Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115198C) is a Diploma delivered by United Colleges of Australia Pty Ltd as the trustee for UCA Unit Trust over 1 year. This CRICOS-registered course is ideal for international students seeking a career in human welfare and community services. The program focuses on developing skills to support individuals and communities, working in roles such as case manager, community worker, or program coordinator. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and ethical practice, graduates are prepared to make a real difference in society. The course is delivered at the provider's Sydney campus at 303 Pitt Street, in the heart of the city. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03779B), United Colleges of Australia meets Australian Government standards for international education. This page provides all key details about the course, including fees, duration, entry requirements, and how to apply. Always verify the latest information directly with the provider.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115198C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) offered by United Colleges of Australia Pty Ltd as the trustee for UCA Unit Trust (CRICOS 03779B). This course is classified under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services'. The national VET code for this qualification is CHC52021. The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) with instruction in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. There is no mandatory work component included. The indicative tuition fee is A$10,000, with non-tuition fees of A$300, making the estimated total A$10,300. All fees are set by the provider and subject to change; always confirm with the institution before enrolling.
The Diploma of Community Services equips students with advanced skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and program coordination. Graduates learn to work with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, families in crisis, and the elderly. The curriculum covers topics such as ethical practice, legal frameworks, mental health support, and community engagement strategies. Students develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities essential for supervisory roles in community services. While specific unit outlines vary, this level of study typically involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates for real-world challenges in the human services sector.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. The CRICOS register lists this as a single qualification — it is not a dual or packaged program, and it does not include foundation studies. Classes are conducted at the provider's campus in Sydney. Students should expect a mix of face-to-face learning and possibly online components, depending on the provider's delivery mode. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment as per visa conditions.
According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative fees for this course are as follows: tuition fee A$10,000, non-tuition fees A$300, and estimated total fee A$10,300. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses for a single student in Sydney are estimated at A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. Always check the provider's website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
International students applying for the Diploma of Community Services should have an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band less than 5.0, or as specified by the provider). Prior academic qualifications typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For applicants without a formal qualification, relevant work experience may be considered. Some providers may require a Certificate IV in Community Services or equivalent as a prerequisite. Foundation or pathway options may be available through other CRICOS-registered providers — contact United Colleges of Australia or a registered education agent for details. All entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may choose to undertake voluntary work or internships to gain practical experience. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any work must not interfere with their study commitments. It is the student's responsibility to ensure compliance with visa work conditions.
Diploma of Community Services is delivered at the following location: Suite 2.2.18, Level 2, 303 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000. This campus is situated in the central business district (CBD) of Sydney, the largest city in Australia. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses across all fields. The Pitt Street location is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail, making it easily accessible from suburbs across the city. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses are approximately A$450–A$600 for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. Students are advised to budget accordingly.
International students enrolling in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows students to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a registered course, satisfactory course progress, and holding valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. From July 2023, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Visa applications also require proof of financial capacity (e.g., living expenses, tuition, travel). Consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for detailed guidance. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at United Colleges of Australia Pty Ltd as the trustee for UCA Unit Trust:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or platforms like HeadStart Academy to find providers offering Diploma of Community Services in Sydney. Filter by course level and field to find your best fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the United Colleges of Australia website to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and other required documents. Submit your application as instructed.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have valid OSHC and meet all visa criteria. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Sydney is Australia's most multicultural city, with a vibrant student community and excellent job opportunities in community services. The city has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you plenty of options if you wish to compare courses. Living costs are higher than other cities like Melbourne or Brisbane, but Sydney offers world-class amenities, beaches, and a dynamic lifestyle. For community services students, Sydney has a diverse population with significant demand for welfare workers, particularly in areas like homelessness support, aged care, and disability services. The campus at 303 Pitt Street is centrally located, close to public transport, shops, and cultural institutions. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences when deciding if Sydney is the right study destination for you.
As a CRICOS-registered course, the Diploma of Community Services at United Colleges of Australia is covered by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000. This provides important protections for international students, including: the right to receive accurate information before enrolment, tuition fee protection if the provider fails to deliver the course, and access to a complaints and appeals process. The ESOS framework ensures that all CRICOS-registered providers meet strict quality standards. Students can verify the provider's registration status at any time on the CRICOS website (cricos.teqsa.gov.au). HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps students find and compare CRICOS-registered courses.
Frequently asked questions about Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 115198C):
Ready to start your journey? Check the current fees and entry requirements on the United Colleges of Australia website or contact them directly. For more information about studying in Australia, explore HeadStart Academy's resources on CRICOS-registered courses and student visas.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at United Colleges of Australia Pty Ltd as the trustee for UCA Unit Trust. 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.