Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118685H) is a Diploma delivered by Focal Holdings Pty Ltd over 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, preparing graduates for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. Focal Holdings Pty Ltd (CRICOS 01497F) is a private provider offering this course at its Bankstown campus in New South Wales. The course includes a work component of 13 weeks (20 hours per week) for practical industry experience. Indicative total fees are A$20,000 (tuition A$19,200 + non-tuition A$800). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource – data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This Diploma of Community Services is categorised under the field of education 090599 – Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c. (within Society and Culture). At the Diploma level (AQF Level 5), students typically develop broad knowledge and skills for paraprofessional work, including understanding social policy, case management, community development, and client advocacy. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates can expect to be prepared for roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. The course emphasises practical application through a mandatory work component, ensuring readiness for the Australian community services sector.
According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 1 year 12 months (~102 weeks) – exactly 102 weeks. It is delivered in English and leads to a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Students should check with Focal Holdings Pty Ltd for details on delivery mode (e.g., full-time on-campus, blended learning). The course code on the vocational register is CHC52025.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register are as follows: tuition A$19,200, non-tuition fees A$800, estimated total A$20,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are NOT included. All fees are subject to change – always confirm current fees directly with Focal Holdings Pty Ltd via their website www.tibc.nsw.edu.au. HeadStart Academy displays these figures as a guide only, sourced from the official register.
General entry requirements for this Diploma level include an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants typically need to demonstrate completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications or experience in a related field may be considered. There may be foundation or pathway options available – refer to Focal Holdings Pty Ltd for specific requirements. Always check the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course includes a compulsory work component: 13 weeks, 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 260 hours. This work-integrated learning may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting. It provides real-world experience and helps students apply theoretical knowledge, build professional networks, and meet qualification requirements. Students should consult the provider for placement arrangement details and any associated costs.
The course is delivered at 44 Raymond Street, Bankstown NSW 2200 (BANKSTOWN, NSW). Bankstown is a vibrant suburb in South-Western Sydney, with a large multicultural community and excellent public transport connections (train and bus). Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average – indicative weekly rent for a share house is around A$250–A$350, groceries A$100–A$150, and transport A$40–A$60 (subject to change). Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses.
International students enrolling in this course will typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of the stay, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (currently A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses offer ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee protection.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a global hub for education, with a diverse student population and extensive public transport. However, living costs are high. For community services students, Sydney offers numerous placement opportunities in diverse communities. Consider your budget, climate preferences, and lifestyle. New South Wales has over 500 CRICOS providers and more than 8,000 courses on the register.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Focal Holdings Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy and the official CRICOS website to verify registration (CRICOS 01497F) and compare courses. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English language, academic qualifications), prepare documents (transcripts, passport, personal statement), and submit your application before deadlines. Focal Holdings may have specific intake dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Then lodge a visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs, paying the visa application charge (currently A$710 for most applicants). Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to start your community services career? Explore Focal Holdings Pty Ltd via the official CRICOS register or visit their website for current fees and intake dates.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Focal Holdings 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.