Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 116094C) is a Diploma delivered by Opal Education Group Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Opal Education Group is committed to delivering education that complies with the ESOS Act, protecting your rights as an international student. Whether you aim to work in community development, case management, or social welfare, this diploma equips you with practical skills and knowledge. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify fees and entry requirements directly with the institution before applying.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 116094C) at Opal Education Group Pty Ltd is a two-year, full-time program designed to prepare students for roles in the community services sector. It is classified under AQF Level 5 (Diploma) and falls within the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090515). This course is ideal for those seeking to support individuals and communities through advocacy, case management, and program coordination. Opal Education Group, a private CRICOS-registered provider (04255M), delivers this qualification with a strong focus on practical experience, including a mandatory work component. The course code CHC52021 reflects its VET national accreditation, ensuring alignment with industry standards.
Students undertaking the Diploma of Community Services explore topics such as human welfare theories, community development practices, ethical decision-making, and client support strategies. The curriculum emphasises real-world application, with graduates expected to demonstrate competence in assessment, referral, and advocacy. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, general learning outcomes include developing skills to work with diverse populations, manage community programs, and navigate legal and ethical frameworks. This diploma typically requires a blend of theoretical study and practical placement, preparing students for roles like community service worker, case manager, or welfare officer.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Community Services at Opal Education Group runs for 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students must commit to full-time study to meet visa requirements. The course may include face-to-face classes at the provider's Hobart campuses, with potential for online components at the provider's discretion. Confirm the exact mode of delivery with Opal Education Group directly.
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Community Services (116094C) are indicatively A$22,000 total, with non-tuition fees of A$2,250, bringing the estimated total to A$24,250. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For the most current fees, always visit Opal Education Group's official website. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
International students applying for the Diploma of Community Services typically need to demonstrate English proficiency, often with an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate III/IV may be expected, but specific requirements vary by provider. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you don't meet the standard entry criteria. Always check with Opal Education Group for exact prerequisites, as entry requirements are set by the institution. Note that this is general guidance; consult the provider for personalised admission conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 7 weeks of professional placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 140 hours. This industry placement is designed to give students hands-on experience in real community service settings, such as community health centres, non-profit organisations, or government agencies. It allows you to apply theoretical knowledge, build professional networks, and gain confidence in client-facing roles. The placement is supervised and must be completed in an approved workplace. Speak with Opal Education Group about placement support and site options.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at two locations in Hobart, Tasmania: 73-81 Murray Street, Hobart TAS 7000, and Level 2, 86 Collins Street, Hobart TAS 7000. Both campuses are centrally located, offering convenient access to public transport, shops, and student amenities. Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is home to a growing student community with several CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Hobart are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around $200–$300, groceries $80–$150, and public transport $30–$50. The city offers a relaxed lifestyle with vibrant arts and nature scenes.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English proficiency standards. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Additionally, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, safeguarding your fees and academic rights. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
Hobart offers a unique environment for studying community services, with a strong sense of community and growing demand for welfare professionals. The city's smaller population means students often enjoy closer relationships with lecturers and placement providers. Tasmania's community services sector focuses on areas like ageing, disability, and rural support, providing diverse learning opportunities. When choosing this course, consider Hobart's lower cost of living compared to mainland capitals, but also limited public transport options in some suburbs. Opal Education Group's central locations make commuting easy. Use HeadStart Academy's filters to compare other community services courses in Tasmania or across Australia.
Applying for the Diploma of Community Services at Opal Education Group involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (Opal Education Group, CRICOS 04255M).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Opal Education Group's website to review entry requirements, complete the application form, and submit necessary documents (e.g., academic transcripts, English test scores). Check application deadlines and any intake dates.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to include OSHC and financial evidence. For personalised guidance, consult a registered migration agent.
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Ready to start your journey? Apply directly to Opal Education Group or use HeadStart Academy's course finder to explore more options.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Opal Education Group 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.