Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115269D) is a Diploma delivered by B&P Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking a career in human welfare, community development, and social services. Australian registered training organisations (RTOs) with CRICOS registration are the only institutions authorised to enrol overseas students, and this course meets that requirement. Graduates will be equipped to work in diverse community settings, supporting individuals and groups to improve their wellbeing. The course is delivered at the provider's campus in Burwood, a vibrant suburb of Sydney with excellent connectivity and a large student population. With a focus on practical skills and work-integrated learning, this Diploma offers a pathway to employment or further study in social work and related fields.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 115269D) is a nationally recognised qualification (VET code CHC52021) offered by B&P Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04178H). As a private registered training organisation approved by the Australian Government, B&P Education Pty Ltd is committed to delivering quality education in the community services sector. The course is aligned with the field of education 090501 Social Work, focusing on human welfare studies and services. Students gain competencies in case management, advocacy, community outreach, and program development. The course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (200 hours) to ensure graduates are job-ready. All CRICOS-registered courses in Australia are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, giving international students legal rights including refund policies and access to support services. HeadStart Academy sources its data directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
This Diploma covers the core knowledge and skills required to work in community services, including human rights, social justice, community development, and ethical practice. Students learn to assess client needs, develop individualised support plans, coordinate services, and advocate on behalf of vulnerable populations. The curriculum emphasises culturally competent practice, particularly important in Australia's multicultural society. While specific subjects are determined by the provider, typical learning outcomes include understanding the Australian welfare system, effective communication with diverse groups, and strategies for crisis intervention. Graduates can pursue roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, outreach officer, or welfare support worker. The course also provides a pathway to higher-level qualifications, such as a Bachelor of Social Work, with possible credit transfers available.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 78 weeks (1 year 6 months) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The duration includes both coursework and the work placement component. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning, online resources, and practical training. Attendance is typically required during business hours, and the course may include evening or weekend sessions depending on the provider's schedule. The CRICOS register lists the duration as the standard time to complete, but actual completion may vary based on individual progress and attendance.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$22,500. Non-tuition fees including enrolment, materials, and administration amount to A$2,500. The estimated total cost is A$25,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. They are subject to change without notice. Always confirm current fees directly with B&P Education Pty Ltd by visiting their website at www.ausfordcollege.edu.au. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 as at 2026 for Subclass 500). For a single international student in Sydney, indicative weekly costs are around A$550–700, including rent, groceries, and transport. OSHC is mandatory and typically costs A$600–$800 per year.
Entry to the Diploma of Community Services typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency. The indicative English requirement for this course is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may also accept PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English. Prior work experience or study in a related field may be considered. Foundation or pathway programs are not offered with this course; however, the provider may offer English language support or bridging programs. For specific entry requirements, contact B&P Education Pty Ltd directly. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This industry placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real community service settings, such as non-profit organisations, government agencies, or private social services. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require students to undergo background checks and vaccinations. The work component is a critical part of the curriculum, providing invaluable experience for future employment. International students must ensure their student visa allows for unpaid placement hours; usually, work associated with the course is not counted toward the 48-hour fortnightly work limit. However, it is advisable to check with the Department of Home Affairs if the placement is paid.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered in person at B&P Education Pty Ltd's campus located at 14 Railway Pde, Burwood, NSW 2134. Burwood is a major suburban hub in Sydney's inner west, just 12 kilometres from the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, with Burwood train station and multiple bus routes within walking distance. Burwood offers a multicultural community, with a large number of international students living in the area. The suburb has a high density of education providers—over 50 CRICOS-registered institutions operate in the Burwood and surrounding suburbs, according to the CRICOS register. Living costs in Burwood are generally lower than in the CBD but higher than regional areas. Weekly rent for a share house is around A$200–350, and a one-bedroom apartment costs A$400–600. Groceries and transport add approximately A$150–250 per week. This location is ideal for students who want proximity to Sydney's city life while enjoying a suburban atmosphere.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Key requirements include: being enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (like this Diploma), maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay, and demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session (including postgraduate) and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. However, work must not compromise your attendance or academic progress. The visa application charge is separate and must be paid to the Department of Home Affairs. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, please consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs website. The ESOS Act ensures that international students receive the same protections as local students, including access to a complaints process if the provider fails to deliver the course.
Applying for the Diploma of Community Services at B&P Education Pty Ltd is a straightforward three-step process:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to verify that B&P Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04178H) is registered to deliver this course. Filter by course level, field, and location to confirm it meets your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact B&P Education Pty Ltd (www.ausfordcollege.edu.au) with your academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and start dates. The provider may have its own entry requirements beyond the minimum.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE, which you need to lodge a visa application. Submit your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence, GTE statement, and financial capacity proof.
HeadStart Academy does not charge any fees or commissions—all information is provided as a free public service.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a top destination for international students, hosting over 200,000 international enrolments across multiple universities and colleges. The city offers a dynamic lifestyle, world-class infrastructure, and a diverse job market. However, it is also one of the most expensive cities in Australia. Weekly living costs for a single student range from A$550 to A$800, including accommodation, food, and transport. Sydney's public transport system includes trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, with student discounts available. The city has numerous job opportunities in community services, but competition can be high. If you prefer a more affordable and quieter environment, consider regional locations. Nonetheless, for those seeking a vibrant cultural experience and strong industry connections, Sydney is an excellent choice. Burwood, in particular, offers a balanced lifestyle with its bustling shopping precinct, parks, and community feel.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step process to start your Diploma of Community Services journey.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at B&P Education 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.