Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 120156D) is a Diploma delivered by United International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 11 months (~101 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification sits within the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090599) and is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) with the VET national code CHC52025. Based in Ultimo, New South Wales, the course prepares students for roles in community services, case management, and advocacy. HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au) provides this information sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, helping international students make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
The Diploma of Community Services covers a broad range of competencies aligned with the Australian Community Services industry. Students develop skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and working with diverse populations. The curriculum typically includes units on ethical practice, legal and policy frameworks, communication, and crisis intervention. Graduates are prepared for roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. This course is classified under the field of education 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services, which encompasses programs that prepare individuals to support the wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the content meets Australian quality standards for international students.
The course duration is 1 year 11 months (~101 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. This is a single qualification (Diploma) offered full-time. Students should be prepared for a structured timetable that may include lectures, tutorials, and practical placements (though this course has no mandatory work component). The duration allows for comprehensive coverage of community services theory and practice, preparing students for entry into the workforce or further study.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Community Services is A$17,600, with non-tuition fees of A$1,800, bringing the estimated total to A$19,400. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. For the most current fee information, always check directly with United International College Pty Ltd. HeadStart Academy does not set or guarantee fees; they are provided as a guide only.
International students are typically expected to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent test results). Prior qualifications such as completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent are usually required. Additionally, applicants may need to meet specific prerequisites, such as a Certificate IV in a related field or relevant work experience. United International College may also consider foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always confirm entry criteria with the provider before applying.
No work component – This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some community services courses offer practical placements, this particular program does not require students to undertake work as part of their study. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This allows students to gain work experience alongside their studies.
This course is delivered at the Ultimo campus in New South Wales. Ultimo is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, home to a large student population due to its proximity to major universities and colleges. The campus is well-connected by public transport, with access to trains, buses, and light rail. Sydney offers a diverse cultural scene, and international students can benefit from numerous support services. When considering living costs, students should budget for rent (approximately A$200–A$400 per week), groceries (A$60–A$100 per week), and transport (A$30–A$50 per week) as a rough guide only.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa application requires evidence of enrolment (Confirmation of Enrolment), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC provides medical and hospital insurance for the duration of the visa. Students are also subject to visa conditions, including work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term). The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects international students' rights, ensuring quality education and consumer protection. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the course and provider are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines for Diploma of Community Services at United International College Pty Ltd. Submit required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you accept the offer and pay the deposit, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a premier study destination, with over 200,000 international students. The city boasts world-class institutions, a multicultural environment, and abundant job opportunities. Ultimo, specifically, is adjacent to the Sydney CBD and close to attractions like Darling Harbour and Chinatown. Sydney's cost of living is higher than the national average, but students can find affordable housing in suburbs like Newtown or Chippendale. The transport network is extensive, making it easy to explore the city. When choosing a community services course in Sydney, consider the strong demand for qualified workers in health and social services across NSW.
Start your journey: Research CRICOS-registered providers, apply to United International College Pty Ltd, and secure your CoE for the Student visa.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at United International 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.