Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114134E) is a Diploma delivered by Crown Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for students who want to work in community services, supporting individuals and groups in areas like aged care, disability services, and social welfare. With a mandatory work component of 432 hours, graduates gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. The course is delivered at three locations: Belconnen ACT, Hurstville NSW, and Sydney CBD. Whether you're an international student seeking to make a difference in Australian communities or looking to advance your career, this diploma offers a pathway to meaningful work. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and the provider is registered under CRICOS 02870D.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 114134E) is a nationally recognised qualification under the CHC52021 VET national code. It falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' and specifically '090507 - Care for the Aged,' equipping graduates with skills to assess client needs, coordinate services, and implement community programs. This 2-year (104 weeks) program is delivered in English by Crown Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (02870D). The course includes a mandatory 18-week work component (432 hours) where students engage in industry placement, gaining hands-on experience in aged care or community service settings. The indicative total fee is A$25,200, covering tuition (A$24,000) and non-tuition fees (A$1,200). Students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the ESOS Act protects international students' rights. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, without commission or referral fees.
Students in the Diploma of Community Services develop practical skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and working with diverse populations. The curriculum covers human welfare studies and services, with a particular focus on aged care. Graduates learn to assess client needs, plan and evaluate services, and coordinate with healthcare professionals. While the exact syllabus is set by Crown Institute of Business and Technology, typical topics include communication strategies, legal and ethical frameworks, and health and safety. This diploma prepares students for roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, or aged care support officer. The work-integrated learning component ensures students apply theory in real-world settings under supervision.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered in English as a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies option. Study mode is likely face-to-face on campus, given the work component. Students should contact the provider for details on class schedules, including part-time or full-time enrolment options. The language of instruction is English, so minimum English proficiency requirements apply (see Entry Requirements). This diploma is designed for international students seeking a career in community services in Australia.
Tuition fee: A$24,000 (indicative, as per CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees: A$1,200 (estimated total A$25,200). These fees are set by Crown Institute of Business and Technology Pty Ltd and are subject to change. For the most current fees, visit the provider's website at https://www.cibt.edu.au. Note that the following are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for Student visa (Subclass 500). As a guide, living costs in Sydney can range from A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year, while Canberra is slightly lower. Always confirm with the provider before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. Prior academic qualifications are expected — generally completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For mature-age students or those without standard entry, the provider may offer foundation or pathway options; check with Crown Institute of Business and Technology for specific entry criteria. All students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider for detailed entry requirements.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 18 weeks at 24 hours per week (approximately 432 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) involves industry placement in aged care facilities, community centres, or social service agencies. Students gain practical experience under supervision, applying skills in client assessment, case management, and support services. The placement is designed to align with the Care for the Aged focus area. Students must arrange their own visa-compliant work placements, and the provider will assist with placement coordination. This real-world experience is invaluable for future employment in Australia's community services sector.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at three locations in Australia: (1) Belconnen, ACT — a suburb of Canberra with over 6,000 students from local institutions; (2) Hurstville Campus, 2 Woodville St, Hurstville NSW 2220 — a major Sydney suburb with a diverse population; (3) Level 11, 307 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000 — in the heart of Sydney's CBD, near public transport. Each location provides access to classrooms and facilities. Students in Sydney benefit from the city's vibrant multicultural community, while Belconnen offers a quieter study environment. Living costs vary: Sydney is generally more expensive (weekly rent A$300–$500), while Canberra (Belconnen) is slightly lower. All campuses are registered CRICOS locations.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Choosing where to study depends on your lifestyle and budget. Sydney offers a bustling city experience with world-class amenities, diverse communities, and a strong job market for community service workers. The Hurstville campus is in a lively suburb with good transport links, while the Sydney CBD campus is central. Canberra (Belconnen) provides a more relaxed, affordable environment with a focus on public service and community work. Both cities have a significant international student population (over 150,000 in Sydney, 15,000 in Canberra) and excellent public transport. Consider your cost of living preferences: Sydney's weekly rent averages A$400–$600, while Canberra is around A$300–$450. Groceries and transport are similar. This course is ideal for those passionate about supporting vulnerable communities in urban or capital city settings.
Ready to start your journey? Research CRICOS-registered providers, apply directly to Crown Institute of Business and Technology, and secure your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for your Student visa. Explore more on HeadStart Academy.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Crown 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.