Diploma of Community Services Online
Elevate your passion for community betterment into a fulfilling career by enrolling in the CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services – a transformative educational experience. As a testament to the growing importance of this sector, the Australian Government is significantly bolstering resources, resulting in a projected threefold surge in demand for skilled professionals in the field over the upcoming decade. Your journey towards impactful change starts here, where your aspirations align with a future of meaningful opportunities.
Study from as little as $72, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study from as little as $48, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $77, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $53, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $29, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
About the online course
Please note, this supercedes our previous course, the Diploma of Community Services (CHC52015).
Create a positive impact within your community while experiencing the fulfilment of a rewarding career.
Empowering Communities: Your Path to Professional Excellence
Unlock a realm of opportunity with our CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services tailored for aspiring community services professionals. This credential epitomises the role of dedicated community services workers who champion person-centred services for individuals, groups, and communities.
At this stage, our learners acquire specialised prowess in community services, enabling them to operate autonomously within their designated sphere, guided by overarching directives from senior management.
Our graduates facilitate transformative change, enhancing personal and societal well-being. This journey may also encompass leadership over fellow team members and volunteers, alongside adept case management and seamless program coordination.
To attain this prestigious CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services, learners immerse themselves in a minimum of 200 hours of practical experience as outlined in the Assessment Requirements of the competency units.
Rest assured, the skills embraced within this CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services are aligned with Commonwealth and State or Territory regulations, as well as adhering to Australian standards and industry best practices.
It's noteworthy that this CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services doesn't presently require specific occupational licensing, certification, or legislative prerequisites. Your journey towards professional growth starts here.
Who is this course for?
Discover the gateway to a meaningful career with our entry-level CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services in community services. This credential is tailored for individuals seeking to build foundational skills and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Under the guidance of seasoned mentors, you'll gain the expertise to offer essential counselling, referrals, and promotional services.
Our program is designed to cater to those aiming to cultivate specialised abilities in interpersonal engagement. Community service workers play a pivotal role in providing personal, social, physical, and emotional support. Effective communication is key in this domain, requiring exceptional listening skills and the capacity to offer valuable advice and guidance. Clients facing a variety of challenges, whether physical, mental, familial, or situational, rely on workers who embody qualities of non-judgment, patience, care, and a profound understanding of available assistance services.
Join us on this journey to impact lives, equipped with the tools and aptitudes that empower you to provide compassionate and effective support within the realm of community services.
What will you learn online?
Unleash Your Potential: Diploma of Community Services
Embark on a transformative journey with the Diploma of Community Services, a gateway to launching your career within the vibrant community sector. Equip yourself to offer invaluable support, advocacy, and interventions to individual clients, groups, and entire communities, spanning a diverse spectrum of services.
Throughout this comprehensive program, you will master essential principles of community services, delving into the intricacies of operating within a community development framework. Learn to champion community participation and foster social inclusion, all while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. Sharpen your abilities to assess co-existing needs and interact effectively with a diverse array of individuals.
Prepare to carve your niche in the dynamic landscape of community services, armed with a skillset that empowers you to make a tangible impact. The Diploma of Community Services is your conduit to a fulfilling and purpose-driven career path.
Who is this online course for?
Possible Career Opportunities
Details of the online course
Student entry requirements
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident.
- Have completed their education to a level which is equivalent to an Australian Senior High School Year 12 or has completed an AQF Certificate IV in Community Services.
- Have suitable language, literacy and numeracy skills to read and comprehend learning materials and perform tasks related to recording workplace documents including reading and writing detailed reports, case notes, reports and other documents, interpreting workplace policy and procedure and reporting hazards. Learners are required to pass an online LLN assessment test
- Be capable of completing 200 hours of work placement in a suitable health facility.
- Have sound computer skills to navigate simple software to complete the online component of this course and must be able to use intermediate level Word features in order to produce and present word-processed documents/ reports.
- Have access to a laptop and internet to complete this online course.
- Have a valid Working with Children Check (or be prepared to obtain this prior to work placement).
- Have a valid Police Check (or be prepared to obtain this prior to work placement).
