Are you an international student seeking to study a Diploma of Community Services in Australia? The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118750D) is an AQF Level 5 Diploma delivered by Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03523D), SDL Academy offers a comprehensive program in Human Welfare Studies and Services (Field 090599), preparing graduates for roles such as community worker, case manager, or welfare support officer. The course includes a substantial work component of 12 weeks (420 hours), providing real-world experience. With campuses in Melbourne CBD and Bankstown, NSW, students can choose a study location that suits their lifestyle. HeadStart Academy presents this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Always verify details with the provider before applying.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118750D) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03523D). The course is classified under the field of education 090599 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c., which covers a range of community services disciplines. Over 2 years (104 weeks), students develop skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and client support. The course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (420 hours) in an industry placement, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real community service settings. This qualification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and carries the VET national code CHC52025. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment, ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and providing tuition protection. Graduates can pursue careers in community organisations, government agencies, or non-profits, or further study in social work or welfare.
The Diploma of Community Services focuses on the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services. Students learn to work with individuals, families, and communities to improve wellbeing and social outcomes. Typical subjects include case management, community development, advocacy, mental health support, and ethical practice. The curriculum is designed to build practical skills in assessment, planning, and intervention. While specific course content is set by SDL Academy, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate competence in managing complex cases, coordinating services, and promoting social justice. The course emphasises work-integrated learning through a 12-week industry placement, where students gain hands-on experience under supervision. This field of education aligns with Australia's growing demand for community service workers, particularly in aged care, disability support, and mental health.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) as indicated on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies component is offered. Students attend classes at either the Melbourne campus (166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000) or the Bankstown campus (Suite 603, Level 6, 2 Meredith St, Bankstown NSW 2200). The course is likely delivered in a face-to-face mode, though students should confirm delivery methods directly with the provider. The duration is standard for a Diploma-level program, allowing sufficient time for theoretical study and the embedded work placement.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, yielding an estimated total of A$21,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. Living costs vary by location: in Melbourne, students may need approximately A$450-600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport; in Bankstown (Sydney), costs are similar. Always verify current fees directly with Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd at their website: http://www.scsb.nsw.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
For international students, the general English language requirement for this course is an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate III in a related field. Prior work experience may also be considered. As this is a Diploma (AQF Level 5), students should have the academic skills to undertake higher education study. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact SDL Academy directly for details. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually. For visa purposes, students must demonstrate English proficiency and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, totalling approximately 420 hours (based on 35 hours per week). This is an industry placement or internship where students apply their learning in a real community service organisation. The placement provides valuable practical experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to develop professional competencies under supervision. Work-integrated learning is a key feature of many Australian vocational qualifications, enhancing employability. Students are typically responsible for arranging their own placement, with support from the provider. The placement is unpaid and must comply with visa conditions (e.g., work limitations do not apply to mandatory placements if they are part of the course).
The course is delivered at two campuses: - SCSB Melbourne Campus: 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (inner city, near public transport) - Suite 603, Level 6, 2 Meredith St, Bankstown NSW 2200 (a suburb of Sydney, accessible by train and bus) Melbourne is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community with a multicultural atmosphere. Bankstown, in Sydney's southwest, has a growing student population and lower living costs compared to the city centre. Both locations provide access to community service organisations for placements. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Melbourne offers arts and culture, while Bankstown is closer to Sydney's beaches and business districts.
International students studying this course on a student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. All students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — applicants must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. Financial capacity must be shown to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act provides consumer protection, including tuition assurance and complaint handling. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Browse courses on HeadStart Academy to compare community services diplomas by location, fees, and duration. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (SDL Academy is CRICOS 03523D).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd. Provide evidence of English proficiency, prior qualifications, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. Check application deadlines and any prerequisite requirements.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC and prepare for your move to Australia.
When choosing a campus, consider your personal preferences and career goals. Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital with a diverse international student population and excellent public transport. The CBD campus is near Flinders Street Station and tram lines. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate: expect around A$450-550 per week for rent (shared accommodation), A$80-100 for groceries, and A$40-50 for transport. Bankstown, in Sydney's southwest, offers a more affordable lifestyle with weekly rent around A$350-450. It is connected by train to Sydney's CBD (30 minutes). Both cities have strong community services sectors, but opportunities may vary. Research local industry connections at SDL Academy's campuses to align with your career aspirations.
Ready to take the next step? Research more CRICOS-registered community services courses or contact SDL Academy directly.
View the full Student Development and Learning (SDL) Academy Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Student Development and Learning (SDL) 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.