Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 117330K) is a Diploma delivered by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. It prepares students for roles in community support, case management, and advocacy. The course is delivered across four campuses: Ikon Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03581E), Proteus Technologies ensures compliance with Australian education standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this diploma is one of many pathways for international students seeking to study in Australia. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent. For visa advice, consult a MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 117330K) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03581E), trading as Ikon Institute. The course is designed to equip students with the skills to work in community services, including case management, advocacy, and program coordination. The field of education is 09 - Society and Culture, with a specific focus on Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). This qualification is ideal for those aiming to support vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, or those facing social disadvantage. The course does not include a work component, meaning there is no mandatory placement. Students will engage with theoretical frameworks and practical applications relevant to the Australian community services sector. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
While specific syllabus details are not provided on the CRICOS register, a Diploma of Community Services at AQF Level 5 typically covers topics such as case management, community development, advocacy, and ethics. Students learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and implement programs that promote social inclusion. The course may also include modules on mental health, trauma-informed care, and working with diverse populations. Graduates develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills essential for roles in government, non-profit, and private organisations. As this is a single qualification (no dual award), students focus solely on community services. For a detailed learning outline, contact Proteus Technologies directly via their website www.ikon.edu.au.
The Diploma of Community Services is a 1-year program, consisting of 52 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, so students will not receive a dual award. Study mode is not explicitly listed on CRICOS, but typical delivery for such diplomas includes face-to-face classes at the provider's campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Australia's Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights as a student, ensuring quality and financial safeguards.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$22,248, with non-tuition fees of A$795, bringing the estimated total to A$23,043. These fees are set by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: fees are indicative and subject to change. Always confirm with the provider at www.ikon.edu.au before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. For cost of living guidance, typical weekly expenses range from A$400 in Adelaide to A$700 in Sydney. These estimates are for reference only.
Prospective students should have an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). For a Diploma (AQF Level 5), prior qualifications such as completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent are generally expected. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV. Foundation or pathway options may be available; contact Proteus Technologies for specific entry criteria. Always verify English requirements with the provider, as test scores may vary by institution. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no work placement, internship, or professional experience requirement as part of the CRICOS-registered course. However, students may seek voluntary or part-time work independently, subject to visa conditions. The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows work of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at four Ikon Institute campuses: Ikon Adelaide Campus (Adelaide, SA), Ikon Brisbane Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Ikon Melbourne Campus (Melbourne, VIC), and Ikon Sydney Campus (Haymarket, NSW). Each city offers a unique study environment. Adelaide has a lower cost of living with average rent around A$400 per week, while Sydney is more expensive at A$700. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Adelaide has 23 CRICOS-registered providers, Brisbane has over 50, Melbourne and Sydney each have over 100. These cities are vibrant multicultural hubs with large international student populations.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but you must comply with visa conditions. You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. For visa applications, always consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration advice provider.
Choosing a Diploma of Community Services means committing to a rewarding career helping others. Australia's aged care and disability sectors are growing, creating demand for qualified workers. Consider your passion for social justice, resilience, and cultural sensitivity. Each city offers different opportunities: Adelaide has a tight-knit community sector, Brisbane has strong government support, Melbourne offers diverse non-profit networks, and Sydney has many private providers. Factor in living costs and lifestyle: Adelaide is more affordable, while Sydney and Melbourne are bustling. Talk to current students or attend open days at Ikon Institute to get a feel for the course.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses. You can filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and city (Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney) to find similar options.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Contact Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd via www.ikon.edu.au. Submit your application with required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and any prior qualifications. Note application deadlines and any specific entry requirements.
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 apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Consider getting OSHC and preparing for the GTE interview.
Ready to start your journey? Compare community services diplomas at different providers using HeadStart Academy's free search tool.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Proteus Technologies 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.