Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118740F) is a Diploma delivered by The Canberra Training School Pty. Ltd. over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares students for roles in human welfare, community development, and social services. Graduates gain skills to support individuals and groups facing challenges such as homelessness, mental health issues, and disability. The course belongs to the field of Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services) and aligns with the national VET code CHC52025. With multiple delivery locations across Canberra and Sydney, this program offers flexibility for international students. The Canberra Training School (CRICOS 03465J) is a private provider committed to quality vocational education. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring their rights are safeguarded. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we provide this information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Below, find detailed information on fees, entry requirements, work component, and how to apply.
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The Diploma of Community Services covers topics such as case management, advocacy, community development, and counseling. Students learn to work with diverse populations, understand social policy, and develop practical intervention strategies. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates are prepared for roles in community health, aged care, and family support services. This field of education focuses on human welfare studies and services, equipping students with the skills to assess needs, plan programs, and support vulnerable individuals. The course emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and collaboration with community organisations.
The course runs for 78 weeks (1 year 6 months) on a full-time basis. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes on campus according to the provider's schedule. The duration is fixed on the CRICOS register, ensuring a structured learning pathway.
Tuition: A$22,000; Non-tuition: A$500; Estimated total: A$22,500. Note: These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,000 per year for a single student), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with The Canberra Training School at http://cbtc.edu.au/. The provider may also charge for materials or resources not listed.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require relevant work experience. Refer to The Canberra Training School for specific entry criteria and possible pathway options. For English language proficiency, alternative tests such as TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic may be accepted. It is essential to check the provider's website for the most current requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This work-integrated learning (industry placement) provides real-world experience in community services settings, such as NGOs, government agencies, or aged care facilities. Placements are supervised and assessed, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. The placement enhances employability and meets industry standards.
The course is delivered at multiple locations: 75 Gozzard Street Gungahlin ACT 2913 (Belconnen), Belconnen Churches Centre, CBTC - Braddon - 100 Northbourne Ave (Braddon), CBTC Braddon, and CBTC Sydney - 24-32 Lexington Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153. These campuses span Canberra's suburbs and Sydney's northwest. Canberra, as Australia's capital, offers a high quality of life with affordable student accommodation (weekly rent around A$250-400 shared). Public transport connects all campuses. Bella Vista campus is near Norwest Business Park, with good transport links. The cost of living in Sydney is higher, so budget accordingly.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. This visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For comprehensive guidance, refer to our student visa guide. Remember that HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Canberra is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering community services courses. With a student population exceeding 50,000, the city offers a safe environment and strong community networks. The cost of living is moderate: weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$300-400, groceries about A$80-100, and public transport A$40-50. Many government and non-profit organisations in Canberra offer placement opportunities. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Gungahlin and Belconnen are family-friendly suburbs, while Braddon is close to the city center. This diversity allows you to choose a campus that fits your needs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Community Services at The Canberra Training School: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Community Services), and location (ACT). Compare providers and their offerings. 2. Apply directly to The Canberra Training School: Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy) and submit an online application through their website (http://cbtc.edu.au/). Check application deadlines and entry requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Then apply for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Ready to start your Diploma of Community Services journey? Follow our 3-step guide or visit The Canberra Training School's website to apply.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Canberra Training School 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.