Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118749H) is a Diploma delivered by Transformations - Pathways to Competence and Developing Excellence Pty Ltd over 1 year 11 months (~101 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification, classified under field 090599 Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c., equips graduates with skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03521F), it meets Australian standards for international students. Whether you aim to work in aged care, disability support, or community development, this diploma provides a practical pathway into the growing community services sector. HeadStart Academy helps you navigate CRICOS data, visa requirements, and provider details—all free and independent.
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This Diploma focuses on human welfare studies and services, covering topics such as case management, community development, advocacy, and ethical practice. Graduates typically learn to assess client needs, coordinate services, and implement support programs to improve wellbeing. While specific units are set by the provider, the qualification aims to develop leadership and communication skills essential for roles in community service organisations. The field of education (09 - Society and Culture) ensures a broad understanding of social structures and human behaviour, preparing students for diverse roles in the sector.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 1 year 11 months (~101 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies attached). The provider, Transformations - Pathways to Competence and Developing Excellence Pty Ltd, offers this course at their Melbourne campuses. International students should ensure they can maintain full-time study load to meet visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$22,000, with non-tuition fees of A$600, bringing the estimated total to A$22,600. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for a single student in Melbourne), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at skillstraining.edu.au, as fees are set by institutions and subject to change.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements for Diploma-level study. Prior qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV in a related field are generally expected. If you do not meet these, the provider may offer foundation or pathway options—check with Transformations - Pathways to Competence and Developing Excellence Pty Ltd directly. All entrants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa (Subclass 500).
This course includes a mandatory work component: 16 weeks of placement at 25 hours per week, totalling approximately 400 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically involves supervised industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in community service organisations such as aged care facilities, disability support centres, or non-profit agencies. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gain Australian work experience, and build professional networks. It is a key part of the qualification and may require students to obtain police checks or vaccination clearances.
This course is delivered at the following CRICOS-registered locations: Bourke St Campus (Level 7, 628 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000) and Level 1, 7, 8 (same address). Both are in the Melbourne CBD, easily accessible by public transport (trains, trams, buses). Melbourne is Victoria's capital, home to over 160,000 international students and more than 300 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are among Australia's highest, with indicative weekly rent around A$350–A$500 for a share house, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$45 (myki pass). The city offers diverse cultural experiences and strong employment opportunities in community services.
International students studying this Diploma will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Transformations, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$29,710 per year for a single student) and OSHC, as well as meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). All CRICOS-registered courses provide ESOS Act protections, ensuring tuition assurance and refund safeguards. OSHC is mandatory—learn more at /visa/oshc-health-cover.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and location (Melbourne). Compare providers and confirm CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications), prepare documents, and submit your application through the provider's website (skillstraining.edu.au). Meet application deadlines and await an offer letter. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice—consult a registered MARA agent if needed.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination with over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The community services sector is strong, with demand for qualified workers in health, aged care, and social assistance. Public transport is extensive, but living costs are high—budget accordingly. Consider climate, culture, and job market when deciding. Explore more study options in Victoria at /study/diploma/vic and /states/vic.
Ready to start your community services journey? Check the latest fees and apply at skillstraining.edu.au or explore more Diploma courses in Victoria.
View the full Transformations - Pathways to Competence and Developing Excellence Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Transformations - Pathways to Competence and Developing Excellence 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.