Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Diploma of Community Services combines practical applied units with foundation theoretical knowledge to prepare you for work in a range of community and human services settings. Core topics cover case work and client support, inclusive practice, working with diverse and vulnerable populations, safety and risk assessment, and sector ethics and professional standards.

• Case management and client support — intake, assessment, referral and developing support plans.
• Working with diverse clients — culturally safe practice, trauma-informed approaches, and supporting clients with mental health, disability or substance-use issues.
• Legal and ethical frameworks — confidentiality, mandatory reporting, professional boundaries and advocacy.
• Risk assessment and safety planning — identifying and managing client and workplace risk, crisis response basics.
• Community development and service coordination — working with community groups, stakeholders and referral networks.
• Communication and professional skills — counselling basics, record keeping, report writing and interdisciplinary teamwork.
• Practical placement — supervised workplace experience in an approved community services setting to consolidate skills and professional conduct.

Delivery is typically a mix of classroom-based learning, simulated practice and a supervised placement component. Assessment methods include written assignments, role-plays, observed practice and workplace evaluations.

Entry requirements

Entry is designed to be accessible to a range of applicants. Typical requirements include one of the following:

• Completion of secondary education (or equivalent) or
• Recognition of prior learning or relevant work experience in community services or a related sector for mature-age applicants.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English proficiency requirements. Some placements may require background checks, immunisation evidence and other suitability clearances; these are arranged prior to placement and are a condition of graduation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles across not-for-profit, government and private community service organisations. Common positions include:

• Community support worker or case support officer
• Disability support worker or respite care worker
• Youth or family support worker (entry-level)
• Housing and homelessness support worker
• Referral and intake officer in community service agencies

Many graduates use the diploma as a stepping stone to supervisory roles with experience, or to continue into higher study such as a Bachelor-level qualification in human services, social work or related fields to access broader professional pathways.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers industry-focused community services training with an emphasis on practical skills and workplace readiness. The program is delivered through a combination of face-to-face classes at regional campuses and flexible online options to suit working students and those in regional areas.

• Strong links with local community organisations and placement partners to secure meaningful workplace experience.
• Practical learning environments and simulated practice to build applied skills before placement.
• Supportive student services and clear pathways to CQU undergraduate degrees for those wishing to continue to higher study.

Studying this diploma at Central Queensland University is suited to learners who want a practical, regionally aware education that prepares them for immediate work in community services or further study in the human services sector.