Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 106226A) is a Diploma delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code CHC52015, prepares students for roles in community services, social work, and human welfare. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03217C), Central Australian Institute meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501), equipping graduates with skills to support individuals and communities. With an indicative tuition fee of A$15,000 and non-tuition fees of A$600, the estimated total cost is A$15,600. This page provides comprehensive information on curriculum, entry requirements, work components, delivery locations, and student visa pathways to help you make an informed decision.
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 106226A) is a Diploma delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets rigorous Australian standards. The course is designed for international students seeking to build a career in community services, social work, or human welfare. It covers core competencies in case management, advocacy, community development, and ethical practice. As a VET qualification (CHC52015), it provides a pathway to further study or direct employment in the community sector. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). There are 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia.
This Diploma focuses on Human Welfare Studies and Services (field 090501), part of the Society and Culture broad field. Students learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, coordinate services, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. Typical subjects include community development, case management, mental health support, and working with diverse populations. Graduates gain practical skills for roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare officer. The curriculum emphasises real-world application, with a work component (see below) providing hands-on experience. Note that this is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. For specific syllabus details, contact Central Australian Institute directly.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is delivered in English. This is a single qualification—no dual awards or foundation studies attached. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is required (see entry requirements). Study mode is likely full-time on-campus; confirm delivery methods with the provider. Central Australian Institute offers this course at multiple locations (see delivery locations below). International students should note that student visa (Subclass 500) conditions require satisfactory course attendance and progress.
Tuition fee: A$15,000. Non-tuition fee: A$600. Estimated total: A$15,600. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change. Additional costs NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students; estimate A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by city: in Hobart, weekly rent averages A$200–$300; in Melbourne, A$250–$400. Always confirm current fees with Central Australian Institute before applying. Visit their website for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedules.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is typically expected for Diploma entry. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry; check with Central Australian Institute. Note: Entry requirements are set by the provider and may vary. International students must also meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria and demonstrate financial capacity for the student visa. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Yes, this course includes a work component: 5 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 100 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves industry placement, internship, or clinical placement, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real community service settings. Placements may include NGOs, government agencies, or healthcare facilities. This component is integrated into the course curriculum and must be successfully completed to graduate. International students on Student visas (Subclass 500) have work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The placement is part of the course requirements and not an employment opportunity.
Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd delivers this course at three locations: (1) 45 Murray Street, Hobart – Hobart, Tasmania; (2) Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd – FOOTSCRAY WEST, Victoria; (3) Level 1, 276 Flinders Street, Melbourne – Melbourne, Victoria. Hobart is the capital of Tasmania with a growing international student community and lower living costs compared to mainland capitals. Melbourne is a major education hub with over 150,000 international students, excellent public transport, and diverse cultural opportunities. Footscray West is a suburb of Melbourne, well-connected by train and tram. Each campus offers unique local context; consider your preferred study environment when choosing.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, sufficient English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (check visa conditions). The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects international students, including tuition assurance and refunds. For visa applications, always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Tasmania, Victoria) to find suitable options. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Meet entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Then lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence. Do not purchase travel or accommodation until visa is granted.
Community services is a rewarding field requiring empathy, communication, and problem-solving skills. Consider whether you enjoy working with diverse populations and handling sensitive issues. Australia has a high demand for qualified community services workers, with roles in government, non-profit, and private sectors. Study locations like Hobart offer a relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs, while Melbourne provides vibrant city life and more placement opportunities. Ensure you meet English and academic requirements, and budget for living expenses in your chosen city. CRICOS registration ensures quality, but also check provider reviews and graduate outcomes. Remember, all listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register.
Ready to start your journey in community services? Explore more Diploma courses or contact HeadStart Academy for free guidance. All data sourced from the official CRICOS register.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Australian Institute of Technology 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.