Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118720K) is a Diploma delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares students for roles in community services, including case management, advocacy, and program coordination. The course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, focusing on practical skills to support individuals and communities. With a work-integrated learning component of 200 hours, students gain real-world experience. Whether you're aiming to work in aged care, disability support, or youth services, this diploma offers a pathway to a rewarding career. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trust.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118720K) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03217C), a private provider. The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. The VET national code is CHC52025. The course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours of industry placement. This diploma is registered under CRICOS, meaning it meets Australian Government standards for international students. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This diploma covers core and elective units in community services, including case management, client assessment, advocacy, and program development. The field of education is 090599 Human Welfare Studies and Services (not elsewhere classified), which encompasses skills for working with diverse populations. Graduates learn to design and deliver services that promote well-being, independence, and social inclusion. While specific unit details are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include communication strategies, ethical practice, and crisis intervention. The course emphasises practical application through supervised work placements, preparing students for roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, or support facilitator.
The Diploma of Community Services is offered on a full-time basis over 1 year (52 weeks), as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – it does not combine with another course or include foundation studies. Students should expect a commitment of approximately 20 hours per week of structured learning, plus additional self-study and placement hours. The course is delivered face-to-face at multiple campuses, allowing for hands-on learning and interaction with peers and instructors.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Community Services at Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd is A$15,000. Non-tuition fees are A$1,500, making the estimated total A$16,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For exact fees, always check with the provider. Living costs vary by location: in Melbourne, for example, weekly rent ranges from A$250–A$400, while in Hobart it may be A$200–A$350. Use the Department of Home Affairs' financial capacity guidelines as a benchmark.
International students need to demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band below 5.0–5.5 depending on provider policy). Prior academic qualifications expected for AQF Level 5 typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate IV in a related field. Some providers may accept work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available – contact Central Australian Institute of Technology for details. Always verify specific requirements with the institution, as they can vary.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 10 weeks, 20 hours per week (approx. 200 total hours). This can take the form of industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in community service organisations. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional networks, and gain practical skills. Placements are arranged by the provider and may be in aged care facilities, disability services, community health centres, or non-profit organisations. Students are responsible for meeting any placement prerequisites, such as police checks or vaccinations.
Central Australian Institute of Technology delivers this diploma at four campuses: 45 Murray Street, Hobart (TAS); Central Australian College - Brisbane CBD, Suite 1 Level 1 345 Ann St (QLD); Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd, FOOTSCRAY WEST (VIC); and Level 1, 276 Flinders Street, Melbourne (VIC). Each location offers access to Australia's vibrant student communities. For example, Melbourne has over 150,000 international students and excellent public transport, while Hobart provides a more affordable lifestyle with a growing student population. Brisbane offers a warm climate and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney. Consider your preferences for city size, climate, and career opportunities when choosing a campus.
To study this diploma, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For current visa application charges and policy, visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Community services is a rewarding field with strong demand in Australia. Before enrolling, consider your career goals: do you want to work with children, elderly, or people with disabilities? This diploma can lead to roles in government, NGOs, or private organisations. Also factor in location: each campus offers different lifestyle and job market opportunities. For instance, Melbourne and Brisbane have larger job markets, while Hobart offers a close-knit community. Check the provider's facilities and support services. Remember that ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, you have many options – this diploma at Central Australian Institute is one of them.
Applying is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Central Australian Institute of Technology (CRICOS 03217C) offers the Diploma of Community Services (118720K) at your preferred campus. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and submit your application through the provider's website. Check deadlines and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa via ImmiAccount, ensuring you have OSHC, funds, and GTE evidence.
Ready to start your journey in community services? Follow the how-to-apply steps above or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Central Australian Institute of Technology Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Australian Institute of Technology 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.