Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114248F) is a Diploma delivered by ALIT EDUCATION GROUP PTY. LTD. over 2 years 1 month (~108 weeks). This qualification is designed for students seeking a career in community services, equipping them with skills in case management, advocacy, and client support. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy provides this page to help you understand the course structure, fees, and visa requirements. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and ALIT Education Group holds CRICOS code 03981M.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114248F) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by ALIT EDUCATION GROUP PTY. LTD. (CRICOS 03981M), a private provider. The course falls under Field of Education 09 – Society and Culture, specifically 090501 Social Work. It prepares students to work in community service organisations, focusing on human welfare studies and services. The program includes a work component of 10 weeks (200 hours) to provide practical experience. This Diploma is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them. As with all CRICOS courses, the ESOS Act protects international students' rights.
This Diploma covers key areas of human welfare studies and services, including social work principles, community development, and client advocacy. Students learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and support individuals and groups. The curriculum typically includes units on case management, ethical practice, and community engagement. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a detailed syllabus, graduates of this field often develop skills in communication, problem-solving, and cultural competence. The course is delivered in English and is designed for those who wish to make a positive impact in society. For specific learning outcomes, refer to ALIT Education Group's official materials.
The Diploma of Community Services is offered over 2 years 1 month (~108 weeks), as listed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification — no dual award or foundation studies component. This duration includes both coursework and the required work component. Students should be prepared for a full-time study commitment, typically structured across semesters. Always confirm the exact study schedule with ALIT Education Group, as modes may include face-to-face or blended delivery.
Tuition fees for Diploma of Community Services are set by ALIT Education Group at A$24,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees are approximately A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$25,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included. For current fees, always check the provider's website directly. As a guide, living costs in Melbourne are around A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting an additional A$21,000 per year for living expenses.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for Diploma-level study. Prior qualifications expected for this AQF Level 5 course generally include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact ALIT Education Group for details. It's essential to meet both academic and English language requirements. Always verify specific entry criteria with the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the CRICOS register for the most up-to-date information.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 10 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) is designed to give students practical experience in community service settings. It may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement, depending on the provider's arrangements. The work component is integral to the qualification and helps students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. International students should note that work placements are subject to visa conditions and must be authorised by the provider.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at 500 Spencer Street, WEST MELBOURNE, VIC 3003. West Melbourne is a vibrant suburb close to Melbourne's CBD, offering excellent public transport access via trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a multicultural environment, diverse food options, and a thriving arts scene. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly higher than the national average, but students can find affordable accommodation in suburbs like Footscray or Brunswick. For more on studying in Victoria, see our /states/vic page.
To study this Diploma of Community Services, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity evidence is also required — you must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed guidelines. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for personalised advice. For visa information, see our visa guide: /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at ALIT Education Group: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. This course is CRICOS 114248F at provider 03981M. 2. Apply directly to ALIT Education Group: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, apply for the visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top destination for international students. It boasts a diverse student population, world-class universities, and a strong job market in community services. The cost of living is higher than in regional areas but manageable with careful budgeting. Public transport is extensive, and the city offers numerous cultural and recreational activities. When choosing this Diploma, consider your career goals in human welfare. This course is ideal if you are passionate about helping others and want to work in community organisations. For more on studying in Victoria, visit /states/vic.
Ready to start? Visit ALIT Education Group's website for current fees and application details, or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at ALIT EDUCATION GROUP 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.