Diploma of Community Services
Step into a leadership role in community services with this nationally recognised Diploma. Build advanced skills in case management, program coordination, complex needs assessment, crisis response, trauma-informed care and culturally safe practice — and graduate ready to step into roles that change lives. Delivered over 52 weeks (49 weeks of teaching plus 3 placement weeks). The course includes a 120-hour…
Three Ways to Study
Every pathway covers the same units, the same fees, and leads to the same nationally recognised qualification.
Blended
Campus + onlineTwo days on campus at Kilkenny plus one day online via the eSkilled LMS. Around 20 contact hours per week.
Online
Fully remoteLive virtual classes plus monitored online study — learn from anywhere with reliable internet. Around 20 contact hours per week.
Classroom-Based
Fully on-campusThree days a week in the classroom at Kilkenny, with no online component. Same units, fees and qualification as the other pathways.
What You'll Learn
Build practical skills the care sector needs.
Step into a leadership role in community services with this nationally recognised Diploma. Build advanced skills in case management, program coordination, complex needs assessment, crisis response, trauma-informed care and culturally safe practice — and graduate ready to step into roles that change lives.
Delivered over 52 weeks (49 weeks of teaching plus 3 placement weeks). The course includes a 120-hour supervised workplace placement and an 8-elective specialisation focused on mental health, AOD, and advocacy work. Eligible students may access SkillsSA subsidised training from $850.
Case Management Specialisation
Designed with employers — graduate ready to work.
120 hours
Real-world experience with industry partners.
Nationally Recognised
RTO 45269 — ASQA-regulated qualification.
Small Class Sizes
Maximum 25 students per class — personal attention.
20 Units of Competency
12 core units plus 8 electives.
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| CHCCCS004 | Assess co-existing needs |
| CHCCCS007 | Develop and implement service programs |
| CHCCCS019 | Recognise and respond to crisis situations |
| CHCCSM017 | Facilitate and review case management |
| CHCDEV005 | Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people in community work and services |
| CHCDFV001 | Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence |
| CHCDIV001 | Work with diverse people |
| CHCDIV002 | Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety |
| CHCLEG003 | Manage legal and ethical compliance |
| CHCMGT005 | Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes |
| CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice |
| HLTWHS003 | Maintain work health and safety |
| Unit Code | Unit Title |
|---|---|
| CHCMHS001 | Work with people with mental health issues |
| CHCMHS005 | Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and AOD issues |
| CHCMHS011 | Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing |
| CHCMHS013 | Implement trauma informed care |
| CHCCCS003 | Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide |
| CHCADV005 | Provide systems advocacy services |
| CHCCCS009 | Facilitate responsible behaviour |
| CHCPOL003 | Research and apply evidence to practice |
How It Works
A clear, supported pathway from your first enquiry to graduation.
Apply
Submit your enquiry, complete the LLN assessment, and attend a pre-training review. Our team guides you through every step.
Study
Practical, hands-on learning with experienced industry trainers in small classes — face-to-face campus sessions plus online study.
Placement
Complete 120 hours of supervised workplace placement, building real-world experience with our industry partners.
Graduate
Receive your nationally recognised qualification and step into your career with the skills and industry connections to succeed.
Launch Your Care Career
Graduates are in demand across aged care, disability support, NDIS-funded organisations, and the broader community services sector.
Case Manager / Case Coordinator
Competitive industry rates
Community Development Worker
Competitive industry rates
Community Services Worker
Competitive industry rates
Family Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Social Housing Worker
Competitive industry rates
Program Coordinator (Community Services)
Competitive industry rates
Youth Worker
Competitive industry rates
Welfare Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Community Rehabilitation & Support Worker
Competitive industry rates
Client Services Coordinator
Competitive industry rates
Indicative Salary Range
Fees & Funding
Transparent pricing with flexible payment options.
Fee-for-Service
Payment Plan: 7 instalments — $1,450 at enrolment, then 5 instalments of $1,200, then a final $800
View Refund PolicySkillsSA Subsidised
Eligibility and subsidy amounts are determined by Skills SA. Visit skills.sa.gov.au or contact us to check your eligibility.
Subsidised training fees for this course are funded by the Skills SA program of the Government of South Australia. Eligibility is determined by Skills SA — visit skills.sa.gov.au for details.
Additional Costs (Pre-Placement Requirements)
These clearances must be obtained before starting your workplace placement. Costs are not included in the course fee.
National Police Check ($25–$65)
NDIS Worker Screening Check (if placement involves NDIS participants)
First Aid HLTAID011 ($100–$200)
Working with Children / Vulnerable People Check (varies by state/territory)
Immunisations (as required by host organisation)
Entry Requirements
No prior qualifications in community services are required. Here's what you need to get started.
Age Requirement
Must be 18 years of age or older at course commencement.
Education
Year 12 or equivalent is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants with prior study or work experience in community services, health, disability or mental health are well regarded.
Language, Literacy & Numeracy
LLND at ACSF Level 3 or above. Assessment completed during the application process.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
A valid USI is required for enrolment. Create one at www.usi.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about this qualification.
Ready to Start Your Career in Care?
Take the first step today. Fill in your details and our admissions team will be in touch within 24 hours to guide you through the enrolment process.