Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114966J) is a Diploma delivered by AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This course is registered on CRICOS (provider code 04213K) and is designed for international students seeking to build a career in community services. Graduates develop skills to support individuals and communities, working in roles such as case manager, community worker, or program coordinator. The course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (09) and specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards for international education. AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd is a private provider based in Payneham, South Australia, offering this diploma with an integrated work component. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses across Australia, this course represents a genuine pathway to in-demand roles in the community sector. Note that HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 114966J) is an AQF Level 5 qualification delivered by AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04213K). The course runs for 56 weeks (1 year 1 month) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program) with a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 30 hours per week (240 hours total). The indicative tuition fee is A$10,950 with no non-tuition fees, giving an estimated total of A$10,950. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Always confirm current fees directly with AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students have legal rights and tuition protection. For detailed information, visit the provider's website or refer to the CRICOS register.
This diploma focuses on human welfare studies and services, equipping students with practical skills to support diverse populations, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and those experiencing social disadvantage. Learners explore case management, advocacy, community development, and ethical practice. While specific unit lists are set by AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd, typical topics include communication strategies, legal and policy frameworks, and client assessment. The course combines theoretical knowledge with workplace application through the 240-hour work component. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it builds on foundational skills and prepares graduates for supervisory or team leader roles in community services. In South Australia, the community services sector is growing, with many opportunities in Adelaide and regional areas. Studying at a CRICOS-registered provider ensures the qualification is recognised across Australia.
The Diploma of Community Services runs for 56 weeks (approximately 1 year 1 month) according to the CRICOS register. This duration includes the 8-week work component. The course is delivered in English, and there are no dual qualification or foundation study options. Students attend classes at the Payneham campus in Adelaide. The standard full-time study load is 20 contact hours per week, plus self-study. Scheduled breaks may also affect the overall timeline. For international students studying in Adelaide, the city offers a vibrant student atmosphere with a mix of urban and suburban study environments. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd for exact term dates and holiday periods.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register (April 2026) show a tuition fee of A$10,950 and no non-tuition fees, giving an estimated total of A$10,950. However, fees are set by AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd and are subject to change — always confirm directly before applying. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders, and living expenses. In Adelaide, average living costs are around A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is also separate. For a detailed budget, use the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Community Services are set by AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd. Generally, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent), and have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a certificate level qualification. Since this is an AQF Level 5 diploma, prior study at certificate level or higher is expected. There are no foundation study options listed, but AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd may offer pathways — refer to the provider. All entry requirements are designed to ensure students can successfully complete the course. Always check specific criteria on the provider's website, as they may change.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 240 hours. This is an integrated part of the curriculum, providing practical workplace experience in the community services sector. The work component may involve industry placements, internships, or clinical placements, depending on the provider's arrangements. For international students, this work is considered a compulsory part of the course and not subject to the usual student visa work limitations — though standard visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term) apply to any additional paid work outside the component. The placement prepares graduates for real-world roles and enhances employability. AUCTUS Consulting Pty Ltd will arrange or assist with placement opportunities in the Adelaide area.
The course is delivered at: Suite 9, Wellington Business Centre, 2 Portrush Rd, PAYNEHAM SA 5070. Payneham is a suburb of Adelaide, approximately 5 km east of the city centre. Adelaide is South Australia's capital, with a population of around 1.3 million and a growing international student community. The city has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Public transport to Payneham includes buses and the O-Bahn, with a journey of about 20 minutes from the CBD. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared house around A$200–300. The area offers a mix of residential and commercial facilities, including shops, restaurants, and parks. Students benefit from a supportive study environment and easy access to Adelaide's cultural and recreational amenities.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The course's mandatory work component is separate and must be completed as part of the course. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Ready to start your Diploma of Community Services? Follow the steps below to apply.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at AUCTUS Consulting 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.