Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management is a two-year qualification for people who want to run teams, projects or a small business. It sits at diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which means it's practical and job-focused. You'll study how to plan and manage resources, lead and develop a team, manage budgets and financial plans, and handle workplace relationships and risk. There's a strong focus on communication, problem-solving and making decisions with real consequences.

Australian qualifications like this are built from units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. You'll typically study full-time over two years, with semesters or trimesters depending on the provider's calendar. Assessment is usually a mix of written tasks, case studies, projects and practical simulations. Many diploma courses include a work placement or project where you apply what you've learned in a real organisation. You should check the official course page on the CRICOS register for the exact structure, unit list and assessment details.

Skills you'll pick up include leading and motivating a team, managing operational plans, overseeing budgets, and dealing with conflict and change. You'll also learn to write reports, run meetings and present to stakeholders. The course suits people already working in a supervisory role who want formal recognition, or those stepping up from a trade or administrative job into management. It's also a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in business or management, with credit for your diploma units.

International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and after finishing 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 an equivalent test like TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. The Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register, confirm current costs and entry requirements on the official page before you apply.

• Team Leader or Supervisor, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics
• Office Manager, professional services, government, healthcare
• Project Coordinator, construction, IT, events, community organisations
• Operations Coordinator, transport, warehousing, utilities
• Small Business Owner or Manager, trades, retail, services
• Customer Service Manager, banking, insurance, telecommunications
• Administration Manager, education, not-for-profit, local government