Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Diploma of Leadership and Management is a one-year qualification for people who want to step into team leader, supervisor or frontline management roles. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it is a practical, job-focused qualification that sits between a certificate and a bachelor degree. You will study how to manage a team, plan and monitor work, manage budgets and finances, lead effective workplace relationships, and support innovation and continuous improvement. The course is delivered over one year, typically across two semesters or trimesters, and you will complete a set of units of study, each with credit points. The exact unit list and credit points are confirmed on the official course page.

Assessment is usually a mix of written tasks, case studies, projects and practical simulations. Some units may include work-integrated learning, where you apply your skills in a real or simulated workplace. This diploma can also provide a pathway into higher qualifications. If you complete it, you may receive credit towards a bachelor degree in business or management, which means you could finish your degree faster. Credit is granted as units of study and credit points, and you need to check with the institution about the specific arrangements.

The skills you gain are directly transferable to the workplace. You will learn how to communicate with influence, manage conflict, delegate tasks, monitor performance, and make decisions using financial and operational information. You will also develop your ability to lead a diverse team and manage your own work priorities. These are the skills employers look for when they promote someone into their first supervisory role.

This course suits people who are already working in a team and want to move into leadership, or those who have some work experience and want a formal qualification to support a promotion. It also suits recent school leavers who want a practical, shorter qualification before entering the workforce or continuing to a 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, or equivalent, but you must check the official page for the exact requirement and for the Department of Home Affairs' separate Student visa English threshold.

• Team Leader
• Supervisor
• Frontline Manager
• Office Manager
• Project Coordinator
• Retail Manager
• Hospitality Supervisor
• Administration Manager

These roles are found across Australian industries including retail, hospitality, business services, manufacturing, health administration, and community services. The diploma also provides a pathway to further study in business or management at the bachelor level.