Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 109319E) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for students seeking to enter or advance in the community services sector, covering areas such as case management, advocacy, and program coordination. Delivered at two Melbourne locations, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work-integrated learning. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04008D), ACVET meets Australian Government standards for international education. Whether you aim to work in aged care, disability services, or community development, this diploma provides a pathway to in-demand roles across Australia. HeadStart Academy provides this guide based on official CRICOS data, helping you make informed study decisions.
This Diploma of Community Services (109319E) is a national qualification (CHC52015) offered by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd (ACVET), a private CRICOS-registered provider (04008D). The course is classified under the field of education 090515 - Welfare Studies, which focuses on human welfare services. It equips students with skills to support individuals and communities facing social challenges. Over 2 years, participants develop expertise in client assessment, referral pathways, and program implementation. As with all CRICOS courses, this program is protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. HeadStart Academy sources all information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses. This diploma is one of many options for international students interested in society and culture studies in Victoria.
The Diploma of Community Services covers core competencies in welfare studies, including human behaviour, social policy, case management, and community development. Graduates typically learn to work with diverse populations, manage complex cases, and coordinate support services. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) standards, though specific unit offerings are determined by ACVET. Students engage with real-world scenarios, ethical practices, and cultural competency. This field (090515) is designed for those aiming to become community service workers, welfare officers, or program coordinators. Typical topics include communication strategies, advocacy, and trauma-informed care. Practical placements (see Work Component) complement theoretical learning. For a complete list of units, consult the provider's website.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is delivered in English, with a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies component. ACVET offers this diploma in a full-time study mode, likely with a mix of classroom sessions, workshops, and online resources. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. The study load is conducive to balancing work and study, subject to visa work rights. Melbourne's education infrastructure supports students with libraries, study spaces, and public transport. With over 150,000 international students in Victoria, the state offers a vibrant study environment. HeadStart Academy recommends confirming study schedules directly with ACVET.
Indicative fees for this course are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026): Tuition: A$19,500; Non-tuition fees: A$500; Estimated total: A$20,000. These fees are set by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd and are subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,000–25,000 per year for a single student in Melbourne), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Accommodation costs in Melbourne vary: weekly rent for a shared apartment can range from A$200–350, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–50. Always verify current fees on the ACVET website before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees or commissions.
Generally, a Diploma level qualification requires completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) and an IELTS overall band of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) for English proficiency. Some providers may require prior work experience or a certificate IV in a related field. For this specific course, ACVET may have additional prerequisites — refer to their website or contact admissions directly. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not listed for this course, but if you do not meet entry requirements, consider English language courses or a Certificate IV first. Meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is also essential for visa approval. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; always seek professional advice for your specific situation.
This diploma includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks, with approximately 100 total hours of industry placement. This work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real community service settings, such as aged care facilities, disability support organisations, or community health centres. Placements are supervised and designed to meet vocational outcomes. International students must ensure their visa allows for unpaid placements (generally permitted under student visa conditions). This practical experience is invaluable for building Australian workplace skills and networking. ACVET coordinates placements, but students may need to meet specific prerequisites (e.g., police check, vaccinations). Confirm placement details with the provider.
This course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Melbourne Campus in MELBOURNE (the central business district) and Melbourne CBD in DOCKLANDS (a waterfront area near the city centre). Both are in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city with a diverse student population. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, offering thousands of courses. The city has excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses), making campuses accessible. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney; typical weekly expenses for a student are around A$400–600 for rent, food, and transport. The city is known for its cultural diversity, food scene, and student-friendly environment. Check with ACVET for exact campus addresses and facilities.
International students studying this Diploma of Community Services will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course and work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from ACVET, meet English proficiency, and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. You will also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements; HeadStart Academy provides guidance only. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. All CRICOS courses benefit from ESOS Act protections.
Follow these steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy or CRICOS to find providers offering this diploma in Melbourne. Confirm ACVET’s registration (CRICOS 04008D). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any other documents. Pay attention to application deadlines (often rounds for Feb/July intake). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, ACVET issues a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online, attach your CoE, OSHC, and financial evidence. Await approval before travelling to Australia. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you compare options, but we do not process applications. Contact ACVET for specific instructions.
Ready to apply? Follow our step-by-step guide above, or visit the ACVET website for the latest fees and entry requirements.
View the full Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Vocational Education and 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.