Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 116105E) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. Delivered at the Fortitude Valley campus in Brisbane, Queensland, the course combines theoretical learning with a substantial work placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students, ensuring access to student visa pathways and ESOS Act protections. Whether you're looking to start a career in community services or advance your existing skills, this diploma offers a practical pathway in one of Australia's most in-demand fields. The indicative total cost is A$26,500, including tuition and non-tuition fees. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Diploma of Community Services falls under the field of education 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services. At this level, students develop advanced skills in client assessment, case management, community development, and crisis intervention. The curriculum typically covers topics such as ethical practice, legal frameworks, working with diverse populations, and managing complex client needs. Graduates are prepared for roles like community services worker, case coordinator, or project officer in government, non-profit, or private organisations. The course also includes a work component of 16 weeks (approximately 320 hours) to provide real-world experience. While specific subjects are set by the provider, this diploma ensures readiness for professional practice in community welfare.
The course is scheduled for 2 years (104 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted in English. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at the Fortitude Valley campus, with a structured timetable that accommodates the work placement. The full-time study load meets student visa requirements for Subclass 500 applicants.
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Community Services at Australian College of Technology and Business are indicative at A$24,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and administration) are estimated at A$2,500, bringing the total to A$26,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$500–700 per week in Brisbane for rent, food, and transport), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.actb.com.au before applying.
Applicants are generally expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, with English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall. Prior study or experience in community services may be beneficial. Australian College of Technology and Business may have additional prerequisites; refer to their website for detailed entry criteria. If you don't meet the English requirements, pathway options like English language courses may be available – check with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 16 weeks (20 hours per week, approximately 320 total hours). This work-integrated learning may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, helping students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments. The placement is arranged by the provider and is a key part of the curriculum, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
The course is delivered at 100 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Brisbane, just 2 km from the CBD. Brisbane is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–400. Public transport (train, bus, ferry) is readily accessible, connecting the campus to all parts of the city.
International students studying this course on a student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment, attend at least 80% of classes, and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa duration. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, including tuition fee protection and complaint resolution. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for personalised advice, consult a MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare Diploma of Community Services courses across Australia. 2. Apply directly to Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd – check entry requirements, English test results, and application deadlines. Submit your application online via their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity.
Ready to apply? Follow the three-step How to apply guide above. For more courses, use HeadStart Academy's free search tool.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Technology and Business 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.