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MELBOURNE COURSE

Community Services

Why Choose This Course

Choosing a career in community services offers numerous benefits.

According to LinkedIn’s ‘Jobs on the Rise’ report, community services roles are among the most in-demand jobs in Australia, ensuring job stability and a wide range of employment opportunities.

This field involves a variety of tasks, such as providing emergency housing, food relief, counselling, advocacy, and drug and alcohol support. The 24/7 availability of many positions allows for flexible employment that fits your schedule. Working in community services means engaging with vulnerable populations facing domestic violence, substance abuse, mental health issues, financial hardship, discrimination, and housing insecurity. As a community services worker, you will empower clients by helping them identify their needs and goals, providing them with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions and access appropriate supports and services. Your efforts contribute to creating more inclusive and stronger communities.

For those with a passion for social justice, this career path offers the opportunity to advocate for individuals or community groups who have not yet found their voice. The long-term impact of your work may take time to materialize, but even minor improvements can significantly enhance someone’s life. Additionally, a career in community services provides personal growth through a deeper understanding of social issues and the development of valuable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and empathy. Overall, this profession promises career fulfillment, advancement, and the satisfaction of making a real difference in people’s lives.

For more information about  courses, please visit Skills Training Australia.

Diploma of Community Services (CHC52021)

CRICOS Course Code: 116078C

Duration: 8 terms (72 college weeks)

Cost: A$2,250 /term

Unit CodeUnit Title
CHCCCS004Assess co-existing needs
CHCCCS007Develop and implement service programs
CHCCCS019Recognise and respond to crisis situations
CHCCSM013Facilitate and review case management
CHCDEV005Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people in community work and services
CHCDFV001Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence
CHCDIV001Work with diverse people
CHCDIV002Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
CHCLEG003Manage legal and ethical compliance
CHCMGT005Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes
CHCPRP003Reflect on and improve own professional practice
HLTWHS003Maintain work health and safety
CHCCSL001Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
CHCCSM010Implement case management practice
CHCSOH013Work with people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
CHCMHS013Implement trauma informed care
CHCADV002Provide Advocacy and representation services
CHCCOM003Develop workplace communication strategies
CHCPRP001Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnership
HLTAID014Provide Advanced First Aid
Vocational / Employment Outcome:Community Worker, Disabilities services officer, Family support worker, Youth worker, Residential Care Officers

Diploma of Community Services (CHC52021) will develop skills in community services, case management and crisis enabling the student to manage, coordinate and deliver person-centred support services to individuals, groups and communities. Whether your passion lies in advocating for social justice or supporting vulnerable individuals and communities, this diploma sets the stage for a rewarding career in community services.

With their comprehensive training and practical experience, graduates are well-equipped to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

Students considering further study can enrol in a Bachelor of Social Work and pursue roles as social workers, providing support and assistance to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, domestic violence, mental health issues, or substance abuse.

Our diploma program delves deep into the core aspects of community services. The program has been designed to meet the requirements of the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA), is led by seasoned educators and industry experts, meaning adherence to the latest industry standards and practices. Through real-life case studies and hands-simulations, students will be equipped with the skills required to thrive in diverse community service roles.

Work Placement
Work placement provides our students with the opportunity to utilise their learnt skills and knowledge and apply them in an appropriate organisational setting.

Work placement is a requirement of the Diploma of Community Services. This is a structured educational component of the qualification and undertaking two (2) 200 Hour placements within the sector provides students with the opportunity to apply to become a registered member of the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA) the professional accrediting body. They will be conducted in terms 4 and 7 of the course.

Practical placement will provide you with opportunities:

  • To develop your units of competency undertaken by linking theory with current industry practice
  • Experience a real work environment in community services, such as in community development, youth work, children and family services, drug and alcohol services, housing support services, supported residential services, mental health, casework, advocacy and multicultural services.
  • Services may include, but are not limited to
    • Salvation Army in homelessness services, alcohol and other drug services, youth services etc.
    • Dallas Neighborhood House in, ‘creative minds’, ‘community lunch’, ‘coffee, cake and bingo’ etc.
    • Victorian Arabic Social Services (VASS) in the Community Visitor’s Scheme (CVS), Settlement Services and youth services etc.
  • Learn about industry trends, practices and employment options
  • Develop and build professional networks

Before you can start your work placement, you will be required to:
– provide a clear National Criminal History (Police) Check
– provide a Working with Children Check
– You may be required to apply for a NDIS Worker Screening Check.