Diploma of Leadership in Disability Services (CRICOS course code 119967A) is a Diploma delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. over 1 year. This qualification is designed for those who wish to lead and manage services supporting individuals with disabilities. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03838G), it meets Australian standards for international students. Delivery is at Levels 1 & 2, 16-18 Wentworth Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 — a key educational hub. With Australia’s growing disability sector, this Diploma opens doors to rewarding careers. HeadStart Academy provides this page from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — a free resource with no referral fees. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students.
This Diploma (AQF Level 5) falls under the field of Society and Culture (0905 – Human Welfare Studies and Services, specialising in Care for the Disabled). Students gain skills in leadership, strategic planning, person-centred support, and compliance with disability legislation. The curriculum typically covers managing teams, developing service plans, advocating for clients, and improving organisational performance. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates are prepared for roles such as disability service manager, team leader, or program coordinator. Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has increased demand for qualified leaders, making this qualification highly relevant.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification — no dual or foundation study options. Full-time study is typical, with face-to-face classes at the Parramatta campus. Parramatta is a major Sydney suburb with excellent public transport (trains, buses, light rail) and a large student population. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers operate across Australia, and NSW alone has hundreds of courses at this level.
Tuition is A$29,000, non-tuition fees A$1,000, estimated total A$30,000. These are indicative figures from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Always confirm directly with FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. via their website for current fees. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. In Parramatta, indicative weekly living costs are A$300–A$450 for rent (shared), A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. Financial capacity is a key requirement for your Student visa.
For this Diploma level, providers typically expect completion of Year 12 or equivalent. An English proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is recommended. Specific requirements are set by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION — we advise you check directly. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you don't meet the academic criteria; contact the provider for details. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa outcome — that is decided by the Department of Home Affairs.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). This can help offset living costs and gain local experience.
Classes are held at Levels 1 & 2, 16-18 Wentworth Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Parramatta is a vibrant city in Greater Western Sydney, home to a large student community. It offers many study options: there are dozens of CRICOS-registered providers in the area, offering courses from English language to postgraduate degrees. The campus is near Parramatta station (5-minute walk), with shops, libraries, and affordable housing. This location combines urban amenities with a supportive learning environment.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and valid CoE. You can work 48 hours per fortnight during term. OSHC is mandatory for health cover. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, are protected under the ESOS Act. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm the provider is on CRICOS (code 03838G). 2. Apply directly to FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. – Meet entry requirements (English test, qualifications) and submit an application. Check deadlines on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE needed for the visa. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Parramatta is one of NSW's fastest-growing student hubs, with over 20,000 international students. It offers a lower cost of living than Sydney CBD (rent 20–30% cheaper) while still providing excellent transport, healthcare, and job opportunities. The disability services sector is expanding in Western Sydney, making this location strategic for networking. However, consider your preferences: Parramatta is bustling but not as cosmopolitan as the CBD. If you value a tight-knit student community with affordable living, it's ideal.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more courses in disability services on HeadStart Academy, or contact FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. directly for application details.
Diploma of Leadership in Disability Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION 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.