Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 118871F) is a Diploma delivered by INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD over 2 years. This qualification, aligned to the national VET code CHC52025, equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities through case management, advocacy, and program coordination. Located in Broadmeadows, Victoria, this course is ideal for international students seeking a pathway into Australia's growing community services sector, which employs over 400,000 people nationally. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 04376B), it meets stringent Australian quality standards under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive a recognised qualification. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), and this page provides a comprehensive overview of fees, entry requirements, work components, and student visa considerations. Whether you're planning to work in aged care, disability support, or community development, this diploma offers a solid foundation. Note: This is not a migration advice service; consult a registered MARA agent for visa guidance.
The Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS 118871F) is a nationally recognised VET qualification at AQF Level 5, offered by INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD (CRICOS 04376B), a private provider. The course is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) in English, focusing on human welfare studies and services (field 090599). Students learn to design, implement, and evaluate community programs, manage case loads, and support vulnerable populations. The program includes a mandatory work component of 200 hours (10 weeks at 20 hrs/week), providing hands-on industry experience. As a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies), it prepares graduates for roles such as community service worker, case coordinator, or team leader. The course is delivered at 61 Riggall St, Broadmeadows VIC 3047, a suburb 16 km north of Melbourne’s CBD with excellent public transport links via Broadmeadows station. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act and must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course like this one to obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500).
This diploma falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services. Students gain competencies in case management, community development, advocacy, and ethical practices. Typical learning outcomes include understanding social welfare systems, developing support plans, and managing complex client needs. While the precise syllabus is set by INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD, graduates at this AQF level are expected to apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios, use critical thinking to solve problems, and communicate effectively with diverse groups. The course may cover topics such as trauma-informed care, mental health first aid, and cross-cultural communication. Hands-on projects and simulated workplace tasks are often integrated to mirror real community service environments. With Australia’s aging population and increasing demand for social services, skill gaps exist in regional and metropolitan areas, making this qualification valuable for employment. Students should consult the provider for detailed unit listings and learning outcomes.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Community Services runs for 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification — no dual awards or foundation studies are bundled. Students attend classes at the Broadmeadows campus, with a workload typical of diploma-level VET programs. The course is designed to accommodate international students’ visa compliance, ensuring they meet the 20-hour per week work limit (48 hours per fortnight during term) and complete the course within the expected duration. No online or distance learning mode is specified; delivery is face-to-face at 61 Riggall St. The 2-year duration allows for deep immersion in community service theories and practical placements. Note that study breaks follow the academic calendar, but students on a Student visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory attendance to remain compliant with visa conditions.
The indicative total cost for the Diploma of Community Services is A$26,100, comprising tuition of A$25,500 and non-tuition fees of A$600. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD. Tuition covers course delivery, materials, and access to facilities; non-tuition fees may include enrolment, administration, or resource charges. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), estimated at around A$500–A$700 per year for singles; living expenses (guidance: approximately A$21,000 per year for a single student in Melbourne); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm the latest fees with the provider, as amounts are subject to change. For accurate, up-to-date information, visit the provider’s website. HeadStart Academy does not set or collect fees; we simply report public data from the official CRICOS register.
General entry requirements for this diploma level expect applicants to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. English language proficiency is typically demonstrated through IELTS scores of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent test such as PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge). Some providers may require a higher band for certain components. Prior study in community services or related fields may be advantageous but is not mandatory. If you do not meet direct entry, foundation or pathway programs may be available through the provider. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their Student visa application. Always check the specific entry criteria with INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD, as requirements can vary. For academic advice, consult the provider’s admissions team or an education counsellor. HeadStart Academy provides this as general guidance only and recommends verifying with the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 200 hours. This is an industry placement (or internship) that allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real community service settings, such as aged care facilities, disability support centres, or non-profit organisations. Placements are arranged by the provider and are an essential part of the qualification. They provide invaluable experience, professional references, and networking opportunities. International students must ensure their Student visa (Subclass 500) permits unpaid work for course-related placements; generally, work-integrated learning is allowed without counting towards the 48-hour fortnightly work limit, provided it is a compulsory course requirement. Students should confirm placement logistics, including supervision arrangements and any immunisation or background check requirements, with INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at 61 Riggall St, Broadmeadows VIC 3047. Broadmeadows is a suburb in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor, approximately 16 km from the CBD. It is well serviced by public transport: Broadmeadows railway station (Craigieburn line) is a short walk from the campus, offering frequent trains to the city (about 25 minutes). The area has a multicultural population and a range of student-friendly amenities, including affordable housing options (indicative weekly rent A$250–A$350 for shared accommodation). Nearby suburbs like Glenroy, Fawkner, and Coburg also offer student accommodation. Broadmeadows is home to several other CRICOS-registered providers and a growing student community. For students considering Melbourne, the city has over 800 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student population. When choosing a study location, consider proximity to placement sites, transport links, and cost of living. Melbourne’s living costs are moderately high, but Broadmeadows provides a more economical option compared to inner city suburbs.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key visa conditions: maintain full-time enrolment, satisfactory course progress and attendance, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during scheduled course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your visa application must include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD, evidence of English proficiency, financial capacity (tuition + living + travel), and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement explaining your intention to stay temporarily. The Department of Home Affairs assesses visa applications; HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice. For personalised guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to tuition protection and complaint mechanisms. Ensure you understand your visa conditions upon grant; breeches can lead to cancellation.
Follow these 3 steps to enrol in the Diploma of Community Services at INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (human welfare), and city (Melbourne). Confirm that the course (CRICOS 118871F) and provider (04376B) are current on the CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD for application forms, entry requirements, and deadlines. Prepare documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), passport copy, and a statement of purpose. Submit your application and await a Letter of Offer. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for a Subclass 500 visa online through ImmiAccount. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. Processing times vary; apply early (up to 120 days before course start). HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no commission – we do not process applications.
Ready to start your community services career in Australia? Explore the Diploma of Community Services at INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING PTY LTD and apply today.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT LEARNING 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.