Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118868A) is a Diploma delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work in community services, providing support to individuals, families, and groups. It equips students with the skills to manage, coordinate, and deliver services in areas such as case management, advocacy, and community development. With a strong focus on practical experience, including a mandatory work component, this course prepares graduates for roles in diverse settings like non-profits, government agencies, and health care. As a CRICOS-registered course (118868A), it meets Australian standards for international students. At HeadStart Academy, we provide verified information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and compliance with the ESOS Act. Melbourne, Victoria, offers a vibrant student life with numerous community service opportunities, making it an ideal location for this course.
Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118868A) is a Diploma at AQF Level 5 delivered by Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04354H). This private provider offers a 2-year program (104 weeks) in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies. The VET national code is CHC52025. The course includes a work component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours of industry placement. This hands-on experience ensures graduates are job-ready. Indicative total fees are A$28,900 (tuition A$27,000 + non-tuition A$1,900). Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are not included. This course is registered in the field of Society and Culture (0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services). As part of Australia's 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, this program meets stringent quality standards.
The field of education for this course is Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. At the Diploma level, students typically learn to design, implement, and evaluate community service programs. They develop skills in case management, advocacy, crisis intervention, and community development. The curriculum covers ethical practice, cultural competence, and legal frameworks. Graduates are prepared for roles such as community service worker, case manager, or welfare officer. While specific units are set by the provider, the focus remains on practical skills for supporting vulnerable populations. This course aligns with national competencies under CHC52025, ensuring industry relevance.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). The program is full-time, with an estimated 20 hours per week of study plus the work component. Students attend classes at the provider's campus in Melbourne. The duration is fixed for international student visa purposes. All CRICOS-registered courses have approved duration; this ensures compliance with visa conditions. Victoria is a popular study destination with many international students, and Melbourne offers excellent public transport for commuting.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Community Services at Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd is A$27,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, application) are A$1,900, making the estimated total A$28,900. These are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include OSHC (approx. A$600-800 per year for singles), living expenses (A$2,000-2,500 per month for rent, food, transport in Melbourne), and the visa application fee (A$1,600). Always confirm fees directly with the provider. For budgeting, Melbourne's cost of living is moderate; weekly rent for a shared apartment may be A$250-400, groceries A$80-150, and public transport A$40-60.
General entry requirements for this Diploma level course include an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications or experience in community services may be beneficial but not mandatory. Foundation or pathway options may be available; contact Victorian Skills College for details. English language requirements vary by provider; some accept alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. As a CRICOS-registered course, entry is managed by the provider. Always check the latest requirements on the provider's website.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in a community service organisation. Students gain practical experience under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Placements may be in settings like aged care homes, disability support services, or community health centers. The work component is integral to the course and must be completed for graduation. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake this placement as part of their course. It also enhances employability and networking.
The course is delivered at Level 4, 398 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000. This location is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, close to public transport (trams, trains, buses). Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is a multicultural city with over 200,000 international students. It has a strong community services sector, with many organisations offering placements. The city provides a supportive environment for study, with libraries, study spaces, and cultural activities. Living costs are reasonable compared to Sydney. There are over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia; Victoria hosts many quality institutions.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd. Students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The course duration of 2 years qualifies for a post-study work visa upon graduation. Remember, visa conditions are set by the Department of Home Affairs. Always check current requirements and consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Community Services at Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city). Use HeadStart Academy's tools to compare courses. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution (meet entry requirements, provide English test scores, submit application by deadlines). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For personalised guidance, contact the provider directly.
Ready to apply? Start your journey today by exploring this course on HeadStart Academy and contacting Victorian Skills College Pty Ltd for current intake details.
Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victorian Skills 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.