Diploma of Community Services

The Diploma of Community Services at Brisbane College of Australia is a practical qualification for people who want to work directly with individuals, families and communities. Over 1.5 years, you'll learn how to assess client needs, plan and deliver support, run group activities, and work within the legal and ethical rules that govern community services in Australia. The course covers areas like case management, community development, counselling skills, and working with people from diverse backgrounds.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are built from units of study, each with a set number of credit points. You'll typically study full-time across semesters or trimesters, with a mix of classroom learning and hands-on practice. Because community services is a field where you learn by doing, the course includes a professional placement component. You'll spend time in a real organisation, think community health centres, family support services, or youth programs, supervised by experienced staff. Some diplomas also include a capstone project where you pull together everything you've learned to address a real community issue.

What you'll learn

By the end, you'll be able to conduct client assessments, develop support plans, advocate for people's rights, and work safely with clients who may be in crisis. You'll also build skills in record-keeping, teamwork, and communicating with people from different cultures. The course teaches you to apply the Australian community services sector's standards and legal requirements, so you're ready for the workplace from day one.

Who it's for

This diploma suits people who want a career helping others but don't need a full degree. Maybe you're already working in a related area and want a formal qualification, or you're changing careers and want to get into the sector quickly. It's also a pathway to further study, you could go on to a bachelor's degree in social work or community services with credit for your diploma units.

English and visa information

International students need to meet English requirements. For social work, the standard is higher than for many other fields, typically IELTS Academic 6.5 to 7.0 overall, because you'll be communicating with vulnerable people. The college accepts TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and its own English programmes as equivalents. Remember, the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After you graduate, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. Always check the official page for current details.

• Community services worker
• Case manager
• Support worker
• Youth worker
• Family support worker
• Community development officer
• Client services coordinator
• Housing support worker
• Mental health support worker
• Aged care support worker

These roles are found in community health centres, non-profit organisations, government agencies, family support services, youth services, and disability support providers across Australia.