- Have the required immunisations, including COVID-19 vaccination, as required to attend the placement facility. Please note, additional immunisations may be required given the Government or placement facility’s health policy changes.
- These entry requirements will be confirmed through information collected on the enrolment form and during the enrolment interview.
How will you learn online?
Holistic Blended Learning Approach
Experience a comprehensive learning journey through our innovative blended delivery model, expertly designed to cater to diverse learning styles. This engaging approach seamlessly integrates various elements to provide you with a well-rounded education:
- Synchronous Online Classroom Sessions: Immerse yourself in Trainer-led, synchronous online classroom sessions that foster real-time interaction and engagement.
- Structured Self-Paced Online Study: Utilise our platform for structured, self-paced online study, enabling you to grasp the material at your own pace while maintaining your commitments.
- Dynamic Skills Development and Practice: Elevate your skills during dedicated interactive sessions that encourage hands-on learning and practical application.
Real-world Work Placement: Gain invaluable real-world experience through a comprehensive 10-week work placement, equipping you with practical insights and industry exposure.
Complementing this comprehensive training are personalised one-on-one unit progression mentoring sessions, tailored to your unique needs. The entire program spans 78 weeks (18 months), thoughtfully divided as follows:
- 62 Weeks: Engage in scheduled class training and assessment, ensuring a strong foundation of knowledge and skills.
- 6 Weeks Break: Enjoy well-deserved breaks, with 4 weeks at the end of the year and 2 weeks mid-year, allowing you to recharge.
- 10 Weeks Work Placement: Embark on a 20-hour-per-week work placement over 10 weeks, gaining practical experience and industry connections.
Seize this holistic educational opportunity that blends theory, practice, and real-world exposure to propel your career forward.
Online Learner Support
Hader Institute provides support to all learners through the trainer and the Hader Institute of Education Learner Support Officer.
Online Assessment requirements
The assessment is conducted using a combination of realistic workplace tasks, projects, knowledge tests, response to case studies and completing practical demonstrations. The following provides a brief explanation of the assessment methods that are to be applied: Written tasks; Case Study; Practical Activities and Demonstrations through Zoom or other online platforms.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applicants can apply for recognition of their existing skills and knowledge that are relevant to the units of competency within the program. See the Hader Institute of Education Learner Handbook and policies & procedures .
Available Online Units
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services Online is delivered using the course structure outlined below:
Core Units
CHCCCS004: Assess co-existing needs
CHCCCS007: Develop and implement service programs
CHCCCS019: Recognise and respond to crisis situations
CHCCSM013: Facilitate and review case management (100 hours)
CHCDEV005: Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people in community work and services (100 hours)
CHCDFV001: Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence
CHCDIV001: Work with diverse people
CHCDIV002: Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
CHCLEG003: Manage legal and ethical compliance
CHCMGT005: Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes
CHCPRP003: Reflect on and improve own professional practice
HLTWHS003: Maintain work health and safety
Electives
CHCADV005: Provide systems advocacy services
CHCCSL001: Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
CHCCSL002: Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills
CHCDEV004: Confirm development status
CHCMHS007: Work effectively in trauma informed care
CHCMHS011: Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing
CHCPOL003: Research and apply evidence to practice
CHCPRP001: Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships
Course Unit Descriptions
CHCCCS004 Assess co-existing needs
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to assess the diverse and multi-faceted needs of people and determine both internal and external services required to meet those needs.
This unit applies in a range of community service contexts.
CHCCCS007 Develop and implement service programs
This course describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and implement service programs that reflect an organisation’s purpose, philosophy and goals.
It covers planning and developing program goals, objectives and delivery strategies in consultation with relevant stakeholders; determining client eligibility for services; developing recruitment, induction and orientation processes for staff and volunteers; monitoring, evaluating and modifying programs in response to client feedback and changes in service needs; and maintaining program quality assurance processes.
It applies to workers who develop, implement and review programs that provide services to the community. They work with a degree of independence and under general direction within established guidelines and are responsible for their own outputs.
CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to recognise situations where people may be in imminent crisis, and then to work collaboratively to minimise any safety concerns and make plans to access required support services.
