Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118701B)

Course overview

Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118701B) is a Diploma delivered by Education Training & Employment Australia Pty. Ltd. over 1 year. ETEA is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02925E) with a long history of delivering vocational education and training. This course equips students with skills to support individuals and communities, addressing social issues and promoting well-being. The CRICOS register ensures that international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. As with all courses listed on HeadStart Academy, the data here is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is free from any referral fees or commissions.

What you'll study

The Diploma of Community Services falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (Field of Education 09), specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905). Graduates typically develop competencies in case management, client advocacy, community development, and program coordination. While the exact syllabus is set by ETEA, students can expect to learn about ethical practice, cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and working with diverse populations. This diploma prepares you for roles such as community services worker, case manager, or welfare officer. No specific dual qualification or foundation studies are included, but the course aligns with the national VET qualification CHC52025.

Duration and study mode

This Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual award). There is no foundation studies component. The course is offered as a full-time program across multiple campuses. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments as scheduled by ETEA. The duration includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 200 total hours) which provides practical industry experience. This is a VET course at AQF Level 5, providing a pathway to higher education or direct employment.

Fees (indicative)

The indicative fees for this Diploma of Community Services at Education Training & Employment Australia Pty. Ltd. are as follows: tuition fee of A$18,250, non-tuition fees of A$1,750, resulting in an estimated total of A$20,000. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with ETEA on their website: http://www.etea.edu.au. Additionally, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in these figures. International students should budget for these separately. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.

Entry requirements

General entry requirements for this Diploma include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for AQF Level 5 typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or relevant work experience. ETEA may also consider recognition of prior learning (RPL). Foundation or pathway options may be available; please contact ETEA directly for specific details. It is important to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for your student visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.

Work component

Yes, this course includes a work component of 5 weeks, 40 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This is a form of work-integrated learning, typically involving an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in community services settings. Students gain hands-on experience under professional supervision, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. This component is an integral part of the course and helps develop practical skills valued by employers. It may be scheduled at various times during the year; check with ETEA for placement details.

Delivery locations

This Diploma of Community Services is delivered at four ETEA campuses across Australia: 1) Heidelberg campus at 113 Burgundy Street, Heidelberg, VIC 3084. Heidelberg is a suburb of Melbourne with good public transport access and a range of student accommodation options. 2) Parramatta campus at 21 Argyle Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150. Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Western Sydney, home to many international students and offering affordable living options compared to Sydney CBD. 3) Adelaide campus at Level 2, East, 50 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, SA 5000. Adelaide is known for its lower cost of living and vibrant student community. 4) Canning Vale campus at Unit 4, 78-84 Catalano Circuit, Canning Vale, WA 6155. Canning Vale is a suburb of Perth, with convenient transport links. Each city has numerous CRICOS-registered providers, with Melbourne and Sydney having the highest concentration. Living costs vary: typical weekly rent ranges from A$200 in Adelaide to A$350 in Sydney (shared accommodation). Students should factor in travel and grocery costs.

Student visa

International students studying this Diploma of Community Services will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, with unlimited work during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Education Training & Employment Australia Pty. Ltd.:

1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (choose from Heidelberg, Parramatta, Adelaide, or Canning Vale). Compare courses and ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (ETEA is CRICOS 02925E).

2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ETEA's website (http://www.etea.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English language tests accepted, and application deadlines. Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport, and Statement of Purpose). Submit your application through ETEA's portal or via an authorised education agent.

3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once ETEA accepts your application, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to support your journey—no referral fees, no commission.

Explore Diploma of Community Services at ETEA and start your Australian study journey with HeadStart Academy.

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