Community Services
Why is Australia the Preferred Destination for International Students Studying Social Work?
Top-Quality Education with Global Recognition
Australia ranks among the top destinations for international students due to its renowned education system and world-class universities consistently highlighted in global rankings.
Progressive Nation Promoting Social Justice
Studying social work in Australia offers more than just academic knowledge—Australia is known for its strong advocacy for social justice and human rights. This progressive environment, along with diverse career opportunities, makes it an attractive destination for students pursuing a social work qualification.
Industry-Aligned and Professionally Supervised Courses
Social work programs in Australia are regularly updated and supervised by professional agencies to maintain relevance and competitiveness, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the job market.
Diploma of Community Services
Empower Communities and Build a Rewarding Career
A Diploma of Community Services equips students with the skills to empower individuals and create positive change within communities. This qualification also serves as a pathway to becoming a Social Worker, which offers PR (Permanent Residency) pathways.
Duration: 2 years
Academic Requirement: Completion of Year 12 or equivalent
English Requirement: Academic IELTS 5.5 (no band less than 5.0) or equivalent*
*Some universities may require a higher or lower score
Visa Requirements
To secure a student visa for Australia, applicants must provide the following:
A valid passport for the duration of study
Offer letter from the selected university or institution
Evidence of sufficient funds*
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Other relevant documents as listed by the Department of Home Affairs
PR Pathway for Social Workers
Social Workers on Australia’s Skilled Migration Lists
As of November 2018, social work graduates can apply for PR (Permanent Residency) through these lists:
Medium to Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Occupations List (RSMSL)
Skills Assessment for PR
Graduates of Bachelor’s or Master’s programs in Social Work must obtain a positive skills assessment from the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), the governing body for social workers, to apply for PR.
-
Social work as a profession is broad and diverse. Social workers work closely with people to advise, support and advocate people with personal and/or social problems. They also help with community and social issues. Social workers are involved in the betterment and well-being of children, youth, families, socially disadvantaged individuals, and affected communities. In the draft definition by Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), the social work profession facilitates social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing.
-
Students may be eligible for credit based on previous studies and experiences, preventing duplication of courses. This reduces course costs, shortens study duration, and allows more focus on practical training.
-
Students can design pathways based on academic achievements. Uniwave help outline these pathways, allowing progression to new courses, including diplomas, degrees, or certificates. International students completing courses can launch their careers through the Temporary Graduate visa, which allows them to gain industry-relevant experience and count it toward Permanent Residency (PR).
