Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management is a one-year qualification for people who want to run teams, projects and business units. It sits at diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, so it is practical and job-focused. You study how to plan and manage resources, lead and develop people, manage budgets and financial plans, and handle workplace risk. Assessment is competency-based: you demonstrate that you can do the tasks, not just recall the theory.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas and advanced diplomas are made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. The course is delivered over semesters or trimesters, and you need to complete all required units to graduate. Delivery at a private college like Australian National College is often face-to-face, with some online components. Because the course is practical, there is no research thesis. Instead, assessment happens through simulated workplace tasks, case studies, projects and role plays that reflect what managers actually do.

What you learn

You build skills in leading teams, managing operational plans, overseeing projects, managing finances, and developing workplace relationships. You also learn to manage your own performance and support others to meet targets. These are the skills employers look for when they promote someone into a supervisory or coordinator role.

Who it suits

This course suits people who already have some work experience and want to move into management, or who are already managing a small team and want a formal qualification. It also works for international students who want an Australian qualification in business. English proficiency is required: IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard for coursework at this level, with TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge equivalents accepted. The Student visa also has its own English requirement set by the Department of Home Affairs, and while you study you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register. Check the official page for exact fees, entry requirements and intake dates.

• Office manager, runs daily operations in small and medium businesses across retail, health, trades and professional services.
• Team leader, supervises staff, rosters and performance in hospitality, logistics, customer service and administration.
• Project coordinator, supports project delivery in construction, IT, events and government.
• Business development officer, identifies opportunities and manages client relationships in banking, real estate and professional services.
• Retail manager, oversees store operations, stock and staff in national retail chains.
• Administration manager, manages records, systems and office support in education, healthcare and government agencies.

These roles exist across Australia in private companies, not-for-profits and the public sector. Employers include small businesses, large corporations, government departments and community organisations. The qualification can also lead into further study, such as a bachelor degree in business or management, with credit for completed units.