Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we have adapted our course delivery to now encompass a combination of remote and flexible delivery methods. This includes easy to navigate online tutorials, video conferencing (classroom simulation) as well as face-to-face practical assessments and work placements - where safe and practical to implement. Therefore, you will require access to the internet and a computer to undertake this course.
Our flexible model allows you to continue to study in a safe, guided and fully supported manner with continued access to all learning, personal and well-being supports.
You will be advised by your facilitator on a case by case basis in relation to practical and work placement assessments, as some flexibility will be required during this challenging time.
Next intake:
Start Date: April 2021
End Date: October 2022
2 Days per week
Classes are limited to 25 students. PLEASE NOTE: This is a very popular course and places are limited.
The total program hours are 1365 delivered over three semesters (18 months). Classes are usually held two days per week, 9 - 4 pm, with a one-hour lunch break and a morning tea break, with an average of 12 face-to-face contact hours per week. Students must undertake placement in an approved workplace of a minimum of 400 hours over two separate 10 week blocks. There is an online component which requires students to complete assessment tasks, read/ view resources each week and participate in online forums. Our Diploma of Community Services is also ACWA (Australian Community Workers Association) Accredited, which requires the completion of 400 hours of practical placement hours within a Community Service setting.
Free TAFE and JobTrainer
You may be entitled to free tuition fees for this course if you meet the eligibility criteria for the State Government’s FREE TAFE for Priority Courses initiative. If you are aged 17-24 or looking for work, you may be eligible for 80% discount on the tuition fee through JobTrainer. Job Trainer is only available till June 2021. It's important to know that you may incur other fees, such as student services fees or materials fees, and you'll need to cover these costs yourself. To find out more, call 13 TAFE (13 8233).
Normally a Skills First student is only entitled to one Free TAFE fee waiver. However, you may be able to enrol even if you have previously used your Free TAFE entitlement in a second Free TAFE course under JobTrainer. You may be able to get an exemption if you don’t meet the upskilling requirement.
General Description_14
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, groups and communities. At this level, workers have specialised skills in community services and work autonomously under broad directions from senior management.
Workers are usually providing direct support to individuals or groups of individuals. Workers may also have responsibility for the supervision of other workers and volunteers and/or case management; program coordination or the development of new business opportunities.
Upon successful completion of the Diploma of Community Services at Bendigo TAFE students may transition, with credits, to the Bachelor program of their choice (Bachelor of Community Services or Bachelor of Human Services).
Practical Placement is a mandatory component of this course. Bendigo TAFE's Placement Support Officer will assist students with their placement needs in approved host organisations. Bendigo TAFE will make efforts to secure an appropriate placement. Due to the current environment and circumstances outside our control placements may be delayed. This may then impact the completion dates for this course and deferment of graduation.
Before you can start your practical placement, you will need to provide the following compulsory requirements:
A valid Working with Children Check (Volunteer)
A satisfactory National Police Check - National Police checks are conducted via fit2work. An account with fit2work will be created using the students name and the Bendigo TAFE issued student email address, once studies in the program have commenced. Further information will be provided once enrolment has been completed.
Your fees are made up of four parts.
Once you have determined the fees applicable to your
situation you will be able to calculate a indicative total fee
for your qualification.
Are you eligible for Government subsidised fees?
Check for your eligibility here
Are you eligible for concession?
Check for your eligibility here
Students eligible for Free TAFE receive the tuition rate
free. Students eligible for JobTrainer pay 20% of the
tuition. Materials, consumables and student services
fees are payable by all students and do not receive a
JobTrainer discount, however concession rates for student
services fees are available for concession card holders,
apprentices, trainees and 100% off campus delivery courses.
Concessions for Diploma and Advanced Diploma course
categories are only available to Aboriginal or Torres
Strait Islanders.