Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management (CRICOS course code 092371M) is an Advanced Diploma delivered by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 6 qualification is designed for individuals seeking management roles in the community services sector, including aged care, disability services, and community health. The course is registered on CRICOS (provider code 03188C) and meets Australian Quality Framework standards. HeadStart Academy provides this resource as a free guide to help international students navigate their study options in Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, you can trust that all data here is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management (CRICOS 092371M) is a one-year program at West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd (WAIFS), located in Perth, Western Australia. This course is classified under Field of Education 080313 – Public and Health Care Administration. It prepares students for leadership positions in community sector organisations, covering topics such as strategic planning, financial management, human resources, and quality improvement. As an Advanced Diploma (AQF Level 6), it is equivalent to a non-university higher education qualification and can articulate into bachelor degree programs at many Australian universities. WAIFS is a private provider with CRICOS registration (03188C) and is located in the Perth CBD, giving students access to the city's vibrant student community. Perth is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and around 50,000 international students, with affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
The Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management covers the practical and theoretical skills needed to manage community services. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, typical areas of study include: managing finances and budgets, leading and managing teams, developing and implementing service delivery strategies, managing risk and compliance, and building stakeholder relationships. The course also emphasises ethical practice and cultural competence, particularly important in Australia's diverse community sector. Graduates are equipped for roles such as community services manager, program coordinator, or team leader in government, non-profit, and private organisations. This course falls under the broad field of Management and Commerce, specifically Public and Health Care Administration, which is a growing sector in Australia due to an ageing population and increasing demand for community-based care.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Tuition is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The program is a single qualification (CHC62015) with a VET national code. Classes are typically held at the Perth campus. International students should be prepared for full-time study (20+ hours per week) and ensure they maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fee: A$9,750<br>Non-tuition fees: A$850 (includes materials, administration, etc.)<br>Estimated total: A$10,600<br><br>Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included in this estimate. The estimated living cost in Perth is around A$21,041 per year for a single student (based on Department of Home Affairs guidance), which includes rent (approx. A$200–300 per week), groceries, transport, and other expenses. For current fee information, always check the provider's website at <a href='http://www.waifs.wa.edu.au'>www.waifs.wa.edu.au</a>. Fees are subject to change and set by the institution. As per the ESOS Act, international students have legal protections regarding fee refunds and course changes.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Academic requirements: Completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, plus relevant work experience or prior study in a related field (e.g., Certificate IV in Community Services). WAIFS may have specific prerequisites – contact the provider for details. Some students may be eligible for pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. Foundation studies are not offered as part of this course. It is recommended to check with the provider for any additional criteria such as police checks or working with children clearances, which may be required for industry placements (though this course has no work component).
No work component – This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in the community sector while studying.
Level 1, 160 Central Arcade, 811 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000 – Perth, Western Australia. This central CBD location is easily accessible by public transport, with the Perth Railway Station and multiple bus routes nearby. Perth's public transport system includes trains, buses, and the free CAT bus network within the city. Studying in Perth offers a relaxed lifestyle with a lower cost of living compared to eastern capitals. The city has a growing student population and a strong job market in health and community services.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and OSHC coverage. You can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
<strong>Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers</strong> – Use HeadStart Academy to find other courses in community sector management or compare providers. Verify that WAIFS holds current CRICOS registration (03188C).<br><br><strong>Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution</strong> – Contact WAIFS for application forms, entry requirements, and deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS, etc.), and any other required documents. Pay attention to application fees and offer timelines.<br><br><strong>Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa</strong> – Once you accept an offer, WAIFS will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online through the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Ready to start your journey? Browse other Advanced Diploma courses in management and commerce on HeadStart Academy, or contact West Australian Institute of Further Studies directly.
View the full West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd profile →
Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at West Australian Institute of Further Studies 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.