CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services
About the Course
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services equips students with specialised skills and knowledge to excel in community services roles. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to manage, coordinate, and deliver person-centred services that improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
At this level, graduates develop the autonomy to work under broad directions from senior management, providing direct support to clients while often supervising teams, coordinating programs, or exploring new business opportunities. Whether through case management, social housing support, or general community care, this course offers practical, industry-aligned skills to make a meaningful impact.
Job Roles
Graduates of this course are prepared for a variety of roles, including but not limited to:
- Community Care Manager
- Coordinator of Volunteer Work
- Team Leader
- Care Team Leader
- Family Services Coordinator
- Support Facilitator (Community Services)
- Community Housing Resources Worker
- For further details, visit the MySkills website.
Entry Requirements
While there are no formal prerequisites, all candidates must demonstrate their capacity to undertake this AQF Level 5 course. Specific requirements are outlined below:
For International Students:
- Successful completion of Year 12 or an equivalent qualification with a minimum 55% pass in English.
- Demonstrated English language proficiency, either through:
- An IELTS score of 5.0 (or equivalent), or
- A Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) test assessed by META COLLEGE.
- Basic computer literacy, including skills in word processing, internet use, and navigating online platforms.
For Domestic Candidates:
- Successful completion of Year 10 (or equivalent) or mature-aged entry.
- Completion of a Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) Indicator Test at the required ACSF level.
- Moderate computer literacy to undertake assessments and use workplace technology effectively.
Additional Notes for All Students:
- Prior experience in fields like business, leadership, or community services is not mandatory but may provide a strong foundation for this qualification.
- Candidates with informal caregiving experience or transferable skills such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving will find these attributes advantageous.
- All candidates will complete a suitability discussion during enrolment to ensure appropriate learning pathways and individualised support.
META COLLEGE ensures that all learners are supported, with resources available to address specific needs, including additional tutorials, LLN support, and reasonable adjustments.
Program Duration
This course is designed to be completed within 24 months and includes:
- 80 weeks of tuition, comprising 20 hours of face-to-face instruction per week.
- 200 hours of work placement
- Holiday breaks every 10 weeks, lasting three weeks each.
Total time commitment: 1,140 hours. Candidates who require extra time to complete their studies may apply for an extension of up to six months, subject to approval.
Admission Process
How to Apply:
- Enrol at the META COLLEGE head office, or apply via mail or online.
- Complete a self-assessment form to outline existing skills and identify learning needs.
- Provide your USI (Unique Student Identifier) during enrolment. If you do not have a USI, visit this government website for guidance.
Induction and Orientation:
Before commencing, students will attend an induction session to:
- Verify LLN proficiency.
- Discuss prior learning or experience that may qualify for RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning).
Recognition of Prior Learning
META COLLEGE values prior learning and work experience, offering pathways to Recognition of Prior Learning. Through this process, candidates can have their skills matched to the course requirements, potentially reducing the time required to complete the qualification. RPL assessments ensure your experience is formally acknowledged without compromising the course’s rigorous standards.
Method of Study
This course is delivered primarily through structured face-to-face lessons at our Bankstown campus in Sydney, supported by:
- Comprehensive learner guides and access to virtual workplaces.
- Supplementary study facilities available outside of regular hours.
- Internet access and on-site printing facilities during class.
Students are encouraged to bring their own electronic devices for seamless participation in lessons and assignments.
