Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118739K) is a Diploma delivered by Times Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture (0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services). Graduates develop skills to support individuals and communities facing complex challenges, working in roles such as community service coordinator, case worker, or youth worker. Times Academy (CRICOS 03457J) is a private provider with campuses in Sydney (Level 4, 338 Pitt Street) and Melbourne (Sussex Street). The course includes a work component of approximately 202 hours, giving students practical industry experience. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this program is a trusted pathway for international students seeking to enter the community services sector. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Please note that fees and details are indicative and subject to change; always confirm with the provider.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118739K) is a VET sector qualification (CHC52025) offered by Times Academy Pty Ltd. It is designed to equip students with the advanced skills needed to manage and coordinate community service programs. The course duration is 65 weeks, including a work component. Students will study topics such as case management, community development, advocacy, and legal and ethical frameworks. As an AQF Level 5 diploma, it prepares learners for supervisory roles. Times Academy delivers this program in both Sydney and Melbourne, two major study destinations for international students. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne has more than 180, offering a rich educational environment. The indicative tuition fee is A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling an estimated A$16,000. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application charges. International students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
This diploma covers the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599), focusing on the theory and practice of supporting vulnerable individuals and groups. Typical learning outcomes include understanding social policy, developing intervention strategies, managing risk, and promoting social justice. Students learn to work with diverse populations, including those experiencing homelessness, mental health issues, or domestic violence. The curriculum often integrates practical case studies and simulations. While specific syllabi are set by Times Academy, graduates of similar programs typically gain competencies in leadership, teamwork, and cultural awareness. The course is delivered in English, and students should expect a mix of classroom learning, group projects, and self-directed study. The work component (45 weeks at 5 hours per week) provides supervised industry placement, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings such as community centres or non-profit organisations.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 1 year 3 months (65 weeks as registered on CRICOS). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The course is structured as a full-time program, but specific study mode details (e.g., face-to-face, online, or blended) should be confirmed with Times Academy. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 65-week duration includes scheduled breaks and the work placement component. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for exact timetables and class schedules.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,000 (covering materials, administration, and possibly uniforms). The estimated total is A$16,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Importantly, they exclude Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students. OSHC typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs also vary: in Sydney, the weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$300-450, groceries A$80-150, and transport A$40-60. Melbourne is slightly more affordable, with rent around A$250-400 per week. The Student visa application charge is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). For the most accurate and current fees, always visit the Times Academy Pty Ltd website directly. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees.
Applicants typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). For a Diploma level, prior qualifications such as completion of Year 12 or a Certificate IV in a related field are often expected. However, specific prerequisites are set by Times Academy. Some providers offer foundation or pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements. It is essential to check the provider's website for detailed entry criteria, including any required work experience or prerequisite subjects. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa application. HeadStart Academy advises contacting Times Academy directly or consulting a registered migration agent for personalised guidance.
This course includes a mandatory work component – 45 weeks of 5 hours per week, totalling approximately 202 hours. This is an industry placement (internship or clinical placement) where students gain supervised practical experience in community service settings. Work-integrated learning helps develop real-world skills and enhances employability. Placements may be in aged care facilities, disability support organisations, community health centres, or non-government agencies. Times Academy will assist in arranging placements, but students should be prepared to travel to different locations within Sydney or Melbourne. The work component is integrated into the course schedule and is assessed as part of the qualification. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term on their Student visa, and unlimited during breaks, but this placement is part of the course, not separate employment.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at two campuses: Level 4, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW; and Times Academy (Sussex Street), Melbourne, VIC. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community of around 200,000. The Pitt Street campus is in the CBD, close to public transport (trains, buses, light rail). Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and student-friendly atmosphere, with over 180 CRICOS providers and a student population exceeding 150,000. The Sussex Street campus is centrally located near Flinders Street Station. Both cities offer excellent support services for international students, including housing assistance, legal advice, and health services. When choosing a location, consider living costs, climate, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy's guides for NSW and Victoria provide further details.
Both Sydney and Melbourne offer outstanding opportunities for community services students. Sydney has a higher cost of living but a larger job market in the non-profit and government sectors. Melbourne is slightly more affordable and known for its strong community services network, with many grassroots organisations. Public transport is efficient in both cities, with student concession fares available. Sydney's climate is warmer, while Melbourne has four distinct seasons. Campus facilities and student services vary by provider; check Times Academy's website for details. HeadStart Academy recommends visiting both cities if possible, or researching neighbourhoods near the campuses. Ultimately, your choice should align with your budget, career goals, and personal preferences. Both locations provide a safe, multicultural environment for international students.
International students enrolling in this course need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Times Academy, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Family members on a Student Dependent visa may also have work rights. It is crucial to comply with visa conditions. The Department of Home Affairs website provides detailed information. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Times Academy Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Sydney or Melbourne). Confirm that Times Academy (CRICOS 03457J) meets your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Times Academy's official website to review entry requirements, English test scores, application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application along with academic transcripts, English test results, and any other requested materials.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Times Academy will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of funds ready. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to start your Diploma of Community Services? Follow the steps above to apply or contact Times Academy for more information.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Times Academy 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.