Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114590C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Australian International Education Centre Pty Ltd over 2 years in Sydney, New South Wales. This course prepares students to work as community services workers, case managers, and support coordinators, focusing on human welfare studies and services. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03751C), AIEC offers this course to international students seeking to enter Australia's growing community services sector. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so finding the right fit is crucial. HeadStart Academy is a free resource providing accurate, up-to-date course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you compare options.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114590C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Australian International Education Centre Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). The course is in the field of Society and Culture (09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) – Welfare Studies (090515). This level typically includes theoretical and practical training in areas such as case management, community development, advocacy, and ethical practice. Graduates may pursue roles in aged care, disability services, family support, and community health. The VET national code is CHC52021. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. Language of instruction is English.
While the CRICOS register does not provide a detailed syllabus, courses at this level generally cover topics like human rights and social justice, case management, community development, counselling skills, group work, and policy advocacy. Students learn to work with diverse populations, manage complex cases, and support individuals and families in need. Practical skills include assessment, referral, and service coordination. The field of Welfare Studies focuses on improving social wellbeing and addressing disadvantage. AIEC's program aligns with industry standards and prepares graduates for the Australian community services landscape.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 2 years (104 weeks). It is delivered in English at the provider's campus. This is a single qualification, meaning you graduate with one award. There are no embedded dual qualifications or foundation studies. Study mode is likely full-time, but confirm directly with AIEC. The 2-year duration meets the requirements for a Subclass 500 student visa, allowing sufficient time to develop skills and complete the mandatory work component.
Tuition: A$30,000; Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials): A$800; Estimated total: A$30,800. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are subject to change – always confirm with the provider at their official website. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) required for student visas, living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$710). In Sydney, indicative weekly rent for a single room is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50 per week. These are estimates only.
International students typically need English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band below 5.0–5.5). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, plus relevant work experience or a Certificate III/IV in Community Services or related field. Some providers may require a Certificate IV or demonstrated skills. Foundation/pathway options may be available – contact AIEC directly. HeadStart Academy always recommends checking the provider's website for exact requirements.
Yes – this course includes a mandatory work component: 18 weeks, 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 432 hours. This is work-integrated learning, such as an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting. Students gain hands-on experience in aged care homes, disability services, or community health organisations, applying classroom knowledge to real-world cases. This component is essential for developing professional competencies and may also count towards visa work experience requirements.
Delivery is at CPSU - Level 3, 191-199 Thomas St — HAYMARKET, NSW. Haymarket is in Sydney's city centre, near Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The campus is accessible by public transport: train to Central Station (7 min walk), light rail, and buses. Living in Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment but with higher living costs – budget around A$2,000–A$3,000 per month including rent, food, and transport.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa grant). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for a single student), and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses your application. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA agent for advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring refunds and complaint mechanisms.
Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse population, offering rich opportunities for community services placements. The sector is growing, with demand for workers in aged care, disability, and family support. However, living costs are higher than other cities. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. HeadStart Academy's data shows over 400 community services courses across Australia – compare locations to find the best fit.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian International Education Centre 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.