Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 112486H) is a Diploma delivered by Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work in the community services sector, providing support to individuals, groups, and communities. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider 02938M), it meets Australian government standards for international students. The course is offered at two Queensland campuses: Southport (Gold Coast) and Brisbane. With a strong focus on practical skills and industry placement, graduates are prepared for roles such as community services worker, case worker, or support coordinator. The indicative total cost is A$22,500, and entry requires IELTS 5.5-6.0. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – a free resource from HeadStart Academy with no referral fees.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 112486H) is a Diploma delivered by Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture (090501 Social Work). It equips students with the skills to provide case management, advocacy, and support to diverse clients. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02938M) is a private provider with two Queensland campuses. The course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (200 hours), giving students real-world experience. As an international student, you are protected under the ESOS Act, which guarantees your rights and tuition protection.
Graduates of Diploma of Community Services develop competencies in human welfare studies and services. Key learning areas include case management, counselling, community development, and ethical practice. Students learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and work within legal and policy frameworks. The curriculum typically covers topics such as trauma-informed care, mental health support, and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Practical skills are emphasised through the 200-hour industry placement. This field prepares graduates for roles in government agencies, non-profits, and community organisations. The VET national code for this course is CHC52021, which aligns with national training standards.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or packaged course. Study mode is typically face-to-face on campus, with possible online components subject to provider policy. Full-time enrolment is required to meet student visa conditions. Students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with visa requirements.
Tuition fee: A$22,000. Non-tuition fees: A$500. Estimated total cost: A$22,500. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by the institution. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single coverage; living expenses – the Department of Home Affairs recommends at least A$21,041 per year; and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd at www.cti.qld.edu.au. Fee schedules may change without notice.
English language proficiency: IELTS overall 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent). Academic requirements: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in a related field may be recognised. For applicants without a qualification, foundation or pathway programs may be available – check with the provider. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution for detailed entry criteria.
Yes – this course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, 25 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This industry placement provides practical experience in community service settings, such as aged care, disability support, or community health organisations. Students apply theoretical knowledge under supervision, developing skills in client assessment, case management, and teamwork. The placement is integral to the qualification and may require a police check or vaccination status. International students must ensure their visa allows work hours; student visas permit 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
This course is delivered at two campuses: CTI Gold Coast City Campus – Southport, QLD (Level 1, 8, 333 Adelaide Street, Brisbane – Brisbane, QLD). Both locations are in major Queensland cities with strong student populations. Brisbane has over 90 CRICOS-registered providers, while Gold Coast has about 40. Living costs: weekly rent in Brisbane averages A$250–A$400, Gold Coast A$300–A$450. Groceries around A$80–$120 per week. Public transport is available with student concession fares. These campuses offer good access to community service organisations for placements.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain OSHC, meet GTE requirements, and demonstrate financial capacity (tuition + living costs + return airfares). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. At completion, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Always check with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Community Services), and city (Brisbane or Gold Coast). Check provider details on CRICOS. Step 2: Apply directly to Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd – submit an application with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport). Meet entry requirements and deadlines. The institution will issue a Letter of Offer. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you accept the offer and pay deposit, you will receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online. Ensure you have OSHC and financial evidence.
Queensland has a growing demand for community services workers, particularly in aged care and disability sectors. The state has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers offering similar courses. Consider campus location: Brisbane offers a larger job market and more placement options, while Gold Coast has a smaller community but a strong tourism and health sector. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport is reliable, and both cities have student-friendly amenities. Ensure the course includes a work component for hands-on experience. Check if the provider offers career support after graduation.
Ready to take the next step? Request more information or apply directly to Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd. Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses.
View the full Canterbury Technical Institute Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Canterbury Technical 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.