Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 102417D) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking to develop skills in community services, social work, and human welfare. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02634E), Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to overseas students. The course is classified under Field of Education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 090501 Social Work, and aligns with the national VET standard CHC52015. With a focus on practical skills and work-integrated learning, this diploma prepares graduates for roles in community support, case management, and advocacy. Students will study at campuses in Spring Hill (Brisbane) or Melbourne CBD, both well-connected to public transport and student amenities. Australia has over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, making it essential to choose a course that fits your career goals and lifestyle. At HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au), we provide free, data-driven guidance sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 102417D) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades Pty Ltd. The course spans 2 years (104 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The VET national code is CHC52015, reflecting the nationally recognised competency standards for community services workers. This program is registered on CRICOS, Australia's official register for courses available to international students. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights. At HeadStart Academy, we verify that every provider we list is CRICOS-registered — data sourced from the official register as at 1 April 2026.
The Diploma of Community Services falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09) and specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). Graduates at this level typically gain skills in assessing client needs, coordinating services, supporting individuals and communities, and advocating for social justice. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, students can expect to cover topics such as case management, community development, interpersonal communication, legal and ethical frameworks, and working with diverse populations. The course emphasises practical application through a mandatory work component, allowing students to integrate theory with real-world experience. This field is growing in Australia, with community services roles projected to increase due to an ageing population and ongoing social policy initiatives. Understanding the Australian welfare system and cultural competence is a key part of the training.
The Diploma of Community Services is a 2-year program, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification — not a dual or packaged award. No foundation studies are included, so you must meet the entry requirements (including English proficiency) before commencing. The course is delivered full-time, typically with a mix of classroom learning and supervised work placement. Students should plan for a study load of approximately 20 hours per week of classes, plus self-study and assignment work. For international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500), maintaining satisfactory attendance and academic progress is mandatory under visa conditions.
Tuition: A$15,000<br>Non-tuition fees: A$600<br>Estimated total: A$15,600<br><br>These fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades Pty Ltd. They are subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider via their website (http://www.academia21.com) before applying. The following costs are NOT included in the above: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year. Living costs vary by city: in Brisbane, indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$350, while in Melbourne it ranges from A$300–A$450. Additional costs include groceries (A$80–A$150 per week) and public transport (A$30–A$50 per week). Use the Australian Government's Cost of Living Calculator for a personalised estimate.
For international students, the typical English language requirement is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). You may also need to demonstrate prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or completion of a Certificate IV level course. Some providers may have additional prerequisites such as a police check or working with children clearance, as community services roles involve vulnerable populations. Since this course includes a work placement, you may need to meet specific health or background requirements imposed by host organisations. For detailed entry requirements, refer to Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades Pty Ltd's admissions page. Note: Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but if you need to improve your English, consider a general English or EAP program before applying.
Yes — this course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (approximately 400 total hours, though the exact weekly hours are not specified on CRICOS). This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services organisation. It provides hands-on experience in settings like aged care, disability services, family support, or community health centres. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of the course. It allows you to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional networks, and enhance your employability in Australia. International students must ensure that any work (including unpaid placements) complies with their visa conditions.
This course is delivered at two campuses: <br><br>1. **Academia Brisbane** — 41 Raff Street, Spring Hill QLD (Spring Hill, QLD)<br>2. **Academia Melbourne** — Levels 8 & 9, 399 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC (Melbourne, VIC)<br><br>Both locations are in central business districts with excellent public transport access. Brisbane's Spring Hill is near the city centre and the Roma Street transport hub. Melbourne's campus is on Lonsdale Street in the heart of the CBD, close to Flinders Street Station. Brisbane and Melbourne are Australia's two largest student cities, home to hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. Brisbane has a lower cost of living than Melbourne, while Melbourne offers a vibrant cultural scene and diverse student community. Choose the campus that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
To study this Diploma in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and return home; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — maintain health insurance for your entire stay; financial capacity — show you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel; and English proficiency meeting the provider's requirements. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if your skills are in demand. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Both cities offer excellent opportunities for international students. **Brisbane** has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers and a lower cost of living — indicative weekly rent A$250–A$350, with a relaxed lifestyle and warm climate. It is close to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches. **Melbourne** is Australia's cultural capital, with over 500 registered providers, a diverse food scene, and world-class public transport. Weekly rent is higher (A$300–A$450), but the city offers unmatched arts, music, and sporting events. When choosing your campus, consider your preferred environment, budget, and career connections. Both cities have strong community services sectors, with internships available in hospitals, NGOs, and government agencies.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades Pty Ltd:<br><br>**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (02634E) and the course is 102417D.<br>**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit the provider's website (http://www.academia21.com) or contact their admissions team. Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and any other prerequisites. Meet application deadlines (typically 4–6 weeks before intake).<br>**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades 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.