Diploma of Counselling and Communication Skills (CRICOS course code 094183K) is a Diploma delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for students who want to build foundational skills in counselling, communication, and human welfare. Graduates are prepared for roles such as support worker, case worker, or community services officer, with pathways to further study in psychology or social work. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. Torrens University Australia Limited (CRICOS 03389E) is a private institution with a strong focus on industry-engaged learning. The course includes a 120-hour work placement, giving you real-world experience before graduation. Located in Surry Hills, Sydney, this programme offers a vibrant study environment in Australia's largest city. Whether you're aiming to start a career in counselling or advance your current skills, this diploma provides a solid foundation.
The Diploma of Counselling and Communication Skills (094183K) is a 1-year (52-week) diploma at AQF Level 5, delivered by Torrens University Australia Limited. It falls under the field of Education: Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, 090513 - Counselling). The course is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03389E), it is approved for international student enrolment under the Australian Government's quality framework. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this diploma is one of them. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare courses and providers without any referral fees.
This diploma covers the core principles of counselling and communication, including active listening, empathy, ethical practice, and client assessment. Students learn to apply counselling theories in diverse settings, such as community health, aged care, or mental health support. The curriculum typically includes units on human development, cultural awareness, grief and loss, and case management. While HeadStart Academy does not provide an official syllabus, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate skills in facilitating client sessions, maintaining professional boundaries, and working within legal and ethical frameworks. The course also emphasises self-reflection and personal development, crucial for effective counselling practice.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Counselling and Communication Skills has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification; there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Study modes may vary — full-time on-campus is typical. You should confirm the exact timetable and delivery format with Torrens University Australia Limited directly. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$29,330, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$29,330. Please note: course fees shown are indicative only and are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Torrens University Australia Limited and are subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying. This amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees and any scholarships, visit Torrens University's website at www.torrens.edu.au. Living costs in Sydney are approximately A$600–$900 per week for rent, food, and transport, depending on your lifestyle.
Entry requirements for this diploma are set by Torrens University Australia Limited. As a general guide, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 or equivalent. Prior qualifications such as a high school certificate (Australian Year 12 or equivalent) are expected for AQF Level 5 entry. Some students may enter via pathway programs or foundation studies if they do not meet direct entry requirements — check with the provider for options. HeadStart Academy does not set or verify entry requirements; always contact Torrens University for precise conditions. Remember, meeting academic entry requirements does not guarantee a student visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 12 weeks of placement at 10 hours per week (totalling approximately 120 hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) is typically an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community service or counselling setting. It allows you to apply classroom theory in real-world environments, build professional networks, and gain confidence. Placements are arranged by the provider, but you may need to meet certain prerequisites (e.g., police check, vaccinations). The work component is a credit-bearing part of the course and must be completed to graduate.
This course is delivered at Torrens University Australia Limited's campus at 1-37 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010. Surry Hills is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, close to Central Station and well-connected by public transport. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and hosts numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with shared rental accommodation typically costing A$250–$400 per week. The campus is near cafes, libraries, and community health centres, making it convenient for study and placements. If you're considering studying in New South Wales, explore other diploma options on our /study/diploma/nsw page.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain this visa, you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Torrens University Australia Limited, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. For detailed visa guidance, refer to the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund protections.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Counselling and Communication Skills at Torrens University Australia Limited: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to verify providers like Torrens University (CRICOS 03389E). Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Counselling), and city (Sydney). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application through Torrens University's admissions portal. You may need to provide certified documents and a personal statement. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Ready to take the next step? Follow the three-step application process above or visit Torrens University's website to apply directly. For more information on student visas, check our Student Visa (Subclass 500) guide.
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Diploma of Counselling and Communication Skills is a CRICOS-registered programme at Torrens University Australia Limited. 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.