Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118319H) is a Diploma delivered by Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This VET qualification (CHC52021) at AQF Level 5 falls under the field of Social Work (090501) and prepares graduates for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. Based in Melbourne, the course combines theoretical learning with a mandatory 300-hour work placement, giving international students hands-on experience in Australia’s community sector. The indicative total cost is A$27,500 (tuition A$25,000 plus non-tuition fees of A$2,500). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act and can access the Australian student visa (Subclass 500) upon enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). For current fees and entry requirements, always confirm directly with Auscanus Institute.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118319H) is a 2-year full-time course registered with CRICOS under provider Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04062J). This diploma is classified under the field of Society and Culture (09) – Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) – Social Work (090501). As a VET qualification (national code CHC52021), it is designed to equip students with the skills to support vulnerable individuals and communities, including case management, advocacy, program coordination, and community development. The course is delivered in English and does not include foundation or dual qualification options. With a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (300 hours), students gain practical experience through industry placement. This ensures graduates are job-ready for roles such as community services worker, case manager, or social welfare advocate. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses; this course is one example of the high-quality VET options available to international students.
While specific syllabi evolve, the Diploma of Community Services (Social Work field) typically covers topics such as ethical practice, case management, community development, mental health support, and working with diverse populations. Students learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, coordinate services, and advocate for social justice. The course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, culminating in the required work placement. At this AQF Level 5, graduates are expected to exercise initiative and judgement in planning and implementing community service interventions. The curriculum aligns with industry standards set by the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) and prepares students for roles in government agencies, non-profits, and private community organisations. International students benefit from exposure to Australia’s unique multicultural context and welfare system.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The mode of study is full-time, face-to-face at the Melbourne campus. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation components). Students are expected to attend lectures, tutorials, and workshops, and complete the mandatory work component. The course structure typically includes 8 semesters of study, with breaks aligning with the Australian academic calendar. The duration allows international students to fully immerse in their studies while also benefiting from the 48 hours per fortnight work rights during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions).
The indicative fees for the Diploma of Community Services at Auscanus Institute are as follows: tuition fee of A$25,000 (total for the course), non-tuition fees of A$2,500 (covering materials, administration, etc.), giving an estimated total of A$27,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution – they may change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For a single student in Melbourne, indicative weekly costs are: rent (shared) A$200–$350, groceries A$60–$100, transport A$30–$50. Always confirm the most up-to-date fees with Auscanus Institute via their website (www.auscanus.edu.au) before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we provide this information as a free resource.
International applicants typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent test). Additionally, students should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent – prior qualifications in a related field may be beneficial. As this is a diploma (AQF Level 5), some prior study at certificate level or relevant work experience may be expected. However, exact entry requirements are set by Auscanus Institute and may vary. For pathway options (e.g., English language courses or foundation programs), refer directly to the provider. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission – always check the institution's website or contact their admissions team. All CRICOS-registered courses must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring transparent and fair admission processes.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, totalling approximately 300 hours at 37.5 hours per week. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of an industry placement or internship in a community service organisation. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, developing practical skills under supervision. Placements may occur in aged care, disability services, mental health support, housing services, or community development agencies. The provider assists in arranging placements, but students may also source their own (subject to approval). This experience is invaluable for building a professional network and enhancing employability in Australia’s community services sector. All placements must comply with workplace health and safety regulations and any relevant screening requirements (e.g., Working with Children Check).
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at the Melbourne campus of Auscanus Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 150 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting the campus to surrounding suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are among Australia’s most competitive for a major city – indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–$400, with groceries costing around A$70–$100. The city’s diverse population and strong community services sector provide ample opportunities for networking and future employment. Studying in Melbourne also means access to ESOS protections, student support services, and a vibrant cultural scene.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Auscanus Institute, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of sufficient funds (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and English proficiency (IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled holidays. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory – approximate cost is A$600–$800 per year. Visa conditions may also require maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not working before course commencement. For detailed guidance, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice – this information is a general guide only.
Applying for the Diploma of Community Services at Auscanus Institute involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that Auscanus Institute (CRICOS 04062J) and course 118319H are current. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Melbourne).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Auscanus Institute’s website (www.auscanus.edu.au) or contact their admissions team. Submit required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and any relevant experience. Ensure you meet entry requirements and application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing times vary – apply early.
HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource – we do not charge referral fees or process applications.
Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a top destination for international students, with over 200,000 enrolled across 150+ CRICOS-registered providers. The city boasts excellent public transport, a multicultural population, and a strong job market in community services. Indicative living costs: weekly rent A$250–$400 (shared), groceries A$70–$100, and transport A$40–$60. Student support services are widely available. However, consider that Melbourne has a cooler climate than northern cities. For community services students, the city offers diverse placement opportunities in government and non-profit organisations. Ultimately, your choice should align with personal preferences and career goals – use HeadStart Academy’s resources to compare locations and providers.
Ready to start your Diploma of Community Services? Explore your study options in Melbourne and apply directly to Auscanus Institute. Visit headstartacademy.com.au for more CRICOS-registered courses.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Auscanus Institute of Australia 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.