CHC52021

Diploma of Community Services

Learning Mode

Online/FacetoFace

Location

SA

Duration

18 Months

Study Load

Full Time

Course Overview

The Diploma of Community Services equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Through a strong focus on real-world application, the course prepares you to navigate complex situations, provide person-centred support, and contribute to positive change across a variety of community settings.
What you’ll learn:
  • How to support diverse clients through complex and sensitive issues, including risk and family violence.
  • Skills in case management, advocacy, community development, and designing and delivering programs.
  • Knowledge of mental health, child protection, social justice frameworks, and trauma informed, strength-based practice.
  • Leadership, teamwork, and service coordination skills.
  • Real-world experience through two 100-hour supervised work placements.
Fee free places are available for eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, supported by the Government of South Australia through Skills SA.

Prerequisites

It is recommended that individuals seeking entry have sufficient relevant work experience to demonstrate a strong likelihood of success at this qualification level in a role that involves providing support, advocacy, case management, or client-focused services.

Units of Competency

1 Case Management Focus

  • CHCCSM010 Implement case management practice
  • CHCCSM012 Coordinate complex case requirements
  • CHCCSM013 Facilitate and review case management

2 Inclusive and Restorative Practices 

  • CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
    cultural safety
  • CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
  • CHCDEV005 Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people
    in community work and services
  • CHCCCS007 Develop and implement service programs

3 Navigating Complexities 

  • CHCCCS003, Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
  • CHCCCS019, Recognise and respond to crisis situations
  • CHCCCS004, Assess co-existing needs

4 Responding to Client Adversities

  • CHCDFV001, Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence
  • CHCPRT025, Identify and report children and young people at
    risk
  • CHCLEG003, Manage legal and ethical compliance

5 Counselling in Focus

  • CHCCSL001, Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
  • CHCCSL002, Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling
    interview skills
  • CHCPRP003, Reflect on and improve own professional practice
  • CHCCSM009, Facilitate goal directed planning

6 Strengthening Professional Practice

  • HLTWHS003 Maintain work health and safety
  • CHCMGT005 Facilitate workplace debriefing and support
    process
  • CHCCSM014 Provide case management supervision

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) credit may be granted for relevant prior study or experience. For more details on the RPL process, visit: RPL page

Fee

Full Fee: $7000. SA Government Subsidised Training Tuition Gap Fee: $1500 or $770 with a valid concession card.
For more information visit https://socialrelations.edu.au//fees-and-payment/

Qualification Information Brochure

Course Details:

Date: 28 July 2025
Venue: Hindmarsh, Berri and Port Augusta

Nationally Recognised
Training (NRT)

Nationally recognised training (NRT) leads to vocational qualifications and credentials that are recognised across Australia.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the cultural, spiritual and economic sovereignty of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

We understand that the ongoing violation of this sovereignty continues to harm Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s relationships, health, wellbeing and aspirations.

We are committed to strengthening the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities.

We recognise that respecting and nurturing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is a benefit for all Australians.

We especially honour the Kaurna Elders of the Adelaide Plains and the Elders of the River Murray and Mallee Region, which includes: Ngaiawang, Ngawait, Nganguruku, Erawirung, Ngintait, Ngaraite, Ngarkat and small parts of Maraura and Daanggali, and Elders of Barngarla Country in the Far North and Boandik Land in Mount Gambier, upon whose country Relationships Australia South Australia offices are located.

As educators we recognise the Ancient Universities and ways of knowing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have existed for millennia, and we respect and honour First Nations expertise.