Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 107158M) is a Diploma delivered by Signature Training Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for those looking to work in human welfare, social work, and community services. As an international student, you’ll gain skills in case management, advocacy, and program coordination. The course includes a significant work component of 162 hours of industry placement, ensuring real-world experience. Signature Training Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03938C) is a private provider based in New South Wales. Tuition is A$15,300, with no additional non-tuition fees. This course is ideal for students passionate about making a difference in communities. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource – no referral fees, just trusted information.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Diploma falls under the field of Society and Culture (09) with a specialisation in Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). The curriculum typically covers social welfare principles, case management, community development, and ethics. Students learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and support individuals and groups. The course prepares graduates for roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. While specific syllabus details are set by Signature Training, the competency standards align with the VET national code CHC52015. Graduates may also pathway into bachelor-level social work programs. The work component of 162 hours provides practical exposure in real community settings.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 78 weeks (1 year 6 months). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation program. Classes are likely offered in a face-to-face mode at the Camellia Campus in Camellia, NSW. The duration on the CRICOS register is exactly 78 weeks, which includes the work placement component. International students should plan for full-time study to meet visa conditions.
Tuition fee for this course is A$15,300. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. Estimated total cost is A$15,300. Please note: these fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check Signature Training's website at http://www.signaturetraining.edu.au. Living costs in New South Wales vary; for example, rent in Camellia might range from A$250–$400 per week, groceries around A$80–$120, and transport A$30–$50.
For this Diploma level, international students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected may include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options are available – refer to Signature Training for specific entry criteria. Always check the provider's website for exact requirements. Remember, meeting English and academic requirements does not guarantee admission; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 54 weeks at 3 hours per week, totalling approximately 162 hours. This is typically an industry placement or internship where you apply your learning in a real community services setting. Work-integrated learning helps you build practical skills, network with employers, and meet vocational placement requirements. Ensure you have an appropriate visa (Subclass 500) that allows work placements as part of your course.
This course is delivered at the Camellia Campus in Camellia, New South Wales (NSW). Camellia is a suburb of Sydney, approximately 20 km west of the CBD. The campus is accessible by train (Camellia station) and bus. Sydney is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, with a large international student population. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; budget around A$500–$600 per week for accommodation, food, and transport. The campus location offers proximity to community service organisations for work placements.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). As an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion requires you to demonstrate genuine intent to study in Australia. Financial capacity evidence is also required – see the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy’s search tool to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider (Signature Training) is CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines on Signature Training's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you have a CoE, lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
If you are passionate about community welfare and want a hands-on diploma with a strong work placement, the Diploma of Community Services at Signature Training could be a great fit. Consider that Camellia is in Sydney, Australia’s largest city, offering diverse community service opportunities. However, living costs are high. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses – use HeadStart Academy to compare options. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS courses, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Ready to apply? Start your research on HeadStart Academy – compare courses, check CRICOS registration, and apply directly to Signature Training.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Signature Training 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.