Diploma of Community Services

The Diploma of Community Services is a two-year qualification for people who want to work directly with individuals, families and communities in Australia. It covers case management, community development, counselling skills, advocacy, and the legal and ethical frameworks that shape community services work. You learn how to assess client needs, develop support plans, refer people to the right services, and work within organisations that deliver housing, family support, mental health, disability and youth services.

This diploma sits at the diploma level of the Australian Qualifications Framework. It is delivered over two years, usually across semesters or trimesters, and is made up of units of study with credit points attached. Most diplomas include a supervised work placement, because community services is a field where you learn by doing. You will spend time in an organisation such as a neighbourhood centre, family support service or community health setting, working alongside experienced staff and building the practical skills employers look for. Assessment is a mix of written tasks, projects, and observed practical work.

You will gain skills in client interviewing, group work, case noting, report writing, crisis response, and working with people from different cultural backgrounds. The course also covers workplace safety, professional boundaries, and how to work within the Australian community services system, including referral pathways and government programmes. If you are already working in the sector, the diploma can formalise your experience. If you are starting out, it gives you a recognised qualification and a placement record to show employers.

This course suits people who want a practical, job-focused qualification rather than a long university degree. It is a good fit if you are patient, a good listener, and comfortable working with people who are dealing with hardship. International students should check the CRICOS register for the current tuition amount and confirm English requirements with South Sydney College directly. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Always check the official page for the most up-to-date details.

• Community services worker
• Case worker or case manager
• Support worker in family, youth or disability services
• Community development officer
• Client intake and referral officer
• Housing support worker
• Mental health support worker
• Employment services consultant

These roles are found in not-for-profit organisations, local councils, community health centres, government departments, and private providers across Australia.