Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118756J) is a Diploma delivered by Learning Lab Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed to prepare students for roles in community services, case management, and social welfare. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. Learning Lab Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03576B) is a private provider based in Sydney, offering this course at its campus at 269 Sussex Street. The course is part of the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905), and its VET national code is CHC52025. International students undertaking this course can benefit from work-integrated learning with a 22-week work component, gaining practical experience in the Australian community services sector. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commission or referral fees.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118756J) is a Diploma-level qualification (AQF Level 5) delivered by Learning Lab Pty Ltd. The course spans 2 years (104 weeks) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program includes a mandatory work component of 22 weeks at 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 330 hours of industry placement. This work-integrated learning allows students to apply their skills in real-world community service settings, preparing them for roles such as community service worker, case worker, or welfare support officer. The course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' and specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services', focusing on supporting individuals and communities in need. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, Diploma-level courses in Human Welfare Studies and Services typically cover topics such as case management, community development, advocacy, counselling skills, and working with diverse populations. Students learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, and navigate social welfare systems. The field of education encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work in community services. Graduates are prepared to work in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and private sector social services. At this level, students are expected to demonstrate initiative and judgement in planning and implementing community service programs.
The Diploma of Community Services is a 2-year course (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or embedded foundation studies component. Students should expect full-time study to meet the course requirements. The course is delivered at the provider's campus, with a work component that may take place in external community service organisations.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$30,000 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$750, making the estimated total fee A$30,750. Please note that these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Learning Lab Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included in the tuition are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website.
International students applying for the Diploma of Community Services are generally expected to have an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.0 (or equivalent test scores). Additionally, students typically need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent, or have relevant work experience. Some providers may require completion of a Certificate IV in Community Services or a related field. For the most accurate and current entry requirements, contact Learning Lab Pty Ltd directly. The provider may offer pathway or foundation options for students who do not meet standard entry requirements — refer to the provider for details. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are covered by the ESOS Act protections.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 22 weeks, with a minimum of 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 330 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) is typically undertaken as an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community service organisation. The placement provides hands-on experience in case management, client assessment, and program delivery under supervision. It is an integral part of the course design, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting and develop professional networks in the Australian community services sector.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at 269 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse population and a thriving community services sector. The campus is located in the Sydney CBD, easily accessible via public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all fields, making it a popular destination for international students. The city offers a vibrant student life with numerous cultural and recreational opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are generally higher than other Australian cities, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$100, and public transport A$40–A$50. These figures are approximate and subject to change.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and includes work rights: you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Learning Lab Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Learning Lab Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03576B) is registered to deliver this course. Filter by course level, field, and location to ensure the course meets your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Learning Lab Pty Ltd to submit your application. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results, and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements carefully.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial requirements.
Sydney is a multicultural hub with a high demand for community service professionals. However, it is also one of Australia's most expensive cities. Consider your budget for living costs, including rent, transport, and food. The course includes a work placement, which can help you gain local experience. The community services sector in Sydney is diverse, with opportunities in aged care, disability support, child protection, and mental health. As an international student, you must comply with visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment and attendance. The provider, Learning Lab Pty Ltd, is a private college with a dedicated campus in the city centre. Always check the provider's current registration status and latest reviews.
Ready to start your journey in community services? Explore your options on HeadStart Academy and apply to a CRICOS-registered provider today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Learning Lab 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.