Thinking of studying community services in Australia? The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 113485A) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification equips you with skills to support individuals and communities facing various challenges, aligning with Australia's growing demand for qualified community service workers. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets national standards and allows international students to study on a student visa. HeadStart Academy provides unbiased information sourced from the official CRICOS register, ensuring you have accurate data to make informed decisions.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 113485A) is a Diploma level qualification (AQF Level 5) offered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03222F). The course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services. Over 2 years, students gain practical knowledge in case management, advocacy, and community development. This course is ideal for those seeking to work in community services, aged care, disability support, or social housing. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this diploma is fully registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students.
While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates at this level typically learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, coordinate services, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The field of Human Welfare Studies and Services covers topics like social policy, community development, and interpersonal skills. You'll be prepared for roles that require problem-solving, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work with diverse populations. The VET national code for this course is CHC52021.
The Diploma of Community Services is a 2-year program (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at one of the three delivery locations in New South Wales. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration is structured to meet visa requirements, allowing you to maintain full-time study status.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$28,000 for the entire course, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$5,000 (including materials, administration, and other costs). The estimated total is A$33,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider on their official website: http://www.ahsi.edu.au. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Typical English language requirement is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). You are expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12. Prior experience in community services may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway options may be available through the provider — check directly. For visa purposes, you must meet financial and GTE requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Related work experience can be beneficial for future employment in the community services sector.
The course is delivered at three campuses in New South Wales. Blacktown is a major suburb in Western Sydney with a large student population and affordable living costs. Lithgow is a regional city in the Central Tablelands, offering a quieter lifestyle with lower rent. Surry Hills is an inner-city suburb of Sydney, close to the CBD, with excellent public transport and higher living expenses. All sites are accessible by public transport. When choosing a location, consider your budget and lifestyle. Sydney's cost of living is higher than regional areas: indicative weekly rent in Sydney is $350–$600, while Lithgow may be $200–$350. Groceries and transport add $150–$250 weekly in cities.
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. You'll also need to demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependants if applicable. ESOS Act protections apply to this course, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Check the provider's CRICOS registration (03222F) and course details. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application via the provider's website. Meet entry requirements (English test scores, qualifications). Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you receive your CoE, lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC.
New South Wales has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Sydney offers more than 70,000 international students, while regional areas like Lithgow provide a more affordable and close-knit community. Consider public transport access: Blacktown has train connections to Sydney CBD, Surry Hills is walkable to Central Station, and Lithgow has bus and train services. Living costs vary significantly, so factor in rent, food, and transport. This flexibility allows you to choose an environment that fits your study and lifestyle preferences.
Ready to start your community services journey? Use our guide to apply directly to Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd. For current fees and deadlines, visit their website at http://www.ahsi.edu.au.
View the full Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Health and Science 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.