Are you looking to build a career in community services in Australia? The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118802H) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by St. Marys Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course prepares you for roles in case management, advocacy, and community development. St. Marys Institute is a CRICOS-registered private provider (03899E) based in Melbourne, Victoria. As an international student, you’ll benefit from ESOS Act protections and study at a registered institution. Read on for full details on fees, entry requirements, work component, and how to apply.
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The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118802H) is a 2-year full-time program at AQF Level 5. It falls under the field of education 090599 Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c., within the broader Society and Culture (09) category. This qualification equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities, manage programs, and advocate for social justice. St. Marys Institute Pty Ltd is a private college located in Melbourne’s CBD, offering a focused learning environment. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03899E), it meets Australian Government standards for international student education. The course includes a compulsory work component, providing practical experience. This page is your guide to everything you need to know before enrolling.
While specific units are set by St. Marys Institute, a Diploma of Community Services typically covers case management, counselling skills, community development, legal and ethical frameworks, and working with diverse populations. You’ll learn to assess client needs, develop support plans, and coordinate services. The field of 090599 focuses on human welfare, preparing graduates for roles such as community worker, case manager, or program coordinator. Study methods include lectures, tutorials, workshops, and practical placements. The course is delivered in English, so strong language skills are essential.
The Diploma of Community Services is offered over 104 weeks (2 years) on a full-time basis. The CRICOS register lists the course duration as 104 weeks. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). Students are expected to attend classes at the Melbourne campus and complete a work placement component. The standard study load is typically 20 hours per week, plus self-study and placement hours.
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Community Services at St. Marys Institute are A$24,500 for the full program. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,050 (including materials, administration, etc.), bringing the estimated total to A$25,550. Please note: these are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. You must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. We recommend checking the provider’s website for the most current fee schedule.
St. Marys Institute typically requires an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). You may also need to have completed a relevant Certificate IV or equivalent qualification. For mature-age students with relevant work experience, alternative entry may be available. The course is at AQF Level 5, so applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options are not listed in the CRICOS data for this course, so contact St. Marys Institute directly for details on English language programs or bridging courses. Always verify entry requirements with the provider.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This is typically an industry placement (also known as a practicum or internship) in a community services organisation. You’ll apply classroom learning in real-world settings, such as community centres, NGOs, or government agencies. The placement is supervised and helps build your professional network. It’s a valuable part of your training and may lead to employment opportunities. Ensure you meet any prerequisite checks (e.g., police clearance, working with children check) required by the placement site.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at St. Marys Institute’s campus in Melbourne: Level 11, 343 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital with a large international student population (over 140,000). The city has excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) and a high quality of life. Studying in the CBD gives you access to libraries, cafes, and networking events. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Melbourne’s living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$400 for a shared apartment, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$50.
International students enrolling in this Diploma will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5+). Once on visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must maintain OSHC for the duration of your stay. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring your tuition is safeguarded. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at St. Marys Institute:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm St. Marys Institute (CRICOS 03899E) meets your needs.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts) and application deadlines. Submit your application to St. Marys Institute via their website or admissions office.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and proof of funds.
Melbourne is one of Australia’s most multicultural cities, with a vibrant student community. It offers world-class dining, arts, and sports. For community services students, Melbourne has a strong social services sector with many NGOs and government agencies. The cost of living is manageable, but you’ll need to budget carefully. Public transport includes free tram zones in the CBD. Consider your lifestyle preferences – Melbourne has a cool climate with four seasons. If you prefer larger cities, Sydney is an alternative, but Melbourne is often rated as Australia’s most liveable city.
Ready to start your journey? Research more CRICOS-registered Diploma courses in Community Services on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at St. Marys Institute 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.