Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 113822M) is a Diploma delivered by Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification, aligned with the national VET standard CHC52021, prepares students for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them, ensuring quality assurance under the ESOS Act. As a student, you'll gain skills to support individuals and communities, working with diverse populations. The course is taught in English and requires a minimum IELTS score of 5.5-6.0. With an indicative total fee of A$36,500, it represents a valuable investment in your future. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Always confirm details with the provider and consult official sources for visa and fee updates.
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This Diploma falls under the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). At this AQF Level 5, students typically learn to apply specialised knowledge and skills in community services work, including case management, program coordination, and client advocacy. The curriculum covers topics such as human rights, social justice, community development, and working with vulnerable groups. Graduates are often prepared for roles like community worker, case worker, or welfare officer. Note that this is a general description of the field; the exact syllabus is determined by Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd. For detailed subject lists, contact the provider directly. The course is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation studies program. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet national standards, ensuring consistent quality across providers.
The Diploma of Community Services is a 2-year program, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, reflecting the communication requirements of the Australian community services sector. This is a single qualification, meaning you receive the Diploma upon completion, with no embedded dual qualification or foundation studies pathway. The study mode is typically full-time classroom-based, but check with Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology for delivery options. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for this course, as recorded on the CRICOS register (April 2026), are as follows: tuition fee A$35,000, non-tuition fee A$1,500, total estimated cost A$36,500. Please note these fees are set by the institution and subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fee information, always visit the Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology website. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport; in Adelaide, costs are slightly lower. The Department of Home Affairs states that students should budget at least A$21,041 per year for living costs. HeadStart Academy recommends comparing fees across providers on the CRICOS register.
Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd sets its own entry requirements for this Diploma. Based on the CRICOS register, the English language requirement is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may accept relevant work experience or a Certificate IV in a related field. If you need to meet English proficiency, consider pathway options such as ELICOS programs. For specific entry criteria, contact the provider directly. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the institution makes the final decision. All CRICOS-registered providers must assess each application individually.
This course has no mandatory work component. That means you are not required to complete a placement, internship, or practicum as part of the qualification. However, some providers may offer optional work opportunities or industry projects. For clarity, check with Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology. Even without a required work component, international students can take advantage of student visa work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain valuable Australian work experience while studying.
The course is delivered at three campuses of Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology: AIBT Melbourne Campus at Level 6, 350 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000; Level 2, 209-211 Lonsdale, Melbourne VIC; and Levels 4 & 5, 127 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students, offering vibrant culture and extensive public transport. Adelaide, with a more affordable cost of living, is home to around 30,000 international students. Both cities have numerous CRICOS-registered providers (Melbourne ~600, Adelaide ~200). When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals. The campuses are conveniently located near transport hubs and student amenities.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during breaks), and bring eligible family members. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs also requires proof of English proficiency. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department for personalised advice. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, come with ESOS Act protections for international students.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology (CRICOS 03133G) is registered to offer this course. HeadStart Academy provides free tools to filter by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to the institution: Submit your application, including academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and intake dates on the provider's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you have OSHC and funds for living expenses. Remember, never guarantee visa outcomes; seek professional advice if needed.
Choosing between Melbourne and Adelaide involves considering lifestyle, cost, and career opportunities. Melbourne has a larger student population (over 200,000) and more diverse social scene, but higher living costs (rent ~$250–$400/week in shared accommodation). Adelaide offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lower costs (rent ~$200–$300/week). Both cities have strong community services sectors. Melbourne's job market is larger, but Adelaide offers a tight-knit professional community. The campuses are in central locations with excellent public transport. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences. HeadStart Academy's location guides can help you decide.
Start your application for Diploma of Community Services today by contacting Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology 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.