Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 116810B) is a Diploma delivered by Grampians College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to support individuals and communities in need. As a CRICOS-registered qualification (provider code 04285E), it meets Australian standards for international students. The field of education is Society and Culture, focusing on human welfare studies. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This page provides accurate, up-to-date information sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Note: HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge referral fees. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students. Read on to learn about fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, and how to apply.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 116810B) is a Diploma-level qualification (AQF Level 5) offered by Grampians College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04285E), a private provider. The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) with instruction in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The vocational education and training (VET) national code is CHC52021. This course is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as community services worker, case manager, or support coordinator. According to the CRICOS register, the course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours), providing practical industry experience. The indicative tuition fee is A$26,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,500, totalling approximately A$28,000. Please note that fees are set by the provider and subject to change; always verify with Grampians College before applying.
This Diploma falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' and more specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services.' At this level, students typically develop advanced skills in case management, community development, advocacy, and client support. The curriculum covers topics such as ethical practice, cultural competence, working with diverse populations, and promoting social justice. While HeadStart Academy does not provide the exact syllabus, graduates of similar AQF Level 5 community services programs often gain competencies in assessing client needs, developing support plans, navigating legal frameworks, and collaborating with other service providers. The course aims to produce graduates who can work autonomously and supervise others in community service settings. For detailed subject descriptions, contact Grampians College directly.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is conducted in English. This is a single qualification, meaning you will not receive a dual award or foundation studies component. The course is likely offered in a face-to-face mode at the provider's campus. International students should note that full-time study load requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500) typically demand at least 20 hours of contact per week. Grampians College may also offer blended learning options; confirm with the provider. Studying in Footscray, Victoria, gives you access to a vibrant multicultural community and proximity to Melbourne's city centre.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services at Grampians College is A$26,500, with non-tuition fees (such as enrolment and materials) estimated at A$1,500, bringing the total to approximately A$28,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs around A$500–A$700 per year, living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year in Victoria according to the Department of Home Affairs), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always check the provider's website for the most current fees and a full breakdown. Grampians College may offer payment plans or scholarships; inquire directly.
For the Diploma of Community Services, Grampians College typically requires international students to demonstrate English proficiency, with an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications are expected, usually completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also require relevant work or volunteer experience. If you do not meet these requirements, pathway options such as foundation studies or English language courses may be available. Contact Grampians College for specific prerequisites and any credit transfer possibilities. Note: Entry requirements are set by the institution and may change. HeadStart Academy recommends checking directly with the provider and consulting a registered migration agent if needed.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This work-integrated learning may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement, depending on the provider's arrangements. Such placements are designed to give you practical experience in real community service settings, such as non-profit organisations, government agencies, or healthcare facilities. You will apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, develop professional networks, and enhance your employability. The work component counts towards your course completion and may be scheduled during study breaks or concurrently with study. Ensure you have a valid visa with work rights (Student visa Subclass 500 permits 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks).
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at Level 2, 138 Nicholson Street, Footscray, Victoria 3011. Footscray is an inner-western suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km from the CBD. It is a culturally diverse area with a strong community services sector. The campus is accessible by train (Footscray station) and multiple bus routes. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, with a large concentration in Melbourne. Living costs in Footscray are moderate: weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–$300, groceries about A$80–$150, and a Myki public transport pass approximately A$45 per week. Studying in Footscray offers exposure to a rich multicultural environment and proximity to Melbourne's job market.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks), and includes family members. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintain valid enrolment. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The current visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Grampians College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Community Services), and location (Footscray). Compare providers and courses. 2. Apply directly to Grampians College – check entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts), prepare your documents, and submit an application before the deadline. The provider will assess your eligibility and may request additional information. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the institution issues a CoE. Use it to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, funds, and GTE evidence ready.
Ready to start your journey? Research more Diploma courses in Victoria using HeadStart Academy's free search tool.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Grampians 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.