Diploma of Community Services

The Diploma of Community Services is a vocational qualification for people who want to work directly with individuals, families and communities in Australia. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework and is delivered over 1.5 years. You will study subjects that cover case management, community development, counselling skills, legal and ethical requirements, working with diverse groups, and responding to clients in crisis. Assessment is practical: you will write case notes, conduct simulated client interviews, develop community project plans, and reflect on your own practice. The course includes a supervised work placement in a community services organisation, which is a core requirement for graduation. Placements are usually arranged by the college and can take place in neighbourhood centres, family support services, homelessness services, disability organisations or aged care providers. You will be expected to complete a minimum number of hours, typically around 100 to 200, depending on the training package rules. The diploma is not a university degree, but it can lead to entry-level jobs and can also be a pathway into a bachelor's degree in social work or community development, with credit for prior study. Credit is granted as units of study and credit points, following the institution's credit transfer policy. The course is delivered in semesters or trimesters, and you will need to complete all core and elective units to qualify. English language requirements for international students are IELTS Academic 6.0 to 6.5 overall, or equivalent. For social work, some institutions ask for 7.0 to 7.5, so check the official page for the exact requirement for this diploma. The Student visa also has its own English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. While studying, 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, which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period. Confirm all details, including tuition fees, on the CRICOS register and the college's website.

• Community services worker
• Case worker
• Support worker
• Community development officer
• Family support worker
• Youth worker
• Disability support worker
• Aged care support worker
• Client services officer
• Housing support worker

These roles are found in government departments, local councils, not-for-profit organisations, community health centres, family services, homelessness services, disability services, aged care providers and youth services across Australia.