Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 097136D) is a Diploma delivered by Lead College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian education standards for international students. Designed for those looking to work in community services, case management, or social welfare, this diploma provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Lead College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03636F) is a private provider with campuses in New South Wales and Western Australia, offering a supportive learning environment. With an indicative total cost of A$32,000 and an English requirement of IELTS 5.5-6.0, this course is an accessible pathway to a rewarding career. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you make informed decisions.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 097136D) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Lead College Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). It falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090500). The VET national code is CHC52015. This course is designed to prepare students for roles in community services, including case work, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available only to international students and is protected under the ESOS Act. Lead College Pty Ltd is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. The diploma level (AQF Level 5) signifies that graduates will have specialised knowledge and skills for paraprofessional work.
The Diploma of Community Services covers topics relevant to human welfare studies and services. Students typically learn about case management, community development, advocacy, and ethical practice. The curriculum may include units on working with diverse populations, trauma-informed care, and legal frameworks. While specific unit outlines are set by Lead College, the field of education (090500 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.f.d.) indicates a broad focus on supporting individuals and communities. Graduates are equipped to work in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and community health settings. This diploma also provides a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in social work or community services.
This course has a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies component). The study mode is typically full-time, delivered through face-to-face classes at Lead College campuses. Students should expect a mixture of theory and practical learning. No work component is included, meaning there is no mandatory work placement as part of the course. However, students may seek part-time work during their studies, subject to their visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Community Services is A$28,000, with non-tuition fees of A$4,000, making an estimated total of A$32,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Lead College. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For example, OSHC can cost around A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs vary by city. We recommend checking Lead College's website for the latest fee schedule.
The indicative English language requirement is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for this level typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV in a related field. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — please confirm with Lead College. All entry requirements are set by the institution and should be verified at the time of application.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship as part of the curriculum. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides opportunities to gain experience and offset living costs.
Diploma of Community Services is delivered at three Lead College campuses: 1) HAYMARKET - LEAD COLLEGE PTY LTD - 841 George St, Haymarket, NSW (near Sydney CBD); 2) Lead - Perth - 15 Leila St, Cannington, WA 6107; 3) Parramatta Lead - 37 George St, Parramatta, NSW. Haymarket and Parramatta are in Greater Sydney, while Cannington is in Perth's southern suburbs. Sydney has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, and Perth has more than 20. Both cities offer vibrant student communities, good public transport, and diverse living options. Sydney's student population exceeds 200,000, while Perth is home to approximately 50,000 international students. Indicative weekly living costs in Sydney are around A$500–A$700 (rent, groceries, transport), and in Perth around A$400–A$600.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, proof of financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights. It is important to maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with visa conditions. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Lead College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (NSW or WA). Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Lead College Pty Ltd to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including your CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Consider using a registered migration agent for guidance.
Australia offers a diverse environment for studying community services. New South Wales, with Sydney as its capital, has a high demand for community service workers due to its large and multicultural population. Western Australia, particularly Perth, also has growing needs in social services. Each state has unique opportunities: NSW has a denser network of NGOs and government agencies, while WA offers a more relaxed lifestyle and potentially lower living costs. When choosing a campus, consider proximity to practical placement opportunities (though this course has no mandatory work component), public transport, and accommodation. Both states have strong support systems for international students, including multicultural communities and student services.
Ready to take the next step? Browse other Community Services courses or start your application to Lead College today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lead 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.