Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118828J) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Educare College Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~74 weeks). This qualification, with VET national code CHC52025, equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The course is offered at the provider's campus in Mascot, NSW, placing students in one of Australia's most multicultural urban centres. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, HeadStart Academy uses official CRICOS data (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. This page details fees, entry requirements, work components, and visa steps for this specific course.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118828J) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Educare College Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~74 weeks). It falls under the field of Education 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599 n.e.c.). This level corresponds to AQF Level 5, preparing graduates for roles such as community services case manager, support coordinator, or welfare worker. CRICOS registration (provider code 04027A) ensures the course meets Australian quality standards for international students. The course includes a work component of 3 weeks (40 hours per week) to provide practical industry experience.
Students in the Diploma of Community Services develop competencies in assessing client needs, developing and implementing service responses, and managing complex cases. The curriculum covers ethical practice, cultural safety, trauma-informed care, and collaboration with other services. Graduates are equipped to work with diverse populations, including people with disabilities, older Australians, and those experiencing homelessness or mental health challenges. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian Educare College, typical learning outcomes align with core units from the CHC52025 Training Package.
The course duration is 1 year 5 months (~74 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. Students study full-time on campus at the Mascot location. The duration is designed to meet student visa requirements and provide sufficient time for both theoretical learning and the work component.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register are: tuition A$18,500, non-tuition fees A$1,000, estimated total A$19,500. These do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. HeadStart Academy strongly advises checking current fees directly with Australian Educare College as they are subject to change. For context, living costs in Sydney (where Mascot is located) are approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always budget for the full duration.
Typical entry requirements for this Diploma include an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and may need prior study in a related field. Some providers require relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs (e.g., VET pathway) may be available for those who don't meet academic or English requirements — contact Australian Educare College for options. Note: entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 3 weeks (40 hours per week, total ~120 hours). Students undertake industry placement in community services settings such as aged care facilities, disability support organisations, or community health centres. This work-integrated learning provides real-world experience under supervision, helping students apply theoretical knowledge and build professional networks. Placements are arranged by the provider and may require a Working with Children Check or police clearance.
The course is delivered at 263 King Street, Mascot NSW 2020. Mascot is a suburb in Sydney's inner south, approximately 6 km from the CBD. It is well-served by public transport, including Mascot Station on the T8 Airport & South Line and multiple bus routes. Sydney has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. Typical weekly rent in Mascot for a shared apartment ranges from A$250–350, with groceries around A$80–120 and a public transport weekly ticket about A$35–50.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Australian Educare College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) — all providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution (prepare entry requirements, English test results, and meet application deadlines). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Remember to arrange OSHC and budget for living costs.
Ready to start your journey? Check the latest fees and apply for Diploma of Community Services at Australian Educare College through HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Educare 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.