Important Information
Before you continue, please check if this course suits your needs:
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You must be an Australian citizen or resident. We are not CRICOS registered and cannot accept enrolments from International Student Visa holders (Subclass 500 or 600).
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This is an online course with no work placement required. You can start anytime and study at your own pace.
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Government funding is only available if you live in the Perth metro area. If you’re outside this area, you’ll need to pay the full course fee (payment plans are available).
Course Overview
Make a real difference in people’s lives by starting your career in community services. The CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services is the ideal starting point for those looking to enter the sector and support individuals through person-centred services in a variety of community settings.
This nationally accredited qualification is delivered fully online, allowing you to study when and where it suits you. With no exams, simple assessments, and flexible start dates, this course is designed to fit around your life.
Whether you’re passionate about supporting vulnerable individuals, contributing to community programs, or pursuing a meaningful career change, this course gives you the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to take the first step.
Who's It For?
This course is ideal for anyone looking to begin a meaningful career in the community services sector. It’s especially suited to:
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People passionate about helping others and making a positive impact
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Those looking to formalise their experience with a qualification
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Job seekers wanting to enter a growing industry with strong employment prospects
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Individuals with lived experience who want to support others in similar situations
No previous industry experience is required — just a willingness to learn and a genuine interest in supporting your community.
Job Outcomes
Potential career outcomes could include:
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Community Support Worker
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Residential Care Worker
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Neighbourhood Centre Worker
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Welfare Support Worker
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Case Manager
What You'll Learn
By completing this course, you’ll develop practical, job-ready skills to support individuals and communities through person-centred services.
Key areas of learning include:
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Communicating effectively in health and community settings
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Working with diverse people and respecting cultural differences
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Responding to client needs and supporting wellbeing
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Managing personal stress and workplace safety
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Recognising and responding to people in crisis
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Supporting individuals with mental health challenges
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Facilitating individual service planning and delivery
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Building community connections and collaborative partnerships
You’ll graduate confident and prepared to begin meaningful work in a range of community service settings.
Study Method
- OnlineOnline delivery - online course content with the exception of assessments and work placement
- BlendedBlended delivery - both online course content and partial face to face requirements
- In-classIn class delivery - predominately face to face course content conducted at a specific location
- VirtualVirtual Delivery - Live and interactive classroom-style learning conducted completely online
Locations
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
Duration and Study Load
This course is designed to be completed within 12 months from the start date, giving you the flexibility to pace your learning around your lifestyle.
As the course is fully online and self-paced, your weekly study load can vary depending on your availability. Many students find that committing around 8 to 10 hours per week is a manageable pace to stay on track and complete the course within the 12-month timeframe.
You’ll have the freedom to study when it suits you, with no strict class times or due dates for weekly tasks — ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Delivery
This course is delivered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere, at any time.
All learning materials, assessments, and support are accessed through our easy-to-use Learning Management System (LMS). You’ll complete practical, real-world assessments — no exams required — and progress at your own pace.
Throughout the course, you’ll have access to trainer support to help guide you through the content and answer any questions. Whether you’re a first-time student or returning to study after a break, our supportive team is here to help you succeed.
With no fixed start dates, you can begin whenever you’re ready.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal academic prerequisites for this course, making it accessible to learners from all backgrounds.
To enrol, you must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Have access to a computer or laptop with internet connection
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Provide a Unique Student Identifier (USI) — we can help you create one if needed
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Supply valid photo identification
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Meet basic language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) requirements (assessed during enrolment)
No prior experience in community services is required — just a desire to learn and support others.
Course Features
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Fully online and self-paced – Study from anywhere, anytime
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No exams – Practical, straightforward assessments only
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Start anytime – No need to wait for intakes or terms
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Trainer support – Get help when you need it from experienced trainers
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Flexible payment plans – Starting from just $11 per week
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Nationally recognised – Graduate with an accredited qualification
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Pathway to higher qualifications – Continue into Cert IV or Diploma-level studies
Work Placement
There is no work placement required for this course.
