Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118717E) is a Diploma delivered by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks). This comprehensive qualification equips you with the skills to support individuals and communities in need, preparing you for roles in case management, community development, and advocacy. Delivered across multiple locations in Queensland and New South Wales, this course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. As an international student, you'll gain practical experience through a work component and benefit from Australia's strong student protections under the ESOS Act. Whether you aspire to work in aged care, disability services, or community outreach, this diploma provides a pathway to meaningful employment. Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to compare courses, check CRICOS registration, and plan your study journey in Australia.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118717E) is a Diploma delivered by ALIF Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks). This qualification is classified under the field of Society and Culture – Human Welfare Studies and Services, focusing on practical skills for supporting diverse populations. Graduates typically learn to assess client needs, develop case plans, coordinate services, and advocate for social justice. The course is offered at AQF Level 5 (Diploma) and carries the VET national code CHC52025. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets strict quality assurance requirements, ensuring your qualification is recognised by Australian employers and further education institutions.
This diploma covers key areas such as community development, case management, counselling techniques, and legal and ethical frameworks. You'll explore topics like trauma-informed care, mental health support, and working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Assessments typically include practical placements, written assignments, and case studies. While specific units may vary, graduates develop competencies in communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness – essential for roles in welfare, community services, and non-profit organisations. The course prepares you for careers as a community worker, case coordinator, or support facilitator.
The program runs for 1 year 6 months (~80 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no combined degree). Full-time study is expected, with a mix of classroom learning, online components, and practical placements. The duration includes the 10-week work component (see Work component section). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions.
Tuition fee: A$22,000 (indicative, per CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees: A$2,000 (including materials, administration). Estimated total: A$24,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Australia vary by city: Brisbane (approx. A$450–600/week rent), Southport (approx. A$400–550), Parramatta (approx. A$500–650), Cairns (approx. A$350–500). Always check the provider's website (www.australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au) for the most current fees.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent is expected. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a certificate IV. Foundation studies or pathway programs are available – contact ALIF Australia for options. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; each application is assessed individually. Always check with the provider for specific prerequisites.
Yes – this course includes a 10-week work component of 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This industry placement gives you real-world experience in community service settings such as aged care facilities, disability support organisations, or community centres. Under supervision, you'll apply classroom learning to practical tasks like client intake, case note writing, and service coordination. Placements are arranged by the provider and may be subject to police checks or vaccinations. The work component is an integral part of the qualification, enhancing your employability upon graduation.
This course is delivered at four campuses: ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (Albert St Brisbane) in Brisbane, QLD; ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (Bay Street, Southport) in SOUTHPORT, QLD; ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (George Street, Parramatta) in PARRAMATTA, NSW; and ALIF Australia Pty Ltd (Lake Street, Cairns) in CAIRNS, QLD. These locations offer diverse study environments. Brisbane and Southport are in Queensland's southeast, with a large student population (over 150,000 international students across QLD). Parramatta is a hub in Western Sydney, close to public transport. Cairns provides a tropical setting with lower living costs. All campuses are accessible via public transport, and each city has a range of student support services.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, provide evidence of English proficiency, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Ensure you have sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs (approx. A$21,041 per year), and travel. ESOS Act protections apply, safeguarding your tuition fees and ensuring course quality. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at ALIF Australia Pty Ltd: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that ALIF Australia (CRICOS 03173K) is CRICOS-registered. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your documents through the provider's website (www.australisinstitute.nsw.edu.au). 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements.
With four delivery locations, you can choose the best environment for your studies. Brisbane (Albert St) is a major student city with over 50,000 international students. Rent averages A$500/week, and public transport is affordable (A$15–20/week student concession). Southport on the Gold Coast is popular for its lifestyle and beaches. Parramatta offers a multicultural community and is well-connected to Sydney's CBD. Cairns is ideal if you prefer a tropical climate and lower living costs (rent ~A$350/week). Each location has CRICOS-registered providers – Brisbane alone has over 100 providers. Consider your budget, climate, and career goals when deciding.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource – no commission, no referral fees. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses. Every CRICOS-registered course is protected by the ESOS Act, guaranteeing quality and consumer rights. You can verify any course's registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
Ready to start your community services career? Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and apply to ALIF Australia today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at ALIF 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.