Certificate IV in Community Services (CRICOS course code 114743B) is a Certificate IV delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification, with national code CHC42021, prepares you for frontline roles in community services, such as case worker, community support worker, or welfare advocate. Delivered in English across six campuses in Western Australia, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00020G), it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work with families, youth, or disadvantaged groups, this course provides the foundational skills for a rewarding career in human welfare. HeadStart Academy sources data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to bring you accurate, up-to-date information.
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The Certificate IV in Community Services falls under the field of education 090500 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.f.d. (Society and Culture). At AQF Level 4, graduates develop practical and theoretical skills to support individuals and communities. Study areas typically include case management, client advocacy, community development, cultural competence, and ethical practice. You'll learn to assess client needs, plan and implement support strategies, and work within legal and policy frameworks. The curriculum emphasises communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in diverse settings. While specific units are set by the provider, this qualification equips you for roles in government, non-profit, and private community service organisations.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 1 year (52 weeks). All instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). Delivery is full-time, with face-to-face classes at the chosen campus. The structured timetable includes both classroom learning and a work component, ensuring you gain real-world experience. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. No foundation studies component is attached, but entry requirements must be met.
Indicative tuition for Certificate IV in Community Services is A$13,752, with non-tuition fees of A$503, giving an estimated total of A$14,255. These fees are set by Department of Training and Workforce Development and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Western Australia vary by city; for example, weekly rent in Perth is approximately A$300–A$500, with groceries around A$80–A$150. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/.
General English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall is recommended for this level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, and possibly relevant work experience. The provider may offer alternative English tests or pathway programs. For specific entry criteria, contact the provider directly. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course, but the provider may offer bridging programs. Always verify requirements with the institution before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 40 weeks at 3 hours per week (approximately 120 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves industry placement, where you apply classroom knowledge in real community service settings. Supervised by professionals, you'll develop practical skills in client support, case documentation, and teamwork. Placements are arranged by the provider at host organisations such as local councils, NGOs, or health services. The work component is a valuable part of your training and may count towards professional recognition.
The course is delivered at six campuses across Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE - Kalgoorlie Campus in KALGOORLIE, Central Regional TAFE Geraldton Campus in GERALDTON, North Metropolitan TAFE Leederville Campus in LEEDERVILLE (Perth), North Regional TAFE Broome Campus in BROOME, South Metropolitan TAFE Murdoch Campus in MURDOCH (Perth), and South Regional TAFE Albany Campus in ALBANY. Each location offers a unique study environment. For example, Perth campuses benefit from excellent public transport and a large student population (over 50,000 international students), while regional locations may have lower living costs and a closer community feel.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) for this course. Visa conditions include: maintain full-time enrolment, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and hold OSHC for the duration. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity proof is required for the visa application. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition is safeguarded and you receive support services.
Western Australia offers a diverse study experience with vibrant cities like Perth and serene regional towns. Perth, the state capital, has over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers and affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Regional campuses like Kalgoorlie or Broome provide a quieter lifestyle and lower costs. Consider your preference: city life with more networking opportunities or regional with close-knit communities. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Western Australia is renowned for its job market in community services, with demand in aged care, disability support, and child protection.
Applying for Certificate IV in Community Services at Department of Training and Workforce Development is straightforward:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's search to filter by course level (Certificate IV), field (Human Welfare), and location (WA). Confirm the course is still open for international enrolments.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit an application to the Department of Training and Workforce Development via their website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/). Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Seek advice from a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses or contact the Department of Training and Workforce Development directly via their website.
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Certificate IV in Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.