This unit applies to any community services worker involved in crisis intervention. Management of the crisis may involve face-to-face, telephone or remote contact with persons involved.
CHCCSM013 Facilitate and review case management (100 hours)
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to plan, monitor and review case management. Workers at this level work within organisational policies and procedures and may work autonomously or in consultation with supervisor or team leader. This unit applies to work in a range of health and community services contexts.
CHCDEV005 Analyse impacts of sociological factors on clients in community work and services (W/P)
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to analyse how sociological factors impact on clients of community work and services.
It covers identifying and analysing sociological factors that impact on clients of community work and services, including those related to class, culture, ethnicity, gender, religion, age and disability.
This course unit will provide you with the skills and knowledge to analyse the impacts of sociological factors on clients in community work and services. You will learn how to conduct an assessment of community work and services needs, develop appropriate responses to these needs and evaluate the effectiveness of your response.
CHCDFV001 Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. This unit applies to all workers.
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. This unit applies to all workers.
CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
The unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety issues in the workplace, model cultural safety in own work practice, and develop strategies to enhance cultural safety.
This unit applies to people working in a broad range of roles including those involved in direct client service, program planning, development and evaluation contexts.
CHCLEG003 Manage legal and ethical compliance
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to manage legal and ethical compliance within an organisation or service, including managing ethical conduct of individuals, implementing organisational procedures for managing compliance with relevant legislation, and promoting community awareness of legal and ethical requirements.
This unit applies to all workers who have responsibility for ensuring that their organisation or service complies with relevant legislation and ethical standards.
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
1. Develop and implement organisation procedures for managing ethical conduct
- Promote community awareness of legal and ethical requirements
- Implement organisational procedures for managing compliance with relevant legislation
- Develop and implement plans to manage ethical conduct of individuals in accordance with organisational procedures
2. Monitor and review ethical conduct
- Review organisational procedures for managing ethical conduct regularly
- Investigate and respond to alleged breaches of ethical conduct in accordance with organisational procedures
- Identify improvements to organisational procedures for managing ethical conduct."
Workers at this level exercise considerable autonomy in managing compliance within the context of their own area of responsibility. They may provide leadership and guidance to others, including volunteers.
CHCMGT005 Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes following critical incidents.
This unit applies to workers who are required to provide debriefing and support following critical incidents in a range of community service contexts. The level of knowledge required is broad but does not extend to specialist skills.
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
1. Prepare for debriefing
- Consult with relevant people to develop a debriefing plan
- Obtain required resources
2. Conduct debriefing
- Conduct debriefing in accordance with the plan
3. Follow up after debriefing
- Review debriefing process
- Identify improvements to the debriefing process
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
The unit reflects the role of workers who are engaged in applying a range of well-developed community service, case management and facilitation skills to work collaboratively with clients and other professionals. They may provide services in a range of community service contexts.
On completion of this unit, workers will have the skills and knowledge required to reflect on their own professional practice, to identify opportunities for improvement and make changes to enhance their effectiveness.
By the end of this unit, students should be able to:
1. Reflect on practice
- Evaluate own performance against relevant standards
- Identify areas of practice that need improvement
2. Seek feedback on practice
- Seek feedback from colleagues, clients and others on areas of practice that need improvement
3. Identify opportunities for improving practice
- Analyse feedback received to identify opportunities for improving practice
4. Implement improvements to practice
- Develop and implement a plan to improve own professional practice
5. Monitor and review changes to practice
- Monitor and review changes to own professional practice against the plan
HLTWHS003 Maintain work health and safety
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to implement and monitor work health and safety (WHS) policies, procedures and work practices as part of a small work team.
This unit applies to workers who have a key role in maintaining WHS in an organisation, including duty of care for other workers.
Electives
CHCADV005 Provide systems advocacy services
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to advocate and ensure that government, community and organisational systems broadly support and uphold human rights.
This unit applies to workers in a health, community services or advocacy settings who undertake a leadership role in influencing social and system changes. Workers at this level will also advocate for change and continuous improvement at the organisational level to improve client outcomes and service quality.
