Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Diploma of Leadership and Management at Australian Virtus Institute is a one-year qualification for people who want to step into team leader, supervisor or middle manager roles. You study how to plan and manage work, lead a team, manage budgets and finances, and handle the day-to-day operations of a business. The course sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which means it is practical and job-focused rather than academic in orientation.

What you study

The diploma is made up of units of study, each with a set credit point value. You will cover areas such as managing operational plans, leading and developing teams, managing people performance, workplace relationships, and financial management. Assessment is typically a mix of written tasks, case studies, projects and practical activities. The exact unit list and credit points are on the official course page, so check there before you apply.

How it is structured

Australian diplomas are usually delivered over two or three study periods across the year, with intakes at different points. The course is designed to be completed in one year of full-time study. Some providers offer part-time or online options, and you should confirm the delivery mode and study periods with Australian Virtus Institute. There is no separate honours year at diploma level. If you later want to continue studying, you may be able to get credit towards a bachelor degree, but that depends on the receiving institution's credit transfer policy.

Work-integrated learning and skills

Leadership and management courses often include work-integrated learning, such as a placement or a workplace project, because the skills are best learned on the job. The diploma builds your ability to communicate with staff and stakeholders, solve problems, make decisions under pressure, and manage resources. You will also practise giving feedback, running meetings, and writing reports. These are the skills employers look for when they promote someone into a first supervisory role.

Who it suits

This course suits people who are already working and want a formal qualification to move into management, or those who have some experience and want to build leadership skills before applying for team leader roles. It also works for recent school leavers who want a practical business qualification without committing to a three-year degree. International students should note that the Student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and after you finish you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. English requirements for international applicants are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall for courses at this level, with equivalents accepted. Confirm all details, including tuition, on the CRICOS register and the official page.

• Team leader or supervisor in retail, hospitality, logistics, or customer service, managing a small team and reporting to a manager.
• Office manager or administration coordinator in professional services, government, or not-for-profit organisations.
• Operations coordinator in manufacturing, transport, or warehousing, overseeing schedules and resources.
• Project support officer in construction, IT, or events, helping to plan and track project tasks.
• Frontline manager in health or community services, supervising support staff and coordinating rosters.
• Small business owner or operator, using the qualification to manage staff, budgets, and compliance.

These roles are found across Australian industries, including retail trade, accommodation and food services, health care and social assistance, transport, postal and warehousing, and professional services. The diploma also gives you a pathway into further study, such as a bachelor degree in business or management, with credit possibly available.