Course Structure
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services comprises 20 units of competency, which are divided into core and elective units to provide a comprehensive understanding of community services. The course structure is as follows:
| Unit Code | Unit Name | Core/ Elective/ Import | Week | Training (Instruction, Practice and Feedback) (Classroom + Worksite) | Structured Activities (Instruction and Practice) | Assessment (Classroom and Worksite) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSBCMM511 | Communicate with influence | Import 1 | Week 1-4 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCMHS001 | Work with people with mental health issues | Elective 5- E | Week 5-8 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCCCS004 | Assess co-existing needs (Part 1) | Core | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 2 Commences | |||||||
| CHCCCS004 | Assess co-existing needs (Part 2) | Core | Week 1-2 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| CHCDIV001 | Work with diverse people | Core | Week 3-6 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCDIV002 | Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety | Core | Week 7-8 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCDIV002 | Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety | Core | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 3 Commences | |||||||
| BSBPEF401 | Manage personal health and wellbeing | Elective 3- E | Week 1-4 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| HLTWHS003 | Maintain work health and safety | Core | Week 5-8 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCCCS019 | Recognise and respond to crisis situations | Core | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 4 Commences | |||||||
| CHCCCS019 | Recognise and respond to crisis situations | Core | Week 1-2 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| CHCDFV001 | Recognise and respond appropriately to domestic and family violence | Core | Week 3-6 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCPRT025 | Identify and report children and young people at risk | Elective 1- C | Week 7-8 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCPRT025 | Identify and report children and young people at risk | Elective 1- C | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 5 Commences | |||||||
| CHCLEG003 | Manage legal and ethical compliance | Core | Week 1-4 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCMHS007 | Work effectively in trauma informed care | Elective 2- D | Week 5-8 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCDEV005 | Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people in community work and services | Core | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 6 Commences | |||||||
| CHCDEV005 | Analyse impacts of sociological factors on people in community work and services | Core | Week 1-2 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| CHCAOD004 | Assess needs of client with alcohol and other drugs issues | Elective 4- E | Week 3-6 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCYTH013 | Engage respectfully with young people | Elective 6- E | Week 7-8 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCYTH013 | Engage respectfully with young people | Elective 6- E | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 7 Commences | |||||||
| CHCCCS007 | Develop and implement service programs | Core | Week 1-4 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCCSM013 | Facilitate and review case management | Core | Week 5-8 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| BSBCRT511 | Develop critical thinking in others | Import 2 | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| No break- Term 8 Commences | |||||||
| BSBCRT511 | Develop critical thinking in others | Import 2 | Week 1-2 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| CHCMGT005 | Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes | Core | Week 3-6 | 40 | 20 | 20 | 80 |
| CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice | Core | Week 7-8 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| 3 Weeks Break- Course Progression Reviews undertaken, make up classes as required | |||||||
| CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice | Core | Week 9-10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 |
| Total | 800 hours | 400 hours | 400 hours | 1600 | |||
Resources and Facilities
Students will receive access to the following resources and facilities to support their learning experience:
- Comprehensive learner guides developed by eSkilled.
- Access to a virtual workplace for downloading policies, procedures, and other relevant documents.
- Reference materials from bookboon.com to complement coursework.
- On-site internet access and printing facilities during face-to-face sessions.
- Students are required to bring their own laptops or tablets and have internet access for off-campus study.
The META COLLEGE campus, located at Ground Level, Suite 3, 398 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200 Australia, provides a modern and accessible learning environment.
Assessment Strategy
Assessments in this course are competency-based, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Key assessment features include:
- Written tasks such as reports and reflections.
- Practical tasks, including simulations and workplace demonstrations.
- Regular feedback from trainers to guide progress and support competency development.
Assessments are reviewed within 10 working days of submission, with opportunities for resubmission where necessary. Students not achieving satisfactory results will receive additional coaching or tutoring to help them meet the required standards.
Student Support
META COLLEGE is committed to supporting every student throughout their learning journey. Support services include:
- Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support to enhance foundational skills.
- Assistive technology and additional tutorials, as needed.
- Guidance in using digital tools for online delivery components.
If students require support beyond the college’s capacity (e.g., specialist language or physical support), META COLLEGE will refer them to an appropriate third-party provider. Limitations to support will be disclosed during enrolment.
Tuition Fees and Payment Plan
The total course fee is AUD $12,000, which includes:
- Enrolment Fee: $150 (non-refundable)
- Student Resources: $350
- Tuition Fees: $11,500
Payment Schedule
- Initial Payment: $1,000 upon enrolment, covering the enrolment fee, resources, and a portion of tuition.
- Subsequent Payments: $1,000 per month for 11 months, payable at the end of each month.
For any financial concerns, students are encouraged to contact the college for tailored advice and support.
Credit Transfer and RPL
Students with prior qualifications or relevant work experience may apply for Credit Transfer (CT) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This process ensures their existing competencies are recognised, potentially reducing the time required to complete the course. CT and RPL applications are assessed at the time of enrolment.
Pathways and Career Opportunities
Graduates of this qualification may progress to further studies in business or management at the Diploma or Advanced Diploma levels. Career pathways include:
- Case Manager
- Family Services Coordinator
- Community Housing Officer
- Team Leader in Community Services
- Program Coordinator
These roles span various sectors, including social work, aged care, youth services, and disability support.
Course Completion
Upon successful completion of all 20 units of competency, students will receive a nationally recognised CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services. Certificates will be issued within 30 days of achieving competency in all units.
Students who do not complete the full course but achieve competency in some units will receive a Statement of Attainment for those units.
Additional Information
For further details, including a copy of the Student Handbook, visit the META COLLEGE website or contact us directly at +61 0424 383 898 . Prospective students are encouraged to apply online or visit the college in person.