Graduate Diploma in Community Development (CRICOS course code 059720C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 1 year. This course is designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of community development, social welfare, and human services within an Australian context. Murdoch University, a CRICOS-registered provider (00125J), offers this program at its Murdoch campus in Western Australia. As part of the field of Society and Culture (Human Welfare Studies and Services), graduates develop skills in program planning, community engagement, and policy analysis. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available in Australia, this qualification provides a pathway to rewarding careers in community organisations, government agencies, and not-for-profit sectors. All data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
Graduate Diploma in Community Development (CRICOS 059720C) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) offered by Murdoch University. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international education. It falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). This level of study is designed for graduates who already hold a bachelor's degree or have equivalent professional experience, allowing them to specialise in community development. Murdoch University is a public university located in Murdoch, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia. Perth is home to over 200,000 international students and 15 CRICOS-registered universities, offering a vibrant multicultural study environment.
The Graduate Diploma in Community Development covers key areas of human welfare studies and services, n.e.c. (090599). Students typically explore theoretical frameworks of community development, social policy, project management, participatory research methods, and advocacy. The curriculum emphasises practical skills for working with diverse communities, including Indigenous populations, migrants, and rural areas. Graduates are prepared for roles such as community development officer, program coordinator, or policy advisor. While specific units are set by Murdoch University, this field of education focuses on building capacity within communities to address social issues like poverty, homelessness, and inequality. The course integrates Australian perspectives on social justice and community empowerment, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). It is delivered in English, the sole language of instruction. The course is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award) and does not include foundation studies. It is not a VET program, so there is no national VET code. Students should expect a full-time study load, typically comprising core units and possibly electives. The exact mode of delivery (e.g., on-campus, online, or blended) is determined by Murdoch University and may be subject to change. International students must maintain enrolment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course to comply with their Student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$36,730, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) amount to approximately A$365, bringing the estimated total to A$37,095. Please note: these fees DO NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa and costs roughly A$600–A$800 per year for single cover. Living costs in Perth are estimated at A$21,000–A$27,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. For the most current fee information, always visit Murdoch University's official website. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
For international students, Murdoch University typically requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent for entry into a graduate diploma. The indicative English language requirement is an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Some students may qualify for pathway programs if they do not meet the direct entry requirements – contact Murdoch University for details. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their Student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's official entry criteria and consulting with the university's international admissions team.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students may, however, undertake voluntary work or internships outside of the curriculum. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday periods, provided they meet all visa conditions. Work rights are subject to change, so always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current regulations.
The course is delivered at Murdoch University's main campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. Murdoch is approximately 15 km south of Perth's central business district, accessible by public transport including train and bus services. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and home to around 2.2 million people. The city has a thriving international student community, with over 50,000 international students from various countries. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300–A$450. The campus itself features modern facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study, work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and the ability to bring dependents. Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of English proficiency, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver the course. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for this Graduate Diploma in Community Development at Murdoch University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy's directory to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Western Australia). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – submit your application to Murdoch University, including academic transcripts, English test scores, and any required documentation. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – once you accept the offer, the university issues a CoE, which you use to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Attend a visa interview if required, and ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with its sunny climate, diverse landscapes, and strong economy. Perth, the state capital, is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. The state has 15 CRICOS-registered universities and over 100 providers, offering more than 4,000 courses to international students. The cost of living is moderate compared to eastern capitals: weekly expenses for a single student range from A$400 to A$600. Public transport in Perth includes trains, buses, and ferries, with a student concession card available. International students also benefit from post-study work opportunities, with the Graduate Temporary visa (Subclass 485) allowing graduates to work in Australia for 2–4 years, depending on their qualification level.
Ready to start your journey in community development? Explore Murdoch University's course details and begin your application today.
Graduate Diploma in Community Development is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.