CHCCSL001 Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish and maintain a helping relationship with clients. This unit applies to workers who provide counselling services to clients in a range
This diploma of community services online course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to support clients, manage caseloads and work collaboratively with other professionals.
You will develop an understanding of human development and behaviour, learn how to apply counselling skills in a range of settings and explore ways to build respectful relationships.
Upon successful completion of this course unit, you will have the skills to:
- establish and maintain rapport with clients
- assess client needs
- develop case management plans
- work collaboratively with other professionals.
CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to conduct a specialist counselling interview with an individual or group.
This unit applies to workers who use highly developed interpersonal skills to conduct counselling interviews with clients in a range of community service contexts. They exercise considerable discretion and judgement in planning, conducting and evaluating the interview process.
CHCDEV004 Confirm developmental status
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to review the developmental status of a child or a young person.
Work at this level may require guidance and supervision from appropriately qualified personnel, especially where provision of direct client services is involved.
This unit applies to people working in a range of community service contexts including juvenile justice, alcohol and other drugs services, mental health, and child protection.
CHCMHS007 Work effectively in trauma informed care
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to practice and contribute to the continuous improvement of trauma informed care within a service.
This unit applies to individuals working in the community services and health sectors where services are informed by the knowledge and understanding of central trauma, particularly the impact of interpersonal violence.
CHCMHS011 Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work collaboratively with individuals to assess, promote and review all aspects of wellbeing.
This unit applies to work with people living with mental illness in a range of community services work contexts.
CHCPOL003 Research and apply evidence to practice
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish the information need, gather information and critically analyse the information for relevance to own work.
This unit applies to health and community service workers who need to research existing information to support and improve their work practice. It does not cover primary research.
CHCPRP001 Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify networking and collaboration needs and develop formal and informal partnerships to enhance service delivery and improve professional practice.
This unit applies to work in all industry sectors, and to individuals who take pro-active responsibility for improving collaboration between workers and organisations.
What career could I have?
Careers in the community services sector may include:
- Community Care Manager: plans, organises and manages community care services.
- Coordinator of Volunteer Work: matches volunteers with organisations and projects that need their help.
- Team Leader: coordinates the work of a team of community service workers.
- Care Team Leader: manages a team of carers who work in the community to support people with disabilities, mental health disorders or other needs.
- Family Services Coordinator: works with families to identify their needs and connect them with services that can help.
- Youth Worker: works with young people aged 12-25 who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse, unemployment or crime.
- Support Facilitator (Community Services): collaborates with community members to figure out what kind of support they need and connect them with the appropriate services.
- Community Housing Resources Worker: helps people with housing needs to access suitable accommodation and support services.
- Community Development Worker for Social Housing: works with residents of social housing estates to develop a sense of community and improve their quality of life.
- Community Recreation Coordinator: develops and coordinates recreation programs for community members.
- Housing Manager: responsible for the management of social housing properties.
- Housing Assistant: provides support and assistance to tenants of social housing.
- Assistant Community Worker: provides support to community workers and assists with the delivery of community programs.
- Community Worker: works with individuals, families and groups in the community to help them overcome social, economic and physical disadvantages.
- Aboriginal Housing Worker: works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, to help them access safe and suitable housing.
- Community Services Coordinator: coordinates the delivery of community services.
- Case Coordinator (Disability): works with people with disabilities to assess their support needs and develop individualised plans.
- Youth Housing Support Worker: works with young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, to help them access safe and suitable housing.
- Family Support Worker: provides support to families who are experiencing difficulties.
- Community Access Coordinator: assists people with disabilities in accessing community facilities and services.
- Community Connections Officer: works with community members to connect them with services and support.
- Pastoral Care Counsellor: provides counselling and support to people who are experiencing difficulties.
- Aboriginal Neighbourhood House Coordinator: works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to connect them with services and support.
- Case Coordinator (Community Services): works with clients of community services to assess their needs and develop individualised plans.
- Senior Youth Worker: provides support and assistance to young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
- Disability Team Leader: manages a team of workers who provide support to people with disabilities.
