Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 113358H) is a Diploma delivered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~103 weeks). This course sits under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090500) and is designed for international students seeking a career in community services, including aged care, disability support, and social welfare. Located in Preston, Victoria, the course combines classroom learning with a mandatory work component, providing practical experience in the Australian community sector. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available nationally, this program offers a pathway to meaningful employment in Australia's growing community services industry. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 113358H) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) offered by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02933E), a private provider specialising in aged care and community services education. The course is delivered over 103 weeks, including a 10-week work placement component. It equips students with skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students and is protected under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$860, bringing the estimated total to A$15,860. However, fees are set by the provider and subject to change; always confirm directly. HeadStart Academy displays this information as a free, independent resource.
This course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090500). Students typically learn about community development, social policy, case management, and working with diverse populations. The curriculum focuses on practical skills for roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. While specific units vary, graduates of AQF Level 5 Diplomas are expected to demonstrate initiative and judgment in planning and coordinating services. The work-integrated learning component (10 weeks, 20 hours per week) provides hands-on experience in aged care facilities or community organisations, helping students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. This practical training is a key feature of the program and meets industry requirements for community service professionals in Australia.
The Diploma of Community Services is a single qualification (no dual award) with a duration of 1 year and 12 months (~103 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and the program includes a mandatory work component. No foundation studies are required. Students attend classes at the provider's campus in Preston, Victoria. The 103-week duration includes both academic sessions and the 10-week work placement, ensuring a balanced learning experience.
The indicative fees for this course are set by Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd and sourced from the CRICOS register. Tuition: A$15,000. Non-tuition fees: A$860 (including materials, administration, etc.). Estimated total: A$15,860. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.alacchealth.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs such as health cover (OSHC), accommodation (rent in Preston averages A$250–A$350 per week for shared housing), groceries (approx. A$80–A$120 per week), and transport (public transport access via Melbourne's train and tram network). These figures are indicative guides only.
As a Diploma-level course, applicants are typically expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. English language proficiency is required, with a recommended IELTS overall band of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Some providers may accept alternative English tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. Specific prerequisites may apply—contact the provider for detailed entry requirements. Foundation or pathway options are not indicated for this course; however, students who do not meet English levels may consider ELICOS programs. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual applications; always consult the institution directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically involves an industry placement or clinical experience in aged care or community service settings. The placement provides students with supervised practical training, enhancing employability and understanding of Australian workplace culture. It is an integral part of the curriculum, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real cases under professional supervision.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 113358H) is delivered at: Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College - CRICOS, 189 Plenty Rd, PRESTON VIC 3072. Preston is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, approximately 9 km north of the CBD. Melbourne is home to over 60 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The campus is accessible via public transport, including the Preston train station and numerous bus routes. Living costs in Preston are moderate, with typical weekly expenses for a single student estimated at A$300–A$450 for rent in shared accommodation, plus A$100–A$150 for food and transport.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring education quality and consumer rights. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Community services is a rewarding yet demanding field. This Diploma offers a pathway to roles such as welfare worker, case manager, or community development officer. In Melbourne, demand for community service workers is steady, with opportunities in government, non-profits, and private organisations. When choosing a course, consider location, provider reputation, work placement opportunities, and alignment with your career goals. This course in Preston provides a suburban campus with access to Melbourne's amenities. Compare with other Diploma courses in the field on HeadStart Academy, which lists all CRICOS-registered options across Australia.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare the Diploma of Community Services with similar courses at other providers in Victoria. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the provider's website (www.alacchealth.edu.au) for entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare financial evidence.
Find your ideal community services course on HeadStart Academy today—compare CRICOS-registered providers and apply with confidence.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australasian Lawrence Aged Care College 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.