Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118801J) is a Diploma delivered by Australian City International College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification, classified under field of education 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, prepares graduates for roles in community service management, case work, and advocacy. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03888H), international students are assured of quality standards under the ESOS Act. With indicative fees of A$31,750 total and a built-in work placement, this Diploma offers a practical pathway to social sector careers. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) so you can trust the information. Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offer over 26,433 courses; this page focuses on one of them at Australian City International College.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118801J) is an AQF Level 5 qualification delivered by Australian City International College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03888H), a private provider established to serve international students. The course spans 2 years (104 weeks) and requires an IELTS level of 5.5-6.0 overall. It falls within the Society and Culture field, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599). This course is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. A work component is included: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours), giving students hands-on experience in community services. The indicative total fee is A$31,750, which covers tuition (A$30,000) and non-tuition fees (A$1,750). Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are separate.
While the specific syllabus is set by Australian City International College, this Diploma level typically covers community service coordination, case management, advocacy, and program development. Students learn to work with diverse populations, manage resources, and address social issues such as homelessness, disability, and mental health. The curriculum aligns with the national training package CHC52025 and emphasises practical skills through the mandatory work placement. Graduates may pursue roles such as community service manager, case coordinator, or welfare support worker. This field is in demand across Australia, particularly in growing cities like Darwin and Parramatta where the provider delivers the course.
The Diploma of Community Services is a full-time course lasting 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification; no dual award or foundation studies components. The course is delivered face-to-face at the provider's campuses. Students should expect a structured timetable with both classroom learning and the integrated work placement. The duration allows ample time for international students to adjust to study in Australia while building professional networks through the placement.
The fees shown are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the provider. For the Diploma of Community Services at Australian City International College Pty Ltd, the fees are: - Tuition: A$30,000 - Non-tuition fees: A$1,750 - Estimated total: A$31,750
Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses – around A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs indicative); and the Student visa (Subclass 500) application charge of A$1,600 (as of 2026). Always confirm current fees directly with Australian City International College on their official website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees and is a free resource.
Entry to the Diploma of Community Services typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, usually IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept alternative tests like PTE or Cambridge English. Prior study in a related field may be considered. There are no mandatory foundation or pathway programs attached to this course, but if you need additional support, ask the provider about available options. All entry decisions are made by Australian City International College; consult their admissions team for precise requirements. Remember, visa eligibility also depends on meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This is an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement (depending on the provider) that gives you real-world experience in community service settings. It is integrated into the course structure to help you apply theoretical knowledge and build professional skills. Placements are arranged by the provider but may require you to have a Working with Children Check or police clearance. This component is a key differentiator, making graduates job-ready. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited during scheduled breaks, which can complement this placement.
Australian City International College Pty Ltd delivers the Diploma of Community Services at two main campuses: - Darwin Campus: 25 Cavenagh St and 43 Cavanagh Street, Darwin City NT 0800 - Parramatta Campus: Suite 1, Level 2, 17-21 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
Darwin is the capital of the Northern Territory, with a small but growing international student population. Living costs in Darwin are lower than Sydney, with indicative weekly rent around $350-$450. Parramatta is a major Sydney hub with excellent public transport (trains, buses, light rail) and a large migrant community. Both locations offer access to community service organisations for placements. Darwin has about 20 CRICOS-registered providers, while Sydney has over 400.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. You also need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating genuine intention to study. Financial capacity evidence is required: you must show you can cover tuition fees, travel, and living costs (at least A$21,041 per year plus OSHC). The ESOS Act protects international students, including tuition fee refund rights if the provider fails to deliver. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Choosing a Diploma of Community Services requires thought about career goals, location, and budget. This field is people-focused and often requires empathy and resilience. Darwin offers a unique lifestyle with proximity to Indigenous communities and tropical climate, while Parramatta provides urban multicultural opportunities. Consider that community services roles may require a driver's license and first aid certificate. The work placement is a major advantage – it builds local references and can lead to job offers. Also compare this provider's fees and support services with other CRICOS-registered providers offering similar courses. Use HeadStart Academy's filters to find courses by location, level, and field. Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered and protect your rights under the ESOS Act.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Australian City International College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use our resources to compare courses like this one. Filter by course level, field, and city (Darwin or Parramatta). Ensure the provider is registered on CRICOS (check code 03888H). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet the entry requirements: academic qualifications, English language test (IELTS 5.5-6.0 typically), and any prerequisites. Submit your application through the provider's online portal. Deadlines vary, so check with Australian City International College. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once you receive the CoE, apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide financial evidence, OSHC, and GTE statement. Visa processing times can be several weeks, so apply early.
Ready to take the next step? Research more Diploma courses using HeadStart Academy's free search tool, or contact Australian City International College directly for application details.
View the full Australian City International College Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian City International College 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.