- Support Facilitator (Disability): collaborates with people with disabilities to figure out what kind of support they need and connect them with the appropriate services.
- Community Housing Worker: helps people with housing needs to access suitable accommodation and support services.
- Community Work Coordinator: coordinates the delivery of community programs and services.
- Early Intervention Worker: works with families who have a young child with a disability, to provide support and assistance.
- Community Program Coordinator: coordinates community programs and services.
- Pastoral Care Worker & Assistant Community Services Worker: provides counselling and support to people who are experiencing difficulties.
- Homelessness Services Manager: responsible for the management of homelessness services.
- Outreach Worker: works with people who are marginalised or have difficulty accessing services, to help them connect with the services they need.
- Community Transport Coordinator: coordinates community transport services.
- Community Development Officer: works with community members to identify their needs and develop programs and services to meet those needs.
- Community Educator: works with community members to raise awareness of issues affecting their lives and to develop skills and knowledge.
- Multicultural Community Liaison Officer: works with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to connect them with services and support.
- Community Volunteer Coordinator: manages volunteers and coordinates volunteer programs.
- Welfare Support Worker: provides support to people who are experiencing difficulties.
- Community Education Officer: delivers programs and services that promote community education and engagement.
- Community Engagement Officer: works with community members to identify their needs and develop programs and services to meet those needs.
- Family Violence Prevention Coordinator: works with families who are experiencing violence, to provide support and assistance.
- Mental Health Support Worker: provides support to people who are experiencing mental health difficulties.
- Community Arts Coordinator: manages community arts programs and projects.
Diploma of Community Services Online - FAQ
What is a diploma of community services?
A diploma of community services is a nationally-recognised qualification that equips eligible learners with the skills and knowledge to work in the community services industry. The diploma covers a broad range of topics, including working with clients, managing projects, creating service programs, managing work health and safety, and providing support services.
What courses are included in the diploma of community services?
The diploma of community services includes a number of core and elective units. Some of the core units you will study include legal and ethical compliance, workplace communication strategies, case management, how to facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes, which includes implementing support processes, and how to evaluate and improve your own professional practice through reflection and ongoing professional development.
Learners will also learn how sociological factors impact clients in different settings and how to identify networking and collaboration needs and develop beneficial formal and informal partnerships to enhance service delivery. These courses are beneficial for people working in a range of community service contexts. Learners will also learn how to promote diversity both internally or during external service delivery and develop programs that meet group-specific needs.
Career outcomes with a diploma of community services
Upon successful completion of the diploma of community services, you will have the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in a range of community services roles. You could work as a case worker, community development worker, project officer, or program coordinator, to name a few. Alternatively, you may also work with clients with mental health issues.
What are the payment options for Diploma of community services?
There are a number of payment options available for learners studying a diploma of community services. The student tuition fees can be paid upfront or in installments. Hader Institute offers several flexible payment plans for diploma students.
What is the diploma of community services duration?
The diploma of community services is a one-year course. However, the duration may vary depending on the study mode and the number of units you choose to take.
Are there any diploma of community services prerequisites?
Yes, there are a few diploma of community services prerequisites. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have completed Year 12 or equivalent. In addition, applicants must have a satisfactory command of the English language. Please note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection into the course.
Is work experience required for the diploma of community services?
Yes, all learners will be required to complete a total of 100 hours of work placement as part of the diploma of community services. Learners will be placed in an organisation relevant to their chosen field of study.
This work placement will give Learners the opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge into practice and gain valuable industry experience.
How is the diploma of community services assessed?
The diploma of community services is assessed through a combination of written assignments, case studies, presentations, and work placement.
What are the diploma of community services graduation requirements?
To graduate from the diploma of community services, Learners must successfully complete all units of study.
What are the diploma of community services units?
The diploma of community services consists of 12 core units and 8 elective units. The core units cover topics such as working with diverse people, providing leadership in the community sector, supporting individuals and families, and managing projects. The elective units allow students to tailor their studies to match their interests and career goals.
Testimonials
Study online from as little as $48, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $72, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $77, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $29, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
Study online from as little as $53, interest free, per week. For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 8362 3113.
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