Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 097497A) is a Diploma delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares students for professional roles in community services, including case management, advocacy, and program coordination. With a compulsory work component of 8 weeks (approximately 240 hours), you'll gain hands-on experience in real community settings. The course is offered at multiple locations across Sydney and Adelaide, giving you flexibility in choosing your study environment. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00172B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 097497A) is a 2-year (104 weeks) Diploma program delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited, a private CRICOS-registered provider (00172B). This qualification falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (code 090500), focusing on developing practical skills in client assessment, case management, and community development. The course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 30 hours per week, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in a supervised industry placement. Upon completion, graduates may seek employment in community service organisations, government agencies, or non-profit sectors. The course is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards).
The Diploma of Community Services covers a broad range of topics designed to equip students with the competencies needed to support individuals and communities. Typical learning areas include human development, social welfare policy, case management, legal and ethical frameworks, and community engagement strategies. Students develop skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving within a social justice context. While specific units may vary, the course aims to produce graduates who can work independently and collaboratively in diverse community settings. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it provides a pathway to further study at bachelor level or direct entry into the workforce.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English, and no foundation studies component is included. This is a single qualification course (not part of a dual qualification package). Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments throughout the duration. The CRICOS register confirms the duration as 104 weeks, which includes both academic study and the work placement.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,000, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total cost A$20,000. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, visa application charges, or other personal costs. For current and accurate fee information, always refer to Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited's official website: www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and may change, so we recommend confirming before enrolling.
International students seeking entry to this Diploma typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior educational qualifications should be at a level suitable for AQF Diploma entry, such as completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a certificate IV in a related field. As entry criteria can vary, please check directly with Mercury Colleges for specific requirements. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the standard entry criteria – contact the provider for advice.
This course includes a supervised work component of 8 weeks, at 30 hours per week (approximately 240 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) is typically an industry placement in a community service organisation where students gain practical experience under professional supervision. Placements may involve direct client interaction, case management tasks, or program support activities. Successful completion of the work component is a mandatory requirement for the qualification.
Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited delivers this course at five locations: Level 5 245 Castlereagh St – SYDNEY, NSW; Level 7, 245-247 Castlereagh St – Sydney, NSW; Lvl 1, 12 Butler Road – Hurstville, NSW; Lvls 1 & 2, 245-247 Castlereagh Street – SYDNEY, NSW; and Suite 1, Lvl 4, 68 Grenfell St – ADELAIDE, SA. These sites are in major city centres with excellent public transport links. Sydney alone has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, while Adelaide has 40+, offering a vibrant international student community. Living costs vary: Sydney is more expensive (indicated weekly rent $450–$650), while Adelaide is more affordable ($300–$450). All campuses are in well-connected areas.
To study this Diploma on a student visa, you need a Subclass 500 visa. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses (approx. A$24,505 per year), OSHC health cover, and English proficiency. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and fee refund protections. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to begin your journey: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Mercury Colleges (CRICOS 00172B) is registered for this course. 2) Apply directly to Mercury Colleges – check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts and English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and meet application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – after acceptance, use the CoE to submit a visa application with DHA. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Choosing between these cities? Sydney offers a larger student population (over 200,000 international students) and more job opportunities, but higher living costs. Adelaide is more affordable and has a growing community services sector. Both cities have good public transport connecting you to campuses. Mercury Colleges' locations in Sydney and Hurstville (a suburb of Sydney) provide easy access via trains and buses. Adelaide's campus is in the city centre near Grenfell Street. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. The Diploma of Community Services is relevant in both cities, with strong demand for qualified workers.
Ready to apply? Start by checking your eligibility and contacting Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited at www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au for the latest intake dates and application procedures.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Mercury Colleges Pty. 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.