Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118794C) is a Diploma delivered by LEARNVAULT PTY LTD over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code CHC52025, is designed for individuals seeking to work in community services, case management, and social welfare. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03854G), LEARNVAULT meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course includes a compulsory work component of 10 weeks (20 hours per week), giving you practical experience in the field. Whether you choose to study in Launceston or Melbourne, you'll gain skills to support vulnerable populations and contribute to community well-being. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — we are not a registered migration agent and do not offer immigration advice.
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This Diploma falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' (specifically 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services). Students explore human behaviour, social issues, and community support strategies. Typical learning outcomes include developing skills to assess client needs, coordinate services, advocate for rights, and manage casework. While the exact syllabus is set by LEARNVAULT, graduates are prepared for roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. The curriculum aligns with AQF Level 5, emphasising practical application and ethical practice. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, ensuring a wide range of study options.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or combined award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, meeting student visa requirements. The standard study load allows international students to maintain their visa compliance while gaining a comprehensive education in community services.
Tuition fees are A$24,000 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees (including enrolment, materials, and admin) are A$1,450, bringing the estimated total to A$25,450. These are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register and may change. Always confirm current fees directly with LEARNVAULT by visiting their website: www.afcollege.edu.au. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For example, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$500–$700 per year, and living costs in Melbourne are around A$1,500–$2,000 per month (rent, food, transport). These are estimates only.
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) to demonstrate English proficiency. Prior qualifications such as a Certificate III or IV in Community Services or a related field may be expected. LEARNVAULT may also require relevant work experience or a formal assessment. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact the provider for details. Meeting academic entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; the Department of Home Affairs assesses the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity.
The course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This industry placement or internship is designed to give you hands-on experience in community service settings such as NGOs, government agencies, or support centres. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The placement is supervised and aligned with your studies, helping you build professional networks and practical skills.
The course is delivered at two campuses: Level 1, 126 Charles Street Launceston TAS 7250, and Level 5 234-250 Collins St Melbourne VIC 3000. Launceston offers a smaller city experience with lower living costs (approx. $1,200–$1,500 per month) and a close-knit student community. Melbourne is a major metropolitan hub with over 200,000 international students, extensive public transport, and higher living costs (approx. $1,800–$2,500 per month). Both campuses are in central locations with good access to amenities. Tasmania has fewer registered providers than Victoria, making LEARNVAULT a key option for community services study in the region.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory academic progress, and holding valid OSHC. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and dependents (if applicable). HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition protection and refund rights.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Community Services), and city (Launceston or Melbourne) to find CRICOS-registered institutions like LEARNVAULT PTY LTD. Verify their CRICOS code (03854G) and course listing (118794C).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact LEARNVAULT to receive an application form. Submit your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any required documents. Meet application deadlines and entry requirements. The provider will assess your eligibility and issue a Letter of Offer.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you accept the offer and pay the required deposit, LEARNVAULT will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and funds for living costs. Wait for a visa decision before travelling to Australia.
Choosing between Launceston and Melbourne depends on your lifestyle preferences and budget. Launceston offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with a strong community feel. Tasmania has around 20 CRICOS-registered providers, giving you a focused study environment. Melbourne is a global city with diverse cultures, extensive public transport, and a bustling student life. Over 200,000 international students choose Melbourne each year, and there are over 500 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria. Living costs are higher, but part-time work and internship opportunities are more abundant. Consider your career goals: Launceston may suit those seeking regional work experience, while Melbourne offers broader networking. Both campuses are in accessible city centres, making daily commutes easy.
Ready to start your community services career in Australia? Explore CRICOS-registered providers and courses on HeadStart Academy today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at LEARNVAULT 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.