Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 093809M) is a Diploma delivered by Box Hill Institute over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification equips graduates to work in community services, supporting individuals and groups through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 02411J), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Box Hill Institute is a government-run TAFE with campuses in Box Hill and Lilydale, Victoria. The course includes a substantial work placement of 406 hours, providing real-world experience. This page is a free resource from HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) – we do not charge referral fees. All data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 093809M) is a Diploma delivered by Box Hill Institute over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and falls under the field of Society and Culture (0905 – Human Welfare Studies and Services). Graduates are prepared for roles such as community service manager, case coordinator, or team leader in welfare organisations. Box Hill Institute (CRICOS 02411J) is a government-owned TAFE institution with a strong reputation in vocational education. The course is available only as a single qualification (no dual or foundation pathway). Instruction is in English. As with all courses listed on HeadStart Academy, this program is CRICOS-registered, meaning it meets Australian Government quality assurance for international students. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses – every course on this site is verified against that register.
The Diploma of Community Services covers advanced skills in human welfare studies and services. Students learn to design and deliver person-centred services, manage case loads, coordinate service delivery, and advocate for clients. The curriculum typically includes modules on legal and ethical frameworks, community development, crisis intervention, and managing workplace safety. While HeadStart Academy does not publish specific syllabus details, graduates at this level are expected to apply theoretical knowledge to complex, non-routine situations. The course is classified under broad field 09 (Society and Culture) and narrow field 090599 (Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.). This aligns with careers in social welfare, community health, and non-profit organisations. For a full list of units, refer to Box Hill Institute's official website.
The Diploma of Community Services runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded in the CRICOS register. The program is delivered in English across two campuses: Box Hill (465 Elgar Rd) and Lilydale (1 Jarlo Dr). It is a single qualification – no double degree or foundation component. The course includes a mandatory work component of 29 weeks at 14 hours per week (406 hours total). This work-integrated learning is an integral part of the study program, typically involving industry placement, internships, or community service projects. Students should plan for a full-time study load. As with all student visa holders, attendance and course progress requirements apply under ESOS Act protections.
Tuition for Diploma of Community Services is an indicative A$24,802 for the entire 78-week program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 (but may include materials or administrative charges – confirm with Box Hill Institute). Estimated total: A$24,802. Important: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Victoria: Melbourne's median weekly rent for a shared apartment is approximately A$250-350; groceries around A$80-120 per week; and public transport concession about A$30 per week. Budget at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (Department of Home Affairs guideline). Always verify current fees on Box Hill Institute's website (www.boxhill.edu.au). Fees are subject to change.
The Diploma of Community Services recommends an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants typically need a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV in a related field. Box Hill Institute may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options: If you do not meet academic entry, you may complete a Certificate IV in Community Services or a general English program before entry. Check with the provider for specific prerequisites. All requirements are set by the institution and are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility – contact Box Hill Institute directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 29 weeks, 14 hours per week (approximately 406 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning placement, likely in a community service organisation such as a welfare agency, aged care facility, or NGO. The placement provides hands-on experience applying case management, client assessment, and advocacy skills. Under the ESOS Act, work placements that are a compulsory part of the course count toward your study program. Student visa holders can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The placement may be arranged by Box Hill Institute or undertaken independently with approval.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: Box Hill Institute of TAFE (465 Elgar Rd, Box Hill VIC) and Lilydale Lakeside Campus (1 Jarlo Dr, Lilydale VIC). Box Hill is a major suburb east of Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport via train and bus. Lilydale is in the Yarra Valley, about 40 km east of Melbourne, also accessible by train. The state of Victoria has over 160 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Melbourne itself is Australia's second-largest student city, with more than 250,000 international students. Both campuses are well-serviced by public transport, and living costs in outer suburbs like Lilydale may be lower than inner Melbourne.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and course progress, hold OSHC, and comply with work restrictions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement – demonstrating genuine intention to study in Australia. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). OSHC costs vary but expect around A$600-800 per year for single cover. Financial capacity must cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year), and travel. The Department of Home Affairs recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – we provide general guidance only.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare Diploma of Community Services across Australia. Filter by location, tuition, and duration. Box Hill Institute (02411J) is a government TAFE with a strong track record. 2. Apply directly to Box Hill Institute: Check entry requirements (IELTS 5.5-6.0, academic prerequisites, and any foundation options). Submit your application with certified documents, English test scores, and evidence of financial capacity. Deadlines vary – apply early. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, Box Hill Institute issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application. Ensure you have OSHC, meet GTE, and show sufficient funds. The Department of Home Affairs provides all visa forms online. Consult a MARA agent if needed.
Ready to apply? Check the latest entry requirements on Box Hill Institute's website and start your journey with a CRICOS-registered course.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Box Hill Institute. 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.