Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 092242J) is a Diploma delivered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd over 1 year 11 months (~100 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification focuses on Human Welfare Studies and Services, equipping graduates with skills to support individuals and communities in need. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of them. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive a quality education protected under the ESOS Act. The indicative total fee is A$20,500, with no mandatory work component. The course is delivered at the college's campus in Preston, Victoria. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can study this Diploma and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission, no referral fees — helping you compare courses and plan your study journey in Australia.
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This Diploma of Community Services is designed for students aiming to enter the community services sector. The field of education is 090500 Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.f.d., covering topics such as case management, advocacy, and community development. Graduates may find roles in aged care, disability services, or family support. The course is offered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02933E), a private provider with a focus on aged care and health training. The college is located at 189 Plenty Rd, Preston VIC 3072, easily accessible by public transport from Melbourne's CBD. As a CRICOS-registered institution, it meets Australian Government standards for international student education. Data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — always verify current details with the provider.
The Diploma of Community Services covers a broad range of competencies in human welfare. Students learn to develop and implement community programs, support individuals facing complex needs, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. While specific subjects are set by the provider, typical areas include communication strategies, case coordination, and social justice principles. This AQF Level 5 qualification deepens knowledge from Certificate IV level and prepares for supervisory roles. The CRICOS register lists this course under Society and Culture, reflecting its focus on social services. Graduates are trained to advocate for clients, manage resources, and collaborate with other professionals in the community sector.
The course runs for 1 year 11 months (~100 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is delivered as a single qualification — no dual or foundation studies included. Full-time study is typical for international students to meet visa requirements. The college may offer flexible study options; contact Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College directly for details on timetables and delivery methods. Studying in Preston gives you access to Melbourne's extensive public transport network, with trains and trams connecting the campus to the city centre.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,500, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, making the estimated total A$20,500. These figures are from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the Student visa application charge. International students in Victoria should budget approximately A$400–$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. For the most current fees, visit the provider's website at www.alacchealth.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not charge fees or receive commissions — we provide this information as a free resource.
General entry requirements for this Diploma level typically include completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications in a related field may be recognised. There are no foundation studies attached to this course, so you may need to meet prerequisite levels. Always confirm specific requirements with Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and provide evidence of financial capacity for the student visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with the provider for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. While the Diploma of Community Services often includes practical placement in some institutions, the CRICOS register for this specific course records 'No work component'. That means the program is classroom-based without a required industry placement. However, students may choose to seek voluntary work experience independently. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College's campus: 189 Plenty Rd, PRESTON VIC 3072. Preston is a suburb in Melbourne's north, about 10 km from the CBD. It is well served by trains (Preston station) and trams, making commuting easy. Victoria is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–$600 per week for a single person, covering accommodation, food, and transport. The area has a diverse student population due to proximity to other education institutions.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, providing legal protections such as tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent.
Preston is a vibrant multicultural suburb with excellent amenities. The campus is near shopping centres, parks, and restaurants. Melbourne has a large international student community, with over 200,000 enrolled across various institutions. Public transport from Preston to the city takes about 30 minutes by train. Typical weekly expenses include rent (A$250–$350 for shared housing), groceries (A$100–$150), and transport (A$50–$80). Victoria offers a diverse study environment with access to world-class universities and vocational colleges. Before choosing this location, consider your preferred lifestyle, weather, and proximity to services.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Human Welfare), and location (Victoria). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (02933E). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (IELTS 5.5–6.0, academic qualifications), prepare your documents, and submit an application through the college's website. Deadlines vary — contact the admissions office for specific dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but not migration advice.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd. 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.