Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 113451M) is a Diploma delivered by Everest Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and belongs to the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090515). It equips international students with the skills to support individuals and communities in need, preparing them for roles in social work, case management, and community development. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring students receive quality training and legal protections under the ESOS Act.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 113451M) is a 2-year program offered by Everest Institute of Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03374A), a private provider based in Victoria. The course is designed to develop students' expertise in welfare studies, including case management, advocacy, and community outreach. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, the program includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (400 hours) of industry placement. Graduates are prepared for roles such as community service worker, welfare officer, or case coordinator. The CRICOS registration guarantees that the course meets Australia's rigorous quality standards for international students.
This diploma covers the principles and practices of community services, including human behaviour, social policy, and ethical practice. Students learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, and work collaboratively with other professionals. The curriculum aligns with the national training package CHC52021, ensuring that skills are recognised across Australia. While specific units are set by the provider, typical areas of study include communication, diversity, trauma-informed care, and legal frameworks. Graduates emerge with the competence to work in diverse settings such as non-profits, government agencies, and healthcare.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). This structure allows international students to immerse themselves fully in the Australian education system while meeting the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The duration aligns with standard CRICOS registration, ensuring students have ample time to complete both coursework and the work-integrated learning component.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Community Services are as follows:
These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Everest Institute of Education Pty Ltd. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Students should budget approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for living costs in Melbourne, including rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees with the provider at www.everest.edu.au.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and successful completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. Prior study in a related field may be beneficial but is not always required. As this is a diploma level, students are expected to have foundational academic skills. Everest Institute may also require a pre-training assessment or interview. Foundation studies are not offered as part of this course – if you need additional English or academic preparation, contact the provider directly for pathway options.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 400 total hours). This practical experience allows students to apply classroom learning in real community service settings, such as aged care facilities, disability support organisations, or community health centres. Placements are supervised and designed to build professional confidence and networks. The work hours count towards the course duration and are factored into the CRICOS registration, ensuring compliance with student visa work conditions.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at the King Street Campus in West Melbourne, VIC. Melbourne is home to over 800 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community of more than 200,000. Living costs in Melbourne average A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for shared accommodation, food, and transport. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trams and trains, making it accessible from most suburbs. Studying in Victoria offers exposure to a diverse job market, with strong demand for community services professionals.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a leading destination for international students in welfare studies. The state has a high concentration of community service organisations, offering ample placement opportunities and job prospects. Melbourne is known for its multicultural environment, which is ideal for students aspiring to work with diverse populations. However, the cost of living is higher than in some other Australian cities. Consider your budget and career goals – Victoria is excellent for networking and hands-on experience, but other states like Queensland or South Australia may offer lower living costs. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses across states.
To study this diploma, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion – demonstrate genuine intention to study and return home. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory health insurance for international students. - Financial capacity – evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. - Work rights – up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. - Compliance with ESOS Act – your provider must be CRICOS-registered (Everest Institute is). Visa decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs. For personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to enrol at Everest Institute of Education Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Welfare Studies), and location (VIC). Confirm that Everest Institute (CRICOS 03374A) is a good fit.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the Everest Institute website at www.everest.edu.au. Check entry requirements, arrange an English test if needed, and submit your application before the deadline.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. With that, apply for your visa online at homeaffairs.gov.au, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Ready to start your journey? Visit the Everest Institute of Education website for application details, or use HeadStart Academy to compare more CRICOS-registered courses in community services.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Everest Institute of Education 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.