Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114799H) is a Diploma delivered by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks). This qualification, classified under Field of Education 0905 (Human Welfare Studies and Services), equips students with practical skills to support individuals and communities. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the rigorous standards for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03173K) is a private provider with campuses in Brisbane, Southport, Parramatta, and Cairns. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant city life of Brisbane or the tropical lifestyle of Cairns, this course offers flexibility and real-world experience through a mandatory work component. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study journey—all data comes directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114799H) is a nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 5) under the VET standard CHC52021. It is delivered by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered institution with over 20 years of experience in vocational education. The course runs for 80 weeks (1 year 6 months) and includes a work component of 10 weeks (200 hours) to ensure graduates are job-ready. This qualification is part of the Society and Culture field (09) and specifically focuses on Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). Graduates typically find roles as community service workers, case managers, or support coordinators in government, non-profit, and private sectors. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many that meet strict quality standards. Always verify current registration via the CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
The Diploma of Community Services covers core competencies in community development, case management, advocacy, and client support. Students learn to assess individual needs, develop support plans, coordinate services, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The curriculum also includes topics like trauma-informed care, mental health first aid, and cultural competency. While HeadStart Academy does not publish a specific syllabus, typical learning outcomes at this level include leading teams, managing programs, and evaluating service delivery. The field of Human Welfare Studies and Services prepares you for diverse roles in aged care, disability services, family support, and community health. Practical skills are developed through simulated assessments and real-world placements.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered full-time over 1 year 6 months, equating to 80 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual award or foundation studies). Students should expect approximately 20 hours of classes per week plus self-study. The course is face-to-face at one of four delivery locations. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration meets Australian Government requirements for international student visa holders. The 80-week timeframe includes the mandatory work component, which is integrated into the program.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Community Services is A$22,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000 (including enrolment, materials, and student services). The estimated total is A$24,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change—always confirm directly with ALIF Australia Pty Ltd via their website: www.australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. For an international student, budget approximately A$21,000–A$27,000 per year for living expenses (including rent, groceries, transport, and personal costs) depending on your location. Brisbane/Queensland generally has lower living costs than Sydney. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for detailed financial capacity requirements.
International students typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) to enter this Diploma. Prior qualifications expected are completion of Year 12 or equivalent in your home country. Some providers may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options (e.g., a Certificate III) may be available—please check with ALIF Australia Pty Ltd for specific articulation arrangements. HeadStart Academy recommends you meet the English language requirement and any academic prerequisites before applying. Remember, entry requirements are set by the provider and may vary. Use the CRICOS register as your primary source of truth.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real community service settings, such as aged care facilities, community centres, or non-profit organisations. You'll work under supervision, gain hands-on experience, and build professional networks. The placement is arranged by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd and is an integral part of the qualification. It also helps you meet the practical requirements for professional recognition in the field.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at four ALIF Australia Pty Ltd campuses: (1) Brisbane – Albert Street, in the heart of the city, near public transport and student hubs; (2) Southport – Bay Street, on the Gold Coast, a popular study destination with a large international student community; (3) Parramatta – George Street, in Western Sydney, a fast-growing education precinct with easy train access; (4) Cairns – Lake Street, in tropical North Queensland, offering a unique lifestyle close to the Great Barrier Reef. Each location provides a supportive learning environment. Brisbane has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while Cairns is smaller but growing. Living costs vary: weekly rent in Brisbane ~$400–$600, in Parramatta ~$350–$500, in Southport ~$380–$550, and in Cairns ~$300–$450. All prices are indicative. ESOS protections apply at every campus, ensuring your rights as an international student.
To study this course, you'll need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during scheduled holidays), and bring eligible family members. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your visa. The Department of Home Affairs also requires you to maintain enrolment and course progress. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent or the Department's website for personalised advice.
Choosing where to study matters. Queensland (Brisbane, Southport, Cairns) offers a relaxed lifestyle, lower living costs than Sydney, and strong community services sector. New South Wales (Parramatta) provides proximity to Sydney's job market and cultural diversity. Brisbane has a large international student population and excellent public transport. Cairns is ideal if you prefer a smaller, tropical setting. Consider your budget: weekly rent in Parramatta can be $50–$100 less than Sydney CBD, and Cairns is even more affordable. Both states have numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering community services courses. HeadStart Academy's database includes 26,433 courses across all states—helping you compare options.
Ready to start your journey? Follow these three steps:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the CRICOS register to confirm ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (03173K) is registered and that course 114799H meets your goals. HeadStart Academy’s free resource can help you compare courses and locations.
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution – Contact ALIF Australia Pty Ltd, submit your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and intake dates (usually February, July, or October).
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you’ll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE. You can apply online. For assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Explore more CRICOS-registered community services courses on HeadStart Academy – your free guide to studying in Australia.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at ALIF Australia 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.