Make a difference to the lives of others with this advanced qualification. This course builds the skills and knowledge you need to deliver person-centred service across a range of community-based programs.

This qualification reflects the roles of community services, case management and social housing workers involved in the managing, co-ordinating and/or delivering of person-centred services to individuals or groups.

Theory

A diploma of community services provides the comprehensive theoretical foundation that individuals need to understand diverse social issues. It also promotes a broad understanding of the root causes of these issues, making it easier to create effective intervention strategies.

Theoretical knowledge alone isn’t enough to combat the world’s most pressing challenges. To help bridge this gap, diploma programs often include practical components like case studies and role-playing exercises. These give students the opportunity to apply their new skills in a safe and supported environment.

TrainSmart’s Diploma of Community Services is one such program. It combines theory and practice to equip students with the skills, industry-specific expertise, and the confidence to succeed in their chosen careers. The course offers specialised training in case management, preparing graduates for roles such as intake officers or support coordinators in community services organisations. It can lead to further qualifications, such as a diploma of case management from the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA). This qualification reflects the position requirements for community services, case management and/or social housing workers who manage, co-ordinate and/or deliver person-centred services to people in their communities, working autonomously under broad directions from senior management.

Practice

A career in community services offers the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. You’ll develop the specialised skills, knowledge and confidence to empower people, regardless of age, gender or social circumstances. You’ll learn how to build relationships and work effectively with diverse groups, as well as develop your expertise in organisational policy development, service planning and strategic service delivery.

A diploma course will also prepare you for a range of roles, including community access coordinator, family and youth support worker, employment support worker, and case manager. These positions can be found in the government, for-profit and not-for-profit community services sectors. Want to find out more? Take this short course quiz and get a feel for the industry.

Skills

TrainSmart’s course gives you the specialised skills needed to work in the community services sector. You’ll learn how to provide direct support, create personalised care plans for clients and coordinate service programs. You’ll also develop your advocacy skills to empower clients and help them access the resources they need.

The 8 general elective subjects give you a well-rounded understanding of the community services industry and how to address social disadvantage. You’ll also build your professional network and gain practical experience through field trips and guest speakers.

The industry requires workers who have a high level of problem sensitivity and are able to foster positive, friendly relationships with their clients. You must also be able to maintain detailed client records and use technology to streamline administrative tasks. This is a nationally recognised qualification (CHC52015) and is aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework. Upon completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment from Mercury Colleges.

Careers

A career in community services offers diverse and fulfilling pathways. Whether you want to help those in need or wish to support the elderly, working in this industry gives you the skills and experience to improve others’ lives.

The industry involves many different jobs, including disability services, aged care, family and child services, mental health and behavioural support, youth work, and drug and alcohol support. All of these roles involve taking care of people, which can be confronting and requires a strong personality to thrive.

The diploma also prepares you to apply your knowledge to advocacy, develop community programs and workplace communication strategies, and address issues of cultural diversity and social inequality. A natural next step is to complete a Bachelor’s degree in community services or social work, which opens up more advanced career opportunities. Many of your diploma credits can be transferred into a Bachelor’s program, so you can finish your degree quicker.