Diploma of Community Services

The Diploma of Community Services at the Australia Institute of Business and Technology is a two-year qualification for people who want to work directly with individuals, families and communities. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it is practical and job-focused. You learn how to assess client needs, plan and deliver support, work within legal and ethical boundaries, and connect people to services such as housing, mental health, family support and emergency relief. The course also covers case management, group work, community development and advocacy.

Australian diplomas are usually made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. You might study full time or part time, and the course can be delivered over semesters or trimesters. Assessment is often a mix of written tasks, practical demonstrations, projects and supervised work placement. Because community services is a hands-on field, work-integrated learning is a core part of the qualification. You will spend time in a real organisation, under supervision, working with clients and learning how services actually run. This placement is what makes the diploma credible to employers.

You will build skills in communication, interviewing, case noting, referral, crisis response, cultural safety and teamwork. You will also learn about the Australian community services system, including the roles of government, non-government organisations and community groups. The course suits people who are patient, good listeners and want to make a difference. It is also a good fit if you are already working in the sector without a formal qualification, or if you want a pathway into further study such as a bachelor degree in social work or community services. Many students enter straight from school, while others are changing careers or returning to study.

English requirements for international applicants are set at IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall for most courses, but social work and similar fields often ask for 7.0–7.5. The Australia Institute of Business and Technology accepts TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and its own English programmes as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, your visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Always check the official CRICOS page and the institute's website for the exact entry requirements, placement arrangements and unit details before you apply.

• Community services worker
• Case worker
• Support worker
• Family support worker
• Youth worker
• Mental health support worker
• Housing support worker
• Community development worker
• Client services officer
• Team leader in a community organisation (with experience)

These roles are found in non-government organisations, government departments, community health centres, women's refuges, youth services, disability services, aged care and multicultural services across Australia.