The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118826M) is a two-year Diploma delivered by Australian Virtus Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04023E). This nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 5, VET code CHC52025) prepares you for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. Delivered in Adelaide and Sydney, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to support vulnerable individuals and communities. Indicative tuition is A$20,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$1,300, totalling an estimated A$21,300. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards and qualifies you for a Student visa (Subclass 500). At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure you have reliable information to plan your study journey in Australia.
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The Diploma of Community Services is designed for students who want to make a positive impact in social welfare. This AQF Level 5 qualification equips graduates with advanced skills in client assessment, case management, community development, and advocacy. The course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599) and is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring your tuition fees are safeguarded and you receive quality education.
While specific subjects are set by the provider, graduates of Diploma-level community services courses typically learn to: develop and implement programs to address social issues; work with diverse populations including Indigenous Australians and people with disabilities; manage case files and referral networks; and lead community outreach initiatives. The field of education (09 - Society and Culture) emphasises human behaviour, social structures, and cultural awareness. At this level, you'll also gain supervisory skills and ethical decision-making capabilities relevant to the Australian community services sector.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. Classes are held in English at Australian Virtus Institute's campuses. There is no dual qualification or foundation year attached to this course. Students should expect a standard study load of 20-25 hours per week, plus independent study. The provider may offer flexibility in timetabling, but the registered duration is fixed at 2 years.
Tuition for the entire course is A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,300 (e.g., enrolment, materials). The estimated total is A$21,300. Please note: these are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For the most current fees, always check the provider's website at www.avi.edu.au. Australia's cost of living varies by city; in Adelaide, weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–300, while in Sydney it is higher at A$300–500. Budget accordingly.
Entry to the Diploma of Community Services typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. International students must demonstrate English proficiency, with a recommended IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may require previous study in a related field or relevant work experience. The provider may offer pathway options if you do not meet the criteria – contact Australian Virtus Institute directly. As with all CRICOS courses, you must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for your student visa.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a Student visa (Subclass 500) holder, you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs. Work is not part of the course curriculum, but you may choose to seek part-time employment independently.
Australian Virtus Institute delivers this course at three locations: Level 6 West, Level 6, 50 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000; Level 9, 50 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000; and Level 3, 127 Liverpool St, Sydney NSW 2000. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its affordable living and strong community services sector. Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment with extensive public transport. Both cities have numerous CRICOS-registered providers; Adelaide has over 200 providers and Sydney over 500. Choose a location that fits your lifestyle and career goals.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Virtus Institute, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With this visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent for personalised advice.
Ready to start your Diploma of Community Services journey? Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure your chosen provider, like Australian Virtus Institute, has valid CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Meet entry requirements, submit an English test score (e.g., IELTS), and provide academic transcripts. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, including many in community services. This field is in demand across the country, with opportunities in aged care, disability support, and child protection. Adelaide and Sydney both have strong job markets and training pathways. Consider your preferred city's cost of living, student community, and public transport. Adelaide offers a more relaxed pace and lower costs, while Sydney provides larger networks and higher salaries. Whichever you choose, your CRICOS registration guarantees ESOS Act protections.
Ready to enrol? Visit Australian Virtus Institute's website at www.avi.edu.au for application details. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other CRICOS-registered community services courses.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Virtus 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.