Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 112341C) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0903 – Studies in Human Society) and is designed to prepare students for rewarding careers supporting individuals and communities. As a CRICOS-registered qualification (AQF Level 5), it meets Australian standards for international students. The provider, Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04023E), is a private RTO with campuses in Adelaide and Sydney. The indicative tuition fee is A$20,000, with additional costs of A$1,300 total A$21,300. Graduates can work in community organisations, government agencies, or non-profits. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource – no referral fees or commissions. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, which lists 1,556 providers and 26,433 courses for international students. ESOS Act protections apply to all listed institutions.
The Diploma of Community Services covers core competencies in working with people experiencing complex needs, including mental health, disability, homelessness, and family issues. Students learn to design and implement support plans, coordinate services, and advocate for clients. The curriculum aligns with the national VET standard CHC52021, ensuring consistency across providers. As a general guide, graduates develop skills in assessment, referral, and case coordination. The course is delivered through a combination of classroom learning, practical exercises, and possibly simulated work environments. While no mandatory work component is included, some students may choose to undertake voluntary placements to enhance their practical experience. Overall, the course equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to make a positive impact in the community services sector.
The Diploma of Community Services has a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification only, with no dual or foundation studies included. Students should expect a structured timetable with classes held at the provider's campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The course is designed to be completed over two academic years, with typically 40 weeks of study per year. During scheduled breaks, students may work unlimited hours. The mode of delivery is face-to-face at the campuses. It is important for students to attend at least 80% of classes to meet visa requirements. Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd outlines the specific attendance policies in its student handbook. A typical full-time load is 20 hours per week of contact time, plus additional study and assessment preparation.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$20,000. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,300, bringing the total to A$21,300. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd by visiting their website at www.avi.edu.au.
International students need to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should hold a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV. No foundation studies are included; however, the provider may offer pathway options. For detailed entry requirements, contact Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd directly. Some providers may require previous study in a related field or work experience. It is common for Diploma courses to require completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Students who do not meet the academic requirements may consider a Certificate IV as a pathway. Always check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete work placement or internship hours as part of the qualification. However, voluntary work experience in the community services sector can be beneficial and is encouraged. Students should consider seeking part-time employment or volunteering to gain practical experience alongside their studies.
The course is offered at three campuses: two in Adelaide, South Australia, and one in Sydney, New South Wales. The Adelaide campuses are located at Level 6 West, Level 6, 50 Grenfell St, and Level 9, 50 Grenfell St, both in the Adelaide CBD. The Sydney campus is at Level 3, 127 Liverpool St, Sydney. Adelaide has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, while Sydney has over 700, offering a vibrant student community. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than Sydney, with average rent around A$200-250 per week for shared accommodation, compared to A$300-400 in Sydney. Public transport is accessible to both campuses.
Both Adelaide and Sydney offer excellent opportunities for international students. Adelaide is known for its affordable cost of living, with average weekly rent around A$200-250 for shared accommodation, and a compact city centre easy to navigate. Sydney is larger and more cosmopolitan, with higher living costs but more diverse cultural experiences. Consider your budget, preferred lifestyle, and proximity to community services networks when choosing. Adelaide has several community health and welfare organisations, while Sydney offers a broader job market. Ultimately, both cities provide access to quality education and a welcoming environment.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. It is important to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, ensuring students receive quality education. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Diploma of Community Services at Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd involves three key steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free search to find courses by field, level, and location. Confirm that the institution is CRICOS-registered.
2. Apply directly to Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd: Meet the entry requirements, provide English test results, and submit your application before the deadline. Contact the provider for application forms and procedures.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
HeadStart Academy does not handle applications; always apply directly to the institution.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Virtus Institute 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.