COURSE CURRICULUM

The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that equips students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills required to work effectively in the community services sector. To successfully complete this diploma, students must complete a total of 20 units, which include 12 core units and 8 elective units. The core units are designed to build essential competencies such as working with diverse people, developing and implementing service programs, understanding the impact of sociological factors, and promoting cultural safety for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities. Additional core units focus on managing legal and ethical compliance, maintaining workplace health and safety, recognizing and responding to domestic and family violence, facilitating case management, crisis response, assessing co-existing needs, supporting workplace debriefing, and reflecting on professional practice for continuous improvement.The elective units allow learners to tailor their study to specific interests or career goals. These include developing workplace communication strategies, establishing counselling relationships, managing and promoting diversity, working with individuals experiencing mental health issues, facilitating social inclusion for people with disabilities, applying counselling interview techniques, collaborating with care networks and services, and providing advocacy and representation services.Combined, these units ensure graduates are well-equipped to take on diverse roles in the community services field, from direct client support and case management to program coordination and supervisory responsibilities. A mandatory component of the diploma is the completion of at least 200 hours of work placement across two different community service organizations in Australia. This hands-on experience gives students the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings, building their confidence and professional capability. The qualification also requires adherence to relevant legislation, Australian standards, and industry codes of practice. Overall, this diploma provides a solid foundation for a meaningful and impactful career in community services.