Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114141F) is a Diploma delivered by NOVUS EDUCATION PTY LTD over 2 years. This qualification (VET national code CHC52021) is designed for individuals seeking to work in community services, supporting individuals and groups through advocacy, case management, and program coordination. Graduates can pursue roles such as community service manager, case coordinator, or welfare support worker. The course is offered at two campuses in NSW—Gosford and Ultimo—providing flexibility for students in both regional and metropolitan areas. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering 26,000+ courses, and this diploma sits in the field of Society and Culture (Human Welfare Studies and Services). International students benefit from legal rights including tuition protection and transparent fee information. The indicative tuition fee is A$28,000 plus non-tuition fees of A$4,500, totaling A$32,500. Living costs and OSHC are additional. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
The Diploma of Community Services falls under Field of Education 09 – Society and Culture, specifically 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services. At AQF Level 5, students develop advanced knowledge and skills in client assessment, case management, community development, and advocacy. The curriculum typically covers topics such as human rights, social justice, working with diverse populations, trauma-informed care, and ethical practice. Graduates are prepared to work in government, non-profit, and private sectors, supporting individuals and communities facing complex challenges. This qualification emphasises practical, person-centred approaches and critical thinking, enabling graduates to design and implement community programs. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a specific syllabus, the course aligns with industry standards and prepares students for roles such as community service coordinator, welfare officer, or program leader.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Community Services runs for 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies component). As an international student, you will need to maintain full-time enrolment as per Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. NOVUS EDUCATION may offer blended delivery modes; confirm directly with the provider for specific study schedules.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$28,000, with non-tuition fees of A$4,500, for an estimated total of A$32,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always verify current fees directly with NOVUS EDUCATION PTY LTD on their official website. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses – estimated A$21,041 per year for a single student in NSW (Department of Home Affairs guideline); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). You will also need to budget for textbooks, equipment, and personal expenses. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are secure.
International students must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band below 5.0 in many cases). Higher scores may be required for some providers. Prior academic qualifications at AQF Level 4 or equivalent are typically expected. For this diploma, a Certificate IV in Community Services or relevant work experience may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway programs are not listed for this course; refer to NOVUS EDUCATION for alternative entry options. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Student visa. Check CRICOS registration for the most accurate prerequisites, as requirements can vary by provider.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). Work-integrated learning (WIL) may involve industry placements, internships, or clinical placements in community service organisations. This hands-on experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional networks, and meet industry competency standards. The placement is typically supervised and may require a Working with Children Check or police clearance. Confirm specific WIL arrangements directly with NOVUS EDUCATION.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at two campuses in New South Wales: 1. Gosford Campus – Mann Street, Gosford NSW (Central Coast region). 2. Unit 310 22-36 Mountain Street, Ultimo NSW 2007 (central Sydney). Ultimo is a vibrant student hub near Broadway Shopping Centre, Chinatown, and Central Station. Gosford offers a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with lower living costs. Sydney has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering community service courses; the city has extensive public transport including trains, buses, and light rail. Typical weekly rent in Sydney is A$350–A$600, while Gosford averages A$300–A$450. Both campuses are accessible via public transport. Living costs will vary based on lifestyle.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course; hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay; meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria; and provide evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Dependants may have separate work rights. After completing a diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a MARA-registered agent for your specific situation.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at NOVUS EDUCATION PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Human Welfare Studies and Services), and location (NSW). Compare providers, fees, and delivery modes. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit NOVUS EDUCATION's website to check specific entry requirements, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit your application with academic transcripts, English proficiency evidence, and any relevant work experience. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, NOVUS will issue a CoE. Then apply online for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs, attaching your CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply early.
New South Wales is Australia's most populous state, home to Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong. It offers diverse study environments from bustling city campuses to coastal regional centres. Over 500 CRICOS-registered providers operate in NSW, with more than 8,000 courses available. Sydney alone has a student population exceeding 200,000 international students. The state has a strong job market for community service professionals, with demand in aged care, disability support, and mental health. Living costs are higher in Sydney, but regional areas like Gosford offer more affordable options. Public transport in Sydney is extensive (Opal card system), and Gosford is connected via train to Sydney. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing a location. HeadStart Academy's provider page for NOVUS EDUCATION can help you explore further.
Ready to start your community services career? Research NOVUS EDUCATION on HeadStart Academy and take the first step.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at NOVUS 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.