Diploma of Community Services

Modification history

ReleaseComments
Release 1This qualification was first released in CHC Community Services Release 10.0.

Qualification description

This qualification reflects the role of community service workers involved in the delivery, management and coordination of person-centred services to individuals, groups, and communities.

At this level, workers have specialised skills in community services and work autonomously within their scope of practice under broad directions from senior management.

Workers support people to make change in their lives to improve personal and social wellbeing and may also have responsibility for the supervision of other workers and volunteers. They may also undertake case management and program coordination.

To achieve this qualification, the candidate must have completed at least 100 hours of work as detailed in the Assessment Requirements of units of competency.

The skills in this qualification must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.

Licensing/regulatory information

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.

Entry requirements

This qualification has no entry requirements.

Packaging rules

20 units must be completed:

  • 12 core units
  • 8 elective units, consisting of:
    • at least 6 units from amongst the electives listed in Group A, B, C, D or E below
    • up to 2 units from the electives listed below, any endorsed Training Package or accredited course.

Where appropriate, electives may be packaged to provide a qualification with a specialisation.

Packaging for each specialisation:

  • at least 4 Group A electives must be selected for the award of Diploma of Community Services(Case Management)
  • at least 3 Group B electives must be selected for award of the Diploma of Community Services (Social Housing)
  • at least 3 Group C electives must be selected for award of the Diploma of Community Services (Child, Youth and Family Welfare)
  • at least 3 Group D electives must be selected for award of the Diploma of Community Services (Responding to Family Violence).

 

Where two specialisations are completed, this should be noted on the testamur when awarding the qualification. For example, Diploma of Community Services (Case Management and Social Housing).

All electives chosen must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.

 

Course Duration

104 WEEKS

 

Delivery Method

face to face /online/ self-paced

 

Common Job Titles

  • Case Manager: Develop and monitor goal-directed plans for clients with complex needs.

  • Community Services Coordinator: Manage the delivery of person-centered services and supervise staff.

  • Family Support Worker: Assist families facing challenges like domestic violence or financial stress.

  • Youth Worker: Support young people with housing, mental health, and social participation.

  • Team Leader: Oversee day-to-day operations and lead teams within community organizations.

 

Top Industries

  • Health & Welfare Support: Providing crisis care, counseling, and social assistance services.

  • Child Protection & Youth Justice: Working within government and non-profit frameworks to support vulnerable children and teens.

  • Aged Care & Disability (NDIS): Leading programs for the elderly and those requiring complex disability support.

 

Growth & Pay

  • Starting Salary: Approximately $68,000 – $88,000 AUD for qualified diploma holders in 2026.

  • Next Step: Upgrade to an Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management or a Bachelor of Social Work to reach senior leadership or clinical roles.

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