Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 115556H) is a Diploma delivered by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03670D), it meets Australian standards for international students. Harbourside Institute, a private provider in Sydney's Ultimo and Pyrmont campuses, offers this program with a strong work-integrated learning component. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you're aiming to work in aged care, disability services, or community development, this diploma provides a pathway to meaningful careers in Australia's growing human welfare sector. Explore the details below, including fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
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| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| CRICOS Course Code | 115556H |
| Course Name | Diploma of Community Services |
| Level | Diploma (AQF Level 5) |
| Field of Education | 090599 - Human Welfare Studies and Services n.e.c. |
| Provider | Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03670D) |
| Duration | 2 years (104 weeks) |
| Language | English |
| Dual Qualification | No |
| Foundation Studies | No |
| VET National Code | CHC52021 |
| Work Component | Yes, 14 weeks at 20 hrs/wk (280 hrs total) |
| Indicative Tuition | A$24,000 |
| Indicative Non-tuition | A$1,800 |
| Indicative Total | A$25,800 |
| English Requirement | IELTS 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent) |
| Delivery Locations | Ultimo, NSW and Pyrmont, NSW |
This Diploma falls under the field of education 'Human Welfare Studies and Services' (090599). Students typically develop competencies in case management, community development, advocacy, and client assessment. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to address complex social issues. Graduates are prepared to work in diverse settings such as community health, family support, and mental health services. While specific units may vary, the qualification aligns with the national VET standard CHC52021. Harbourside Institute's delivery includes 280 hours of work placement (14 weeks at 20 hrs/week), ensuring hands-on experience in real community service organisations.
The program runs for 2 years (104 weeks as per the CRICOS register). Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is expected, with a combination of classroom learning and placement. Harbourside Institute offers this course at its Sydney campuses (Ultimo and Pyrmont), both within easy reach of public transport. Students should plan for a structured timetable, typically 20 contact hours per week plus self-study and placement hours.
Tuition fee is set at A$24,000 (indicative) as sourced from CRICOS. Non-tuition fees (materials, student services) total A$1,800, bringing the estimated total to A$25,800. Please note: these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living expenses in Sydney average A$500–700 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC typically costs A$600–800 per year. Always confirm current fees with Harbourside Institute directly via www.harbourside.nsw.edu.au, as fees are subject to change.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for Diploma entry. Prior qualifications expected: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a Certificate III/IV in a related field. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course but check with the provider. Always refer to Harbourside Institute's official entry criteria. English waivers may be available for applicants from recognised English-speaking countries.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This is a supervised industry placement in a community services setting (e.g., aged care, disability support, or community health). Work-integrated learning is designed to build practical skills and employability. Students must complete this placement to graduate; it is an integral part of the qualification. Placement locations may vary; Harbourside Institute assists in arranging suitable sites.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Sydney, NSW: 1) Harris Street, ULTIMO NSW 2007 (near Central Station and UTS). 2) Shop 118, 243 Pyrmont St, PYRMONT NSW 2009 (in the heart of Pyrmont, close to Darling Harbour). Both locations are well-serviced by buses and light rail. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 1,200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a rich student community. Living costs are higher than other Australian cities; budget for weekly rent A$400–600 for a room in shared accommodation, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$40–50.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The course is CRICOS-registered, enabling visa sponsorship. Visa conditions include: study full-time, maintain OSHC, and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during scheduled study periods, unlimited during breaks. Financial capacity must be demonstrated for tuition, living costs, travel, and dependents (if applicable). The Department of Home Affairs provides full details. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Harbourside Institute: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) – use the CRICOS register to verify registration. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll get a CoE, then lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount.
New South Wales hosts over 600 CRICOS-registered providers offering community services courses. Sydney offers a diverse population and many NGOs, providing rich placement opportunities. However, the cost of living is high; consider budgeting A$25,000–30,000 per year for living expenses. Regional NSW may offer lower costs and smaller class sizes. This diploma is particularly relevant because Australia's community services sector is growing, with strong demand for qualified workers. Your decision should factor in lifestyle preferences, career goals, and financial capacity.
Ready to apply? Begin your journey by checking your eligibility and contacting Harbourside Institute directly. For more course options, explore our database of 26,433 CRICOS-registered courses.
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