Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118811G) is a Diploma delivered by Penfold College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for international students who want to build a career in community services, including case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider 03946C), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. At HeadStart Academy, we help you understand every aspect of this course—from fees and entry requirements to visa conditions and work-integrated learning. Whether you're in Melbourne or planning to move, this page provides all the essential information you need to make an informed decision. Remember, all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, so you can trust its accuracy.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118811G) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Penfold College Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). This course falls under the field of education 090599 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c., which is part of the broader Society and Culture field (09). Graduates typically gain the skills to work in community service organisations, supporting individuals and groups through case management, advocacy, and project coordination. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03946C), Penfold College Pty Ltd is approved by the Australian Government to deliver this course to international students, ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections. The course includes a mandatory work component, making it a practical pathway to employment in Australia's growing community services sector. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Diploma is one of them, verified by the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118811G) covers the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively in the community services sector. While specific subjects are set by Penfold College Pty Ltd, typical learning areas include case management, community development, advocacy, ethical practice, and program coordination. Students develop competencies in assessing client needs, planning and implementing services, and working within legal and policy frameworks. This field of education (Human Welfare Studies and Services) emphasises practical, real-world application, preparing graduates for roles such as community service worker, case manager, or welfare support officer. The course aligns with the Australian VET qualification CHC52025, ensuring national recognition. For international students, this Diploma offers a pathway to both employment and further study in social work or human services.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) full-time. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The course is structured to include both classroom-based learning and a mandatory work-integrated learning component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500). The 2-year duration also qualifies students for post-study work rights upon graduation, subject to visa conditions. For detailed study schedules, contact Penfold College Pty Ltd directly.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Community Services (118811G) at Penfold College Pty Ltd are as follows (sourced from the CRICOS register, April 2026): Tuition fee: A$22,000; Non-tuition fees: A$2,000; Estimated total: A$24,000. Please note that these fees do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne (where the course is delivered) are estimated at A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. For current fees, always verify with Penfold College Pty Ltd, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this data as a guide only, sourced from the official CRICOS register.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118811G) are determined by Penfold College Pty Ltd. Generally, international students need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5). Applicants should also hold a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate or have relevant work experience. Some providers may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet the academic or English requirements. It's essential to check directly with Penfold College for the most up-to-date entry criteria. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa- related entry requirements, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
The Diploma of Community Services includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 400 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community services setting such as a welfare agency, community centre, or health organisation. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment, develop professional networks, and gain Australian work experience—which is highly valued by employers. Penfold College Pty Ltd will arrange or assist with placement opportunities. Work placements are subject to visa conditions; ensure your Student visa permits unpaid work integral to the course.
This course is delivered at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, in the heart of Melbourne's central business district. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city and a major study destination, with over 150,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is easily accessible via public transport, including trams, trains, and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$120, and transport A$30–$50 (with a student concession). Studying in Melbourne offers access to a vibrant multicultural community and a strong job market in community services. For more on studying in Victoria, see our /states/vic page.
To study the Diploma of Community Services (118811G) at Penfold College Pty Ltd, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and acceptance of your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory and must be arranged before visa grant. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights. For detailed guidance, visit our /visa/student-visa-subclass-500 page and consult the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three simple steps to secure your place in the Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118811G) at Penfold College Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use our /glossary/cricos page to understand CRICOS registration. Then browse courses by level (Diploma), field (Society and Culture), and city (Melbourne) on HeadStart Academy. Verify that Penfold College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03946C) meets your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Penfold College Pty Ltd with required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), passport copy, and any relevant work experience letters. Check application deadlines and any prerequisite requirements on their website.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE from Penfold College. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have health insurance (OSHC) and sufficient funds. For visa help, consult a registered migration agent.
Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, making it one of Australia's largest education hubs. The city offers a diverse and inclusive environment, with strong demand for community services professionals due to its multicultural population. Studying here gives you access to hospitals, community centres, and NGOs for work placements. Cost of living is manageable compared to Sydney, and public transport is excellent. However, consider your personal preferences: Melbourne has a cooler climate, a bustling arts scene, and a high student population. If you prefer a quieter location, regional Victoria options exist. This course is delivered in the CBD, so you'll have all amenities at your doorstep. For more on Victoria as a study destination, see our /states/vic page.
Ready to take the next step? Follow our 3-step application guide above and begin your journey to studying community services in Australia.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Penfold 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.