Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118849D) is a Diploma level qualification delivered by Australis Vocational College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is designed for international students aspiring to work in community services, human welfare, and support roles in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04156C), Australis Vocational College meets strict Australian Government standards to enrol overseas students. The course falls under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, equipping graduates with practical skills to support individuals and communities. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this diploma is a solid pathway into the growing community services sector.
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118849D) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Australis Vocational College Pty Ltd. The course spans 2 years (104 weeks) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study component) with a VET national code of CHC52025. The indicative tuition fee is A$36,000, with no listed non-tuition fees, bringing the estimated total to A$36,000. This fee is indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, and is subject to change by the provider. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. The course does not include a mandatory work component, but students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term under their student visa.
This diploma falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services' and further '090599 - Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.'. Students typically develop skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and client support. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates can expect to learn about social justice, human rights, and effective intervention strategies. This course prepares students for roles such as community service worker, case worker, or welfare support officer. The broad field provides flexibility to work in government, non-profit, or private community service organisations. Remember, all CRICOS-registered courses ensure quality under the ESOS Act, protecting international students.
The Diploma of Community Services is scheduled over 2 years, which equates to 104 weeks as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at designated campuses, with no online delivery indicated for this course. The standard duration allows for full-time study, consistent with student visa requirements. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with visa conditions.
Tuition fee: A$36,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total cost: A$36,000. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. Living costs in Sydney (where the campuses are located) can vary; as a guide, rent starts at around A$300 per week for shared accommodation, groceries at A$80 per week, and public transport at A$50 per week. For the most current fees, always check the provider's official website. HeadStart Academy sources data from the CRICOS register but does not guarantee fee amounts.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants are generally expected to have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12, or a Certificate III or IV in a related field. Some providers may require relevant work experience or a pre-training assessment. For Diploma level, strong English proficiency and a genuine intention to study are key. Contact Australis Vocational College directly for precise entry criteria, as requirements can change. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements — refer to the provider for options.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work can provide valuable experience in community services, but is not a requirement for course completion.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at two locations in the Sydney metropolitan area: Australis Vocational College — Parramatta, and AVC- Parramatta — North Parramatta, both in New South Wales. Parramatta is a major educational hub, home to many CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The campus is accessible by train, bus, and light rail, with ample student accommodation nearby. Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment, with living costs higher than other Australian cities but compensated by strong employment opportunities for graduates in community services. When choosing a location, consider proximity to your accommodation and transport links.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, have adequate OSHC, demonstrate Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) intention, and show financial capacity. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also be eligible to work. Ensure you maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress to comply with visa conditions. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but not immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to start your journey: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Australis Vocational College (CRICOS 04156C) meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, arrange English testing (if needed), and submit your application through the provider’s official website. Deadlines may apply. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you’ll receive a CoE, which is required for the visa application. Ensure you have OSHC, funds, and GTE documentation. Apply online via the Department of Home Affairs.
Parramatta is Sydney’s second-largest central business district, home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students. It offers a lower cost of living than the Sydney CBD, with many affordable shared apartments, a vibrant food scene, and excellent public transport (train, bus, light rail). The region has a strong community services sector due to population growth and government investment. However, consider your preference for a busy suburban hub vs. a quieter city centre. Parramatta’s diverse student community makes it a welcoming choice for international students.
Ready to apply? Start your journey with Australis Vocational College today by following our 3-step application process above.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australis Vocational 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.