Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118839F) is a Diploma delivered by Thames International College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification, mapped to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5) and VET national code CHC52025, equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities in diverse social service settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04079M), it is approved for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act 2000, ensuring your legal rights as an overseas student. Thames International College is a private provider based in North Sydney, New South Wales, one of Australia's most vibrant student hubs. The program includes a mandatory 10-week work component, providing real-world experience in the community services sector. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 — your trusted starting point for finding genuine, registered courses for international students in Australia.
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This Diploma sits within the field of education 0905 – Human Welfare Studies and Services (specifically 090599 – Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.). Students develop practical and theoretical knowledge in case management, community development, advocacy, and working with diverse populations including the elderly, people with disabilities, and at-risk youth. Graduates typically pursue roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. The course also builds essential skills in ethical practice, communication, and cultural competency, preparing you for the dynamic Australian community services landscape.
The Diploma of Community Services runs for 2 years (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies component). The program is delivered on campus at the provider's location in North Sydney. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$30,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000, giving an estimated total of A$32,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change — always confirm directly with Thames International College before applying. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For a full fee schedule, visit the provider's website or contact the admissions office.
International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) to meet English language proficiency standards. Applicants should also hold a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV in a related field. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a pre-training assessment. Foundation or pathway options may be available — refer to Thames International College for specific entry criteria and any alternative pathways.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This industry placement or internship allows you to apply classroom learning in real community service settings, gain practical skills, and build professional networks. Work placements are arranged by the provider to ensure alignment with course outcomes and visa regulations. This hands-on experience is invaluable for your future career in the Australian community services sector.
The course is delivered at: 118 Walker St, NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2060. North Sydney is a thriving business and educational precinct just across the Harbour Bridge from Sydney CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and ferries, making it accessible from across the Greater Sydney area. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering international students a vibrant, multicultural study environment with abundant part-time work opportunities.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to tuition protection and a complaints process. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
New South Wales is Australia's most populous state, with Sydney as its capital. International students in NSW enjoy a high standard of living with diverse cultural experiences. The state hosts over 400 CRICOS-registered providers, including universities, TAFEs, and private colleges like Thames International College. Living costs in Sydney are higher than in regional areas: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. However, part-time work opportunities are plentiful. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences when deciding if NSW is the right fit for your studies in community services.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Community Services at Thames International College:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use the official CRICOS register to confirm that both the provider (Thames International College, CRICOS 04079M) and the course (CRICOS 118839F) are registered. HeadStart Academy provides free, up-to-date data to help you compare options.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check the entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), academic qualifications, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents directly to Thames International College.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – If your application is successful, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you arrange OSHC and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Once your visa is granted, you can begin your studies in Australia.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Thames 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.