Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 116089M) is a Diploma delivered by Kingsway College Pty Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for students who want to make a difference in the community by supporting individuals and groups facing social challenges. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students and is part of Australia's over 26,000 courses available across 1,500+ providers. With a strong focus on practical skills, this program prepares graduates for roles in community service, case management, and advocacy. Located in St Kilda, Melbourne, Victoria, the course offers a blend of classroom learning and a mandatory 8-week industry placement. Whether you're a recent school leaver or a career changer, this diploma provides the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed to work in the human welfare sector. Read on for details on fees, entry requirements, and how to apply.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 116089M) is a Diploma delivered by Kingsway College Pty Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks). The course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' specifically '090599 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.' and is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) ensuring quality assurance for international students. As a private provider (CRICOS 03916J), Kingsway College Pty Ltd offers this course at its single campus. The program is a single qualification (no dual award) and is taught in English. It includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (240 hours) to provide real-world experience. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, dedicated to helping international students find CRICOS-registered courses.
This Diploma focuses on human welfare studies and services, covering topics such as case management, community development, advocacy, and support for vulnerable populations. Students learn to assess client needs, develop intervention strategies, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The curriculum typically includes units on communication, cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and partnership building. While specific syllabi are set by Kingsway College, graduates at this level are equipped to manage complex cases, supervise junior staff, and coordinate services. The course aligns with the national VET qualification CHC52021, ensuring industry relevance.
The Diploma of Community Services has a CRICOS duration of 102 weeks (1 year 12 months). This is the full-time study period expected for international students. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification—no dual or foundation studies option. Students should anticipate a standard academic schedule with contact hours, self-study, and the 8-week work placement. The course is delivered on campus at the provider's location in St Kilda, Melbourne.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$27,000. Non-tuition fees (such as application, materials, or administration) are approximately A$800, bringing the estimated total to A$27,800. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current and detailed fees, always refer to the Kingsway College Pty Ltd website at www.kingswaycollege.vic.edu.au. International students should budget for additional expenses: in Melbourne, indicative weekly costs are rent A$250–400, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$30–50 (public transport concession available).
International students need to meet English language and academic entry standards. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). For a Diploma level, applicants typically need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Kingsway College may also offer foundation or pathway options if you do not meet direct entry—check with the provider. Always verify specific requirements with the institution, as they set the criteria. State, other entry conditions like age or prerequisite knowledge may apply.
Yes — this course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, 30 hours per week (approximately 240 total hours). This work-integrated learning is typically an industry placement or clinical placement in a community service organisation. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real settings. Placements may involve direct client interaction, program delivery, or administrative support. The work component is a key trust signal: it ensures graduates are job-ready and meet industry standards. International students must ensure their visa allows for this structured work as part of the course.
This course is delivered at 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda, VIC. St Kilda is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its beach, cultural venues, and diverse community. The campus is well-served by public transport (trams and buses), providing easy access to Melbourne's CBD. The area has a high student population and offers various accommodation options, from shared housing to apartments. Living in St Kilda gives students a mix of urban and coastal lifestyle. Melbourne has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering thousands of courses—making it a top destination for international students.
To study this Diploma, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Dependents may accompany with a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). For visa details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Kingsway College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Melbourne). Confirm Kingsway College's registration (CRICOS 03916J) and course code 116089M.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Kingsway College's website (www.kingswaycollege.vic.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and any other documents required. Submit your application online or by post.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the college will issue a CoE. Use the CoE to lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Await visa grant before travelling to Australia.
St Kilda, Melbourne, is a popular area for international students due to its lively atmosphere, beach, and proximity to the city. The suburb hosts several educational institutions and has a multicultural community. Living costs are moderate: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200 to A$350, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$30–$50 (concession cards available). Public transport includes trams, buses, and trains connecting to Melbourne's CBD in about 20 minutes. However, consider that Melbourne's weather is variable, and the city has a high student population which can make accommodation competitive. If you prefer a quieter environment, other suburbs may suit you. Overall, St Kilda offers a vibrant student life with access to Australia's cultural capital.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Kingsway College's website for application details or contact their admissions team directly. HeadStart Academy is here to help you find your perfect course—search more CRICOS-registered options today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Kingsway 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.