Are you considering a career in community services in Australia? The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115535B) is a comprehensive 2-year program delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd. This qualification equips you with the skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. With delivery in Melbourne and Surry Hills, you can choose a location that suits your lifestyle. This page provides everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, work placement details, and how to apply. Let HeadStart Academy guide you through your study journey in Australia.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115535B) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03427D), a private provider. The course falls under the field of Society and Culture (09) – Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) – n.e.c. (090599). Over 104 weeks (2 years), you will develop practical skills in client assessment, case work, community development, and ethical practice. This qualification is nationally recognised under the VET National Code CHC52021. Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. By choosing a CRICOS-registered course, you benefit from the legal protections of the ESOS Act, including tuition fee safeguards and complaint mechanisms.
The Diploma of Community Services prepares graduates for roles such as community service worker, case manager, or welfare coordinator. The curriculum typically covers topics like case management, advocacy, community development, mental health support, and working with diverse populations. You'll learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, and evaluate outcomes. While the specific syllabus at Sydney Metro College may vary, the course aligns with the CHC52021 training package. This field (Human Welfare Studies and Services) is in high demand across Australia, particularly in urban and regional areas. Melbourne, for instance, has over 100 community services providers and a strong job market for diploma graduates. For more details on the study experience, visit the provider's website at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au.
This Diploma is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students can expect a mix of classroom learning, practical workshops, and online components. As a full-time course, it meets student visa requirements. The duration is typical for AQF Level 5 Diplomas in Australia. You'll need to maintain satisfactory attendance to comply with visa conditions. Sydney Metro College offers study in two vibrant cities: Melbourne (VIC) and Surry Hills (NSW), each with excellent public transport and student amenities. For international students, the schedule allows for part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term) to support living costs.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$36,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,500, making an estimated total of A$38,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Important: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are NOT included. Living expenses in Australia are estimated at around A$21,000 per year (student visa financial capacity), varying by city. In Melbourne, weekly rent can range from A$200–400, groceries A$100–150, and transport A$40–60. In Sydney, costs are slightly higher. Always confirm current fees directly with Sydney Metro College via their website, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees – we provide this data as a free resource.
To enrol in the Diploma of Community Services at Sydney Metro College, you typically need to meet the following: English language proficiency – IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent); completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent; and relevant work experience may be considered. This course is at AQF Level 5, so prior qualifications like a Certificate IV in Community Services or similar may be advantageous but not mandatory. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course – refer to the provider for bridging programs. Note: Entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary – always check with Sydney Metro College. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This Diploma includes a mandatory work component: 19 weeks, 21.1 hours per week, totalling approximately 401 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) usually takes the form of industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting. It's designed to give you hands-on experience under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Placements may be in aged care, disability support, mental health, or community health organisations. The exact arrangement will be coordinated by Sydney Metro College. This component is a significant advantage for your resume and can lead to job offers after graduation. Remember, student visa holders can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (plus unlimited hours during scheduled breaks), but placement hours are part of your course – not counted under work limits.
Sydney Metro College delivers the Diploma of Community Services at two campuses: - SMC Melbourne Campus – Melbourne, VIC - Sydney Metro College (Surry Hills) – Lvl 2, 16-22 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills, NSW Melbourne is a multicultural hub with over 200,000 international students, a strong job market in community services, and excellent tram and train networks. Surry Hills is close to Sydney's CBD, with diverse communities and ample placement opportunities. Choosing a location depends on your preferences for lifestyle, weather, and career connections. Melbourne generally has lower living costs than Sydney. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. For more details on each campus, visit the provider's website or explore our city guides on /states/vic and /states/nsw.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: you must be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course (like this one); meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion; have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for 2025), and travel. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Your course's work component is separate and does not count toward this limit. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you stay in Australia. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – always consult MARA professionals or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice. See our detailed guide at /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course and provider directories to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is on the CRICOS register (Sydney Metro College is CRICOS 03427D). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Sydney Metro College with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. We recommend a registered migration agent for assistance. Need more guidance? Visit our visa page at /visa/student-visa-subclass-500.
Before committing to this diploma, think about these points: The community services sector in Australia is growing, with strong demand for qualified workers in aged care, disability support, and mental health. Victoria and New South Wales have robust job markets, but regional areas also offer opportunities. English proficiency at IELTS 5.5–6.0 is a typical entry requirement – if your score is lower, consider a pathway program. The work placement component is a great way to build local experience, but ensure you can commit to the schedule. Living costs – Melbourne is slightly cheaper than Sydney, but both cities require careful budgeting. Student visa conditions: you must maintain attendance and course progress. Finally, always confirm course details with the provider, as CRICOS data may update. This course is a solid step towards a rewarding career helping others.
Ready to start your journey? Explore the Diploma of Community Services on the Sydney Metro College website or use our course finder to compare other community services courses.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metro College 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.