence: You’ll have a structured framework for leading people, not just relying on “learning on the job.”
If you want to progress in your career without committing to a full diploma, this is an excellent option.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary by provider and funding options:
  • Vanguard Business Education: $1,970 (2025 full-fee).
  • TAFE Queensland: Around $4,490 (2025 full-fee).
  • CQUniversity: Around $4,632 (2025 full-fee).
Government subsidies, employer-sponsored traineeships, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may reduce the cost further. At Vanguard, we also provide payment plans so you can spread the cost of study.
How long does it take?
Most students complete the course in 12–18 months, depending on their pace and delivery model.

- Some providers offer accelerated full-time options (~12 months). - Part-time or workplace-based delivery may extend closer to 18 months.

At Vanguard, our flexible self-paced study lets you move faster if you have the time, or take it slower if you’re balancing work and family.
What jobs can I get with this qualification?
Graduates typically move into first-line management or supervisory positions, such as:
  • Team Leader
  • Supervisor
  • Office Manager
  • Customer Service Manager
  • Project Coordinator
These roles span industries such as healthcare, retail, finance, government, and construction, making the qualification versatile and portable.
Can I study while working full-time?
✅ Yes. In fact, most Certificate IV students are working professionals who study part-time. You’ll typically need 5–8 hours per week, which can be spread across evenings or weekends.

The self-paced online format makes it easy to balance with work and family commitments. Many employers also support staff completing this qualification, especially when it directly benefits the workplace.
Do I need prior experience to enrol?
Not necessarily. The course is suitable for:
  • Aspiring leaders looking to step up.
  • New supervisors or coordinators who want a formal qualification.
  • Experienced workers already performing leadership duties who want official recognition.
Basic literacy, numeracy, and computer skills are required, but you don’t need to hold another qualification to get started.
Will this qualification help me get into higher study?
Yes. Completing Certificate IV in Leadership and Management can provide credit pathways into higher qualifications such as:
  • Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420)
  • Bachelor of Business (depending on credit transfer arrangements)
It’s a strong stepping stone if you want to keep progressing academically.