Are you an international student looking to build a career in community services in Australia? The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118851K) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Unified WA Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course equips you with practical skills and knowledge to support individuals and communities in diverse settings, from case management to advocacy. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian Government standards and is open to international student visa holders. In this detailed guide, HeadStart Academy provides everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, work component, delivery locations, and how to apply. Whether you are comparing courses or ready to enrol, this page draws on the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to give you accurate, up-to-date information. Remember, all listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and legal protections under the ESOS Act.
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Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118851K) is a Diploma delivered by Unified WA Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture', specifically '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services', and is classified under the VET national code CHC52025. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students learn to work with diverse client groups, develop case plans, coordinate services, and advocate for social justice. Graduates typically pursue roles such as community services worker, case manager, or support facilitator. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses in Australia, this program at Unified WA stands out for its practical work-integrated learning component.
The Diploma of Community Services covers core concepts in human welfare, including ethical practice, communication strategies, community development, and referral pathways. While the exact syllabus is set by Unified WA Pty Ltd, students at this AQF Level 5 can expect to learn how to assess client needs, implement support programs, and evaluate outcomes. The field 'Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c.' encompasses a broad range of skills applicable to non-government organisations, government agencies, and community health settings. This qualification prepares you for frontline roles that require both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the curriculum aligns with Australian industry standards, ensuring your qualification is recognised nationwide.
According to the CRICOS register, this Diploma of Community Services runs for 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification only (no dual awards), and it is not a foundation studies program. Students typically study full-time on campus at Unified WA's Melbourne delivery location. The course is designed to accommodate a blend of theoretical classes and practical placements, meeting the requirements for international student visa holders. Always check with the provider for the exact timetable and study mode details, as these can vary.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$28,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, giving an estimated total of A$30,000. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included in these amounts. For current fees, we recommend visiting Unified WA Pty Ltd's official website. As a general guide, living costs in Melbourne range from A$400 to A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, depending on lifestyle. All fees shown are indicative only – always confirm directly with the provider before applying.
For international students, a typical English language requirement is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Unified WA Pty Ltd may also require prior qualifications at Certificate IV level or equivalent, as this is a Diploma-level course. Foundation or pathway options may be available – please refer to the provider for specific prerequisites. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider will assess each application individually. For visa purposes, you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Yes, this course includes a work component: 20 weeks of work placement at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 400 hours. This work-integrated learning may involve industry placements, internships, or clinical placements in community service organisations. You will gain real-world experience applying your skills under supervision, which is invaluable for your future career. The vocational placement is structured to align with course learning outcomes and may be arranged by Unified WA Pty Ltd in partnership with local agencies. This component is an integral part of the CRICOS-registered course and counts towards your overall study requirement for the student visa.
Unified WA Pty Ltd delivers this course at its Melbourne campus in Victoria (VIC). Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 190 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers excellent public transport (trains, trams, buses) connecting the campus to surrounding suburbs. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly higher than the national average; typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$350. With a vibrant multicultural community and strong demand for community services professionals, studying in Melbourne provides both educational and networking opportunities. Always verify current delivery locations with the provider, as campuses may change.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Additionally, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to refund policies and course change procedures. For detailed visa advice, always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Unified WA Pty Ltd:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers:** Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Unified WA Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04184K) is still registered on the CRICOS register.
**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution:** Check Unified WA's entry requirements, including English language test scores (e.g., IELTS) and academic qualifications. Submit your application with required documents before the deadline.
**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500):** Once accepted, Unified WA will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet GTE requirements.
Melbourne is one of Australia's top study destinations, with a thriving community services sector. The city has over 190 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses in society and culture. Public transport is extensive, with myki cards valid on trains, trams, and buses. Living costs are manageable with careful budgeting: weekly rent for a shared house averages A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and transport A$40–A$50. The student population exceeds 200,000, offering a vibrant social and professional network. Consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and career opportunities before choosing a location. Victoria also has a strong demand for qualified community services workers, potentially opening pathways to post-study work.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Unified WA Pty Ltd's official website for the latest fees, entry requirements, and application deadlines. HeadStart Academy is here to help you find the right CRICOS-registered course – explore more options today.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Unified WA 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.