Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118772J) is a Diploma delivered by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 5) equips you with the skills to support individuals and communities across a range of human welfare settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Harbourside Institute is a private provider located in Sydney, NSW, offering this program at two campuses: Ultimo and Pyrmont. Whether you aim to work in case management, community development, or social services, this diploma provides a solid foundation. With a work component of 280 hours, you'll gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no commission or referral fees — helping you compare over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ registered providers.
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The Diploma of Community Services (118772J) is a vocational qualification in the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (Field of Education 090599). It is designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in community services work, including assessment, case management, and advocacy. Graduates often pursue roles as community service workers, case coordinators, or welfare support officers. This program is delivered on campus at Harbourside Institute's Sydney locations. As a CRICOS-registered course (through provider CRICOS 03670D), it ensures compliance with the ESOS Act, meaning international students have full legal protections. The course is single qualification (no dual or foundation study) and taught entirely in English. The VET national code for this course is CHC52025, confirming its alignment with national training packages.
While specific subjects are determined by the provider, a Diploma of Community Services at this level typically covers case management, community development, ethical practice, and working with diverse populations. Students learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, and coordinate services. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, including communication skills, legal and policy frameworks, and self-care strategies. Graduates are prepared to work in government agencies, non-profits, and private community organisations. Note that this description is general guidance — always confirm exact units of study with Harbourside Institute.
This course has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is delivered on a full-time basis, with English as the language of instruction. No dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. The indicative total duration includes both classroom learning and the work component. Study modes may include face-to-face classes at the Ultimo and Pyrmont campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are set by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. According to the CRICOS register, indicative tuition is A$24,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,800, resulting in an estimated total of A$25,800. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For international students in Sydney, indicative weekly living costs are around A$500–700 (rent, groceries, transport). Always confirm current fees directly with Harbourside Institute, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative figures from the CRICOS register for comparison purposes only.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent English proficiency test). For diploma-level study, applicants usually require completion of Year 12 or equivalent, and may need relevant work experience. Harbourside Institute may have specific prerequisites — check their website. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; contact the provider for alternative entry. English language requirements can also be met through other recognised tests like TOEFL or PTE. Note: These are general guidelines; exact requirements are set by the institution.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component: 14 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This is likely an industry placement or internship in a community services setting, allowing you to apply skills in real-world environments. Work placements may occur in organisations such as aged care facilities, disability support services, or community health centres. The exact nature of the placement is arranged by Harbourside Institute. This component is a structured part of the course and may be subject to provider agreements.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Sydney, NSW: - Harris Street, ULTIMO, NSW - Shop 118, 243 Pyrmont St, PYRMONT NSW 2009 Both locations are in the inner city of Sydney, a major international student hub with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers. These campuses are well-served by public transport, with the Ultimo campus near Central Station and the Pyrmont campus accessible by light rail. Sydney offers a vibrant student lifestyle, but living costs are higher than other Australian cities — expect weekly rent of A$400–600 for shared accommodation.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa requirements — consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for advice. All international students in Australia are protected by the ESOS Act.
Sydney is Australia's largest city, with a diverse population and a strong community services sector. Studying in Sydney means access to numerous placement opportunities, a multicultural environment, and a high standard of living. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers nationally, you have many options — but if you choose this course at Harbourside Institute, you'll be in a central location with good transport links. Consider your budget, career goals, and lifestyle preferences before deciding.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Human Welfare Studies), and location (Sydney). Confirm that the provider (Harbourside Institute, CRICOS 03670D) and course (118772J) meet your needs. 2. **Apply directly to Harbourside Institute** – Visit their website at www.harbourside.nsw.edu.au to check specific entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your community services career? Explore Diploma of Community Services at Harbourside Institute and begin your application today.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Harbourside Institute of Australia 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.