Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118770M) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd over 2 years. This AQF Level 5 qualification, with VET national code CHC52025, is designed to equip students with the skills to support individuals and communities in need. It is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring international students receive the full protections of the ESOS Act. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (April 2026), and this course is delivered at the provider's HAYMARKET campus in Sydney, NSW. With a strong work-integrated learning component and a focus on Human Welfare Studies and Services, graduates are prepared for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare CRICOS-registered courses like this one—all data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118770M) is a Diploma level course (AQF Level 5) offered by Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03665A). The course falls under the field of education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services (n.e.c.). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. The course is delivered in English and includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (20 hours per week, approximately 400 total hours) providing hands-on industry experience. This course is ideal for international students seeking to make a meaningful impact in community services while gaining an Australian qualification recognised by employers.
As a Diploma of Community Services student, you will develop advanced skills in case management, community development, and client advocacy. The curriculum covers topics such as human welfare services, social policy, counselling, and working with diverse populations. Graduates at this level are trained to design and implement programs that address social issues, manage complex cases, and support vulnerable individuals and families. While specific units are determined by the provider, the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services typically includes modules on trauma-informed practice, mental health support, and community engagement. This knowledge prepares you for roles such as community service worker, case manager, or welfare officer.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English by Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd. There is no dual qualification or foundation study component; this is a standalone Diploma. Students are expected to attend classes at the HAYMARKET campus in Sydney. The study mode is face-to-face, with a strong emphasis on practical learning through the work component. This structure allows international students to gain both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience in Australia's community services sector.
Course fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Diploma of Community Services (118770M) at Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd, the tuition fee is A$36,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$600, totalling an estimated A$36,600. These fees may change—always confirm directly with the provider. Other costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge. Indicative living costs in Sydney (where HAYMARKET is located) are approximately A$600–800 per week for rent, A$100–150 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. For current fee information, visit the provider's website.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Community Services are set by Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd. Generally, international students need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and evidence of prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or Certificate IV. Since this is a Diploma (AQF Level 5), applicants are typically expected to have completed a Certificate IV or have relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available—contact the provider for details. Note that meeting minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission; all applications are assessed individually. For visa purposes, you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, with 20 hours per week (approximately 400 total hours). This work-integrated learning is designed to give students practical experience in community services settings. It may involve an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in organisations such as community health centres, aged care facilities, or welfare agencies. The placement allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, build professional networks, and meet the requirements for graduation. The provider coordinates the work component to ensure it aligns with the course learning outcomes.
Diploma of Community Services is delivered at Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd's campus in HAYMARKET, NSW 2000. Haymarket is a vibrant suburb in inner-city Sydney, known for its multicultural atmosphere and proximity to Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is well-served by public transport, including Central Station (a 10-minute walk), light rail, and multiple bus routes. Living in Sydney offers students access to world-class amenities, but the cost of living is higher than in other Australian cities. Indicative weekly expenses in Sydney: rent A$600–800, groceries A$100–150, transport A$40–50.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent), sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a genuine intention to temporarily stay in Australia (GTE requirement). Once in Australia, visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain your OSHC for the entire duration of your stay. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a popular destination for international students. It offers a diverse, multicultural environment with excellent educational and employment opportunities. The city boasts a strong community services sector, with many NGOs, government agencies, and private providers. However, the cost of living is among the highest in Australia. Haymarket, in particular, is a bustling urban centre with easy access to public transport, restaurants, and shopping. If you prefer a more affordable or quieter lifestyle, consider regional NSW, which has lower living costs and additional visa benefits. HeadStart Academy can help you compare courses across different locations using the CRICOS register.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to search for Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118770M) and compare providers. You can filter by course level, field, and city (e.g., HAYMARKET). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Ensure you meet the entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications) and submit your application directly to Australian Professional Education Group Pty Ltd. Check application deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the provider issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Professional Education Group 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.