Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115143G) is a Diploma delivered by Bendigo Kangan Institute over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed to prepare international students for professional roles in community services, case management, and social welfare. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Bendigo Kangan Institute (CRICOS 01218G) is a government-owned TAFE provider with campuses in Bendigo and Broadmeadows, Victoria. With a total indicative cost of A$30,000 (tuition A$25,000 + non-tuition A$5,000), this diploma offers a pathway to rewarding careers in human welfare. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115143G) is a Diploma delivered by Bendigo Kangan Institute over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 0905 – Human Welfare Studies and Services, within the broad field of Society and Culture. Graduates typically develop skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and client support. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC52021. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected by the ESOS Act 2000, which guarantees tuition assurance and consumer rights. Bendigo Kangan Institute is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses.
This diploma provides a broad grounding in community services practice. While the specific syllabus is set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include understanding Australian welfare systems, developing intervention strategies, managing case loads, and applying ethical frameworks. Students engage with topics such as trauma-informed care, mental health support, and working with diverse populations. The course emphasises practical skills through simulated environments and may involve community partnerships. Note that this course does not include a mandatory work component.
The Diploma of Community Services runs for 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). Full-time study is typically required to meet the duration. The course is delivered face-to-face at Bendigo Kangan Institute's campuses. Students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee is A$25,000 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees (including materials, resources, and administration) are estimated at A$5,000, bringing the total estimated cost to A$30,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For current fee information, always check Bendigo Kangan Institute's official website at www.kangan.edu.au.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent in other recognised English tests such as TOEFL or PTE). Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and possibly a relevant Certificate IV or work experience. Specific academic prerequisites are set by Bendigo Kangan Institute – refer to their website for details. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements; contact the provider for options. All entry requirements are subject to change.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component as part of its curriculum. However, Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Always check Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
Bendigo Kangan Institute delivers this course at two locations: Bendigo campus in Bendigo, VIC, and Broadmeadows Campus in Broadmeadows, VIC. Bendigo is a regional city in central Victoria with a student-friendly environment, approximately 1.5 hours north of Melbourne. Broadmeadows is a northern suburb of Melbourne, well-served by public transport (train and bus). Both campuses provide access to learning resources, libraries, and student support services. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination. Living costs in Bendigo are generally lower than in Melbourne; indicative weekly rent may range from A$150–250, while in Broadmeadows it may be A$200–350.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2026, the cost of living requirement is at least A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). Student work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act provides protections including refund requirements and access to tuition assurance. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Bendigo Kangan Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS course code 115143G to verify the course and provider details on the official CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au). Filter by course level (Diploma) and location (Victoria). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Bendigo Kangan Institute's website (www.kangan.edu.au) to check specific entry requirements, submit your application, provide evidence of English proficiency, and note application deadlines. You may apply online or through an authorised education agent. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. With this, you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Victoria is Australia's second-most popular state for international students, hosting over 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Melbourne, the state capital, is known for its multicultural environment, world-class universities, and strong employment opportunities in community services. Regional centres like Bendigo offer a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with community-focused networks. Public transport connects campuses across the state. When choosing a study location, consider climate, cost of living, access to support services, and proximity to potential work placements. Bendigo Kangan Institute's dual locations give you flexibility.
Ready to start your community services career in Australia? Explore the Diploma of Community Services at Bendigo Kangan Institute today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bendigo Kangan Institute. 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.