Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118870G) is a Diploma delivered by National Diversity Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work in the community services sector, providing support and advocacy for vulnerable populations. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. In this guide, HeadStart Academy breaks down everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways. The course is located in Adelaide, a city with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community of approximately 40,000 international students. Whether you are looking to become a community support worker or pursue further studies, this Diploma offers a solid foundation.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118870G) is a 2-year full-time program delivered by National Diversity Institute of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS provider code 04368B). This course falls under the field of education 090599 – Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is taught in English and includes a mandatory work component of approximately 200 hours. As a CRICOS-registered course, it complies with Australian education standards and is available to international students under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
This Diploma focuses on the field of human welfare studies and services, preparing graduates for roles in community services such as case management, advocacy, and program coordination. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include developing skills in client assessment, referral processes, ethical practice, and community engagement. Students gain theoretical knowledge and practical competencies to support individuals and groups facing social challenges. The course aligns with the Australian Community Workers Association standards and the CHC52025 VET national code. Graduates may pursue roles such as community support worker, disability officer, or family services coordinator.
The Diploma of Community Services is a single qualification with a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, typically combining classroom learning with practical placements. The course is offered at the Adelaide campus of National Diversity Institute of Australia. This structure allows international students to meet visa requirements for full-time study.
The indicative tuition fee for this Diploma is A$16,000, with non-tuition fees of A$200, bringing the estimated total to A$16,200. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which typically costs around A$600–800 per year for single cover, nor living expenses or the visa application charge. For context, Adelaide’s estimated weekly living costs are approximately A$400–600 for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. Fees are set by National Diversity Institute of Australia and are subject to change – always confirm current fees directly with the provider via their website. HeadStart Academy displays data sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Community Services generally include an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Year 12 or equivalent (AQF Level 5 entry). Some providers may require prior study in a related field or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry – contact National Diversity Institute of Australia for specific requirements. All international students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion as part of their visa application. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider’s website for the most up-to-date entry conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This typically involves an industry placement in a community services setting such as aged care, disability support, or community health organizations. Placements allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments, develop professional networks, and meet course competency requirements. Students are responsible for arranging placements with provider assistance. Work placements are supervised and may be subject to background checks.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at Level 7, 50 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its affordable cost of living and strong student community. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and around 40,000 international students. The campus is located in the central business district, easily accessible by public transport including buses and trams. Nearby amenities include shops, cafes, and libraries. Adelaide's lower rent compared to Sydney or Melbourne makes it an attractive option for international students. For more on studying in South Australia, see our state guide.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course, maintenance of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs), and travel. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition assurance and complaint mechanisms.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the provider’s CRICOS registration on cricos.teqsa.gov.au. 2. Apply directly to National Diversity Institute of Australia: Check entry requirements (including English test scores), gather documents (academic transcripts, passport, etc.), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at National Diversity Institute of Australia 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.