Instructor Development Course (IDC)
PADI Instructor Development Course · Sydney
Become a PADI Dive Instructor in Sydney
Prepare for the PADI Instructor Examination with online preparation, seven days of practical training and EFR Instructor training, supported by experienced Course Directors.
A$4,134 for training and required materials. A$1,852.20 in PADI fees is additional.
Availability: In Stock
PADI Instructor Development Course in Sydney
Turn your Divemaster experience into teaching skills. The Abyss IDC develops your classroom, pool and open-water teaching and prepares you for the PADI Instructor Examination (IE).
- 7-day Sydney IDCOnline preparation comes first; the IE follows.
- EFR Instructor includedTraining and required IDC materials in one package.
- Course Director supportPractical coaching and feedback throughout.
Your IDC costs
The Abyss training and materials package is A$4,134. PADI fees are paid separately and are included in the total below.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| IDC + EFR Instructor training | A$2,934 |
| Required materials Crew pack, slates and backpack | A$1,200 |
| All PADI fees | A$1,852.20 |
| Total training, materials and fees | A$5,986.20 |
Also included with your training
- Scuba tank hire and air fills.
- Rescue and core skills workshops.
- Course Director and instructor-development team support.
- Career guidance and preparation support materials.
Plan separately for
Personal diving and safety equipment, your dive medical, professional liability insurance, accommodation, meals, travel, visas and living expenses.
Sydney IDC dates
January 2027 intake
| Online preparation | –6–9 pm each evening |
|---|---|
| Sydney IDC | –EFR Instructor training on 3 February |
| PADI Instructor Examination | Starts |
Allow time for the online preparation and the IE as well as the seven-day IDC. Confirm your complete timetable and examination arrangements with us before booking travel.
Why complete your IDC with Abyss?
- Learn at a PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center. Train within an established Sydney dive centre.
- Learn from experienced professionals. Course Directors, Master Instructors and IDC Staff provide practical coaching and different teaching perspectives.
- Build confidence for your next step. Develop your skills through workshops, feedback and career guidance.
The internationally recognised PADI teaching system gives you a structured foundation for teaching divers and continuing your professional development.
Learn to teach with confidence
Teaching presentations
- Knowledge development.
- Confined-water teaching.
- Open-water teaching.
Instructor knowledge
- PADI Standards and Procedures.
- Dive theory and IE preparation.
- Risk management and diver safety.
Professional skills
- Evaluate students.
- Debrief students.
- Student management in confined and open water.
What you can teach after the IDC and IE
After passing the IE and meeting PADI’s certification and teaching-status requirements, you can teach:
- Discover Scuba Diving, Bubblemaker and Seal Team.
- Scuba Diver and Open Water Diver.
- Adventure Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver.
- Rescue Diver and Divemaster.
- Peak Performance Buoyancy.
- PADI AWARE, Coral Reef Conservation and Dive Against Debris specialties.
With your EFR Instructor qualification, you can also teach CPR and first aid.
What you need to start
- Age 18 or over.
- PADI Divemaster, Assistant Instructor or a qualifying equivalent leadership rating.
- At least six months since your first diver certification.
- At least 60 logged dives for IDC entry.
- Qualifying first aid and CPR completed within the past 24 months.
- Physician-signed medical clearance within the past 12 months.
Your Course Director checks your experience and confirms any preparation or dive-building needed for the examination and certification stages.
How the IDC process works
- Confirm your eligibility, preparation needs and dates with Abyss.
- Complete your online preparation and theory review.
- Attend the seven-day Sydney IDC, including EFR Instructor training.
- Complete the PADI IE and certification requirements.
Optional internship upgrades
An internship adds mentored teaching, practical dive-centre experience and career support around your instructor training.
- OWSI Internship: 6–10 weeks, with additional experience to build your confidence as an instructor.
- OWSI + MSDT Internship: 6–11 weeks, adding five Specialty Instructor ratings and experience towards the MSDT requirements.
Durations depend on your starting dive numbers. MSDT development is offered through the combined internship.
Hear from our graduates
Questions before you book
Do I need to be an EFR Instructor before I start?
No. EFR Instructor training is included in the package. You still need qualifying first aid and CPR training completed within the past 24 months.
Can I start the IDC with 60 logged dives?
Yes, if you meet the other IDC entry requirements. Starting the IDC and qualifying for the IE are separate stages. We review your logbook and confirm any additional diving and examination requirements with you.
What should I arrange if I’m travelling to Sydney?
Abyss is based in Ramsgate. Arrange accommodation, travel, your medical and personal equipment, and allow for the IE after the IDC. We can suggest nearby accommodation options.
International candidates should check their visa conditions and any planned work with the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Am I qualified to teach as soon as I finish the IDC?
You must also pass the PADI Instructor Examination and meet PADI’s certification and teaching-status requirements. Your Course Director guides you through the next steps. Career support is included; employment is not guaranteed.
Preparing for your IDC? View pool skills videos
Review clear, controlled demonstrations before your training.
Ready to plan your IDC?
Choose your course date or ask our team to check your experience and preparation.
Email internships@abyss.com.au or call (02) 9583 9662.
Still have a question?
Ask the IDC assistant, or contact the team for advice about your own pathway.
Ask the IDC assistant
Trusted by Sydney divers ){kind=link}