Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 117731D) is a Diploma delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification sits within the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090500) and prepares graduates for roles in community services, case management, and support work. Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04354H) is a private registered provider based in Melbourne, offering this course at its Lonsdale Street campus. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act and must study with a registered provider. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you have accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you are planning your career in community services or seeking a pathway to further study, this Diploma provides both theoretical knowledge and practical work-integrated learning.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 117731D) is a two-year program delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd. It is classified under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Level 5, and its VET national code is CHC52021. The course is designed to equip students with the skills required to design, coordinate, and deliver person-centred services to individuals, groups, and communities. Graduates typically find employment in community organisations, government agencies, or non-profits. The field of education is Society and Culture (09), with a specific focus on Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). This course does not offer a dual qualification or foundation studies, but it does include a mandatory work component. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets all Australian Government standards for international students.
The Diploma of Community Services covers a broad range of topics within human welfare and community services. Students learn about case management, advocacy, community development, ethical practice, and legal frameworks. The curriculum typically includes units on working with diverse populations, trauma-informed care, and program coordination. While HeadStart Academy does not prescribe a specific syllabus, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate advanced judgement, communication, and project management skills. The course aligns with industry standards and prepares students for roles such as community services coordinator, support worker, or case manager. Practical skills are emphasised through the work-integrated learning component, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
The course runs for 104 weeks (2 years) as listed on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification—no dual award or foundation studies are included. Students attend classes at the Melbourne campus, with a combination of classroom learning and supervised work placement. The full-time study load typically meets student visa requirements. Studying in Melbourne offers access to a vibrant international student community, with over 150,000 international students across the city's many institutions. Public transport is easily accessible from the campus, located in the CBD. Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and affordable living compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly costs of around $350–$500 for rent, $80–$130 for groceries, and $40–$60 for transport.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$27,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,900, bringing the estimated total to A$28,900. Please note these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd—they are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,000 per year for a single student), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider. For accurate and up-to-date information, visit Victorian Skills College's official website.
International students are typically expected to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall. Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent, and may need prior experience or a Certificate IV in a related field. Specific entry requirements are set by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd—contact the provider for precise criteria. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the academic or English requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with the institution for alternative entry pathways.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting. It provides valuable hands-on experience and is supervised by qualified professionals. The placement helps students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts and build professional networks. Completion of the work component is essential for graduation.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at Level 4, 398 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000. This campus is in Melbourne's central business district, close to Flinders Street Station and numerous tram and bus routes. Melbourne is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, making it a top choice for international students. The city's cost of living is moderate, with student-friendly accommodation options and a thriving cultural scene.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa application requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and travel), and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent—consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Community Services at Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the right fit. Verify that Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04354H) offers the course you need. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Victorian Skills College website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, passport, English test results). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Seek assistance from a registered migration agent if needed.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victorian Skills 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.