Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118684J) is a Diploma delivered by Bendigo Kangan Institute over 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities through human welfare services. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider: 01218G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Graduates gain competencies in case management, advocacy, and community development, preparing them for roles in social work, aged care, and disability services. The course is taught in English and offered at two Victorian campuses — Bendigo and Broadmeadows. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). This resource is free, with no referral fees. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses — this course is one of many pathways to a rewarding career.
This Diploma falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services'. Students explore topics such as social policy, community engagement, and ethical practice. The curriculum typically covers counselling techniques, working with diverse populations, and program coordination. While specific subjects are set by Bendigo Kangan Institute, graduates at this level are prepared to manage complex cases, supervise teams, and contribute to organisational planning. The VET national code CHC52025 ensures alignment with industry standards. ESOS Act protections apply to this course, safeguarding your rights as an international student.
The course runs for 1 year 8 months (~85 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). This full-time program requires a commitment of approximately 20-25 hours per week, including classes and self-study. Studying at Bendigo Kangan Institute means you benefit from structured support services. All durations are verified from the official CRICOS register.
Tuition fees for this Diploma are indicative at A$25,000, with non-tuition fees of A$5,000, bringing the estimated total to A$30,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Bendigo Kangan Institute. Always confirm current fees on the provider's website. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory for student visa holders, living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides these estimates as a guide only.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. For this Diploma level, prior qualifications such as Year 12 or equivalent are expected. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a Certificate IV. Foundation or pathway options may be available — refer to Bendigo Kangan Institute for details. Entry requirements are set by the institution; verify directly before applying. A Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) declaration is also needed for the student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are allowed to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Practical experience may be encouraged but is not part of the course structure.
This course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Bendigo (BENDIGO, VIC) and Broadmeadows Campus (Broadmeadows, VIC). Bendigo is a regional city with a lower cost of living compared to Melbourne; weekly rent averages around $200-$300 for shared accommodation. Broadmeadows is a northern suburb of Melbourne, with easy access to public transport and typical weekly rent of $250-$400. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study environments. When choosing a location, consider lifestyle, transport, and community support.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Current living cost benchmark is A$21,041 per year. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may have work restrictions. The Department of Home Affairs sets all conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Bendigo Kangan Institute:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm CRICOS registration for Bendigo Kangan Institute (01218G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through the provider's website (www.kangan.edu.au) or via an education agent.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, your CoE enables you to lodge a visa application. Include GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence. Seek professional help if needed.
Attention: this is a general guide; always verify with official sources.
Ready to start your community services journey? Explore Bendigo Kangan Institute's courses or contact them for application details.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bendigo Kangan Institute. 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.