Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118688E) is a Diploma delivered by Unity College Australia Incorporated over 1 year 6 months (~79 weeks). This qualification is registered under the national VET code CHC52025 and sits within the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and protections under the ESOS Act. Unity College Australia (CRICOS 02160A) is a private provider based in Belconnen, ACT, offering this Diploma with an integrated work component. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) provides this page as a free resource to help you explore your study options in Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, covering over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ providers.
The Diploma of Community Services is designed for individuals seeking to work in the community services sector, focusing on human welfare studies and services. At AQF Level 5, this diploma typically covers case management, advocacy, community development, and support for diverse populations. Students learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and implement programs that promote social justice and individual well-being. The field 090599 (Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.) encompasses a broad range of skills applicable to roles in aged care, disability support, mental health, and family services. While specific subjects are set by the provider, graduates generally emerge with practical competencies in communication, ethical practice, and teamwork. This qualification can serve as a pathway to higher education or direct entry into the workforce. For detailed syllabus information, refer to Unity College Australia's official documentation.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 1 year 6 months (~79 weeks) as recorded in the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program likely involves a combination of classroom-based learning, online components, and practical placements. Given the work component (see below), the schedule may include blocks of study interspersed with placement hours. Students should expect a full-time commitment to meet both academic and placement requirements. Duration may vary depending on the provider's delivery model, so confirm directly with Unity College Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$22,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$800, bringing the estimated total to A$22,800. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$1,000 per year depending on the provider and level of cover. Living costs vary by location; in Canberra (ACT), indicative weekly expenses are approximately A$300–A$450 for rent, A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$40–A$60 for public transport. Always check Unity College Australia's website for the most current fee schedule before applying.
International students applying for the Diploma of Community Services should demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5). Other equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE Academic may also be accepted. Academic requirements typically include completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent overseas qualification). Some providers may require prior study in a related field or relevant work experience. No foundation or pathway options are specified for this course; contact Unity College Australia for details on any bridging programs. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a student visa. For precise entry criteria, consult the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 40 weeks at 10 hours per week (approximately 400 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning (WIL) component, typically involving an industry placement or internship in a community services setting. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Placements may occur in aged care facilities, disability support organisations, community health centres, or non-profit agencies. This practical training is essential for developing professional competencies and often counts towards qualification requirements. The provider arranges placements, but students may need to meet specific prerequisites such as a police check or vaccinations. The work component aligns with the vocational nature of the Diploma and enhances employability upon graduation.
This course is delivered at Unity College Inc - Belconnen, located in Belconnen, Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Belconnen is a major suburb of Canberra, approximately 10 km from the city centre. Canberra has a vibrant student population, with several universities and vocational providers. The city offers good public transport (buses and light rail), making the campus accessible. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with typical weekly rent for a share house around $300–$450. The ACT has a high concentration of community services roles due to government and non-profit operations. Studying in the nation's capital provides unique networking opportunities in policy and advocacy. There are 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, with many offering community services courses in the ACT.
Canberra (ACT) is home to numerous community service organisations, including government agencies, advocacy groups, and not-for-profits. This creates strong employment prospects for graduates. The city has a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and cultural amenities. International students enjoy a safe, inclusive environment. The ACT government supports the sector through various initiatives, meaning internships and job opportunities are plentiful. When considering where to study, factor in the local cost of living and transport. Canberra's student community is growing, with over 30,000 international students from diverse backgrounds. Choosing a CRICOS-registered provider like Unity College Australia ensures your qualification is recognised and your rights are protected under Australian law.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this full-time course. The visa allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance. For more details, see our student visa guide.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Unity College Australia:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Unity College Australia (CRICOS 02160A) is registered for this course (118688E). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Unity College Australia’s website at http://www.unity.edu.au to check entry requirements, English language test options, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test scores, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. For visa assistance, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your journey? Begin by researching CRICOS-registered providers like Unity College Australia on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Unity College Australia Incorporated profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Unity College Australia Incorporated. 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.