Diploma of Community Services

The community services industry is one of the largest industry areas in Australia. Close to 1.7 million people were employed in this industry, which is projected to increase to over 1.9 million by 2023. This is an industry where passionate people with the right skills are always in demand. Melbourne Polytechnic's Diploma of Community Services CHC52015 graduates learn the skills to make tangible differences in the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged people.

Melbourne Polytechnic's Diploma of Community Services CHC52015 takes your existing qualifications and skills in community services and builds on them to advance your career. This qualification is highly regarded in the sector and offers flexible placements, with the option of arranging a placement in your current workplace. Our on-site community services facilities are fully equipped to help you develop real-world skills. You might also have the opportunity to work on initiatives with our community partners. Delivered by qualified staff with wide-ranging community sector experience, including former Melbourne Polytechnic students that now work in the field, our approach focuses on human development throughout life. Our teachers know the industry well and are keen to pass on their practical knowledge to see you succeed.

This course will prepare you to work in a broad range of community services roles in direct practice or team leadership. Areas of employment may include case management, family violence support, child protection, refugee and general migrant settlement, and housing support. You'll be qualified to work as a child welfare officer, social housing coordinator, community services case manager or in a related role. Once you have successfully completed the Diploma of Community Services, we might advise you to apply to tertiary institutions offering courses in social work and community development.

Students in this cohort will be simultaneously enrolled in Course in Identifying, Reporting and Responding to Family Violence Risk 22510VIC to deepen their skills and knowledge in reporting and responding to domestic violence.

The additional unit VU22510 Identify and provide initial response to family violence risk is included in the Melbourne Polytechnic program in acknowledgement that the community service workforce is key to reporting and responding appropriately to domestic violence.