All learning and assessments are completed online through our digital learning platform, making it ideal for students seeking maximum flexibility or those balancing other commitments. You can gain your qualification without the need to organise or travel for work-based training.
Recognition of Prior Learning
If you’ve previously worked or volunteered in the community services sector, or completed relevant training, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
RPL is a formal process that assesses your existing knowledge and experience against the course requirements. If successful, it can reduce the amount of study you need to complete — saving you time and money.
To explore RPL, simply speak with our team during the enrolment process. We’ll guide you through the steps and let you know what evidence you’ll need to provide.
Professional Recognition
This course is nationally recognised and accredited under the Australian Qualifications Framework.
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Qualification: CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services
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Registered Training Organisation (RTO): Industry Skills Training – RTO ID 40486
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Delivery Mode: Online
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Accreditation: Nationally recognised training
On successful completion, you will receive a government-recognised certificate that is respected by employers across Australia.
Assessment
This course is designed to make assessment simple and practical — with no exams.
You’ll be assessed through a range of competency-based tasks, including:
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Short answer questions
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Case studies and scenarios
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Workplace-style projects
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Reflection tasks and knowledge checks
All assessments are submitted online through our Learning Management System (LMS), and you’ll receive feedback and support from your trainer along the way. You can complete assessments at your own pace within the 12-month enrolment period.
Materials
To complete this course, you’ll need access to:
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A computer or laptop
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A stable internet connection
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Basic software such as a web browser, PDF reader, and word processor (e.g. Microsoft Word or Google Docs)
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Headphones and microphone (recommended for trainer support sessions)
All learning resources and assessments are provided online via our Learning Management System (LMS). No textbooks or physical materials are required.
Testimonials
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"he Certificate III in Community Services has exceeded my expectations. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in the sector. I highly recommend it to those passionate about making a positive difference in their community, especially those who can draw on their own lived experience."Caroline B.Certificate III in Community Services
Additional Information
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This qualification is recognised Australia-wide under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)
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Start anytime — no fixed intakes or enrolment deadlines
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You’ll receive a Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) upon successful completion
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Our support team is available to help with enrolment, tech setup, and study tips
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Students have access to our online learning platform 24/7
Subjects
Learn how to identify and respond to the needs of clients using a person-centred approach, while maintaining appropriate boundaries and ethical practices.
Develop effective communication skills to work confidently with clients, colleagues, and service providers in community and health settings.
Understand how to interact respectfully with people from diverse cultural backgrounds and promote inclusive, equitable service delivery.
Gain the skills to identify workplace hazards, follow safety procedures, and contribute to a safe environment when supporting clients.
Learn strategies to recognise and manage personal stress, stay resilient, and maintain emotional wellbeing in community services roles.
Explore how to support clients experiencing mental health challenges using appropriate tools, referrals, and communication strategies.
About Industry Skills Training
Why Students study with IST
- Affordable Education with Government Subsidies
Choosing to study with IST unlocks the opportunity to take advantage of valuable government subsidies. This substantial benefit can significantly lower your tuition costs, making our high-quality, industry-focused courses more accessible.
- In Demand Courses for Growing Industries
At IST, we offer courses in line with expanding industries and evolving job market needs. This ensures our students are equipped with skills that are in demand, enhancing employability and career prospects.
Learn from Industry Experienced Trainers
- Our trainers at IST bring a wealth of industry experience to the classroom. This expertise allows us to provide practical, real-world insights alongside course content, enriching your learning experience and preparing you for professional success.
Why Choose IST:
- New classes starting every month (regular intakes)
- Offer in demand qualifications for growing industries
- Inclusive learning environment
- High level of student support provided
- Flexible payment plans available
- Training to help you start or advance your career
- Consistent course progression with our class based training
- Offer nationally accredited qualifications
- Industry experienced trainers
- Government funding available for courses
- Gain increased workplace skills and knowledge
- Convenient campus locations in Malaga, Joondalup & Armadale
Industry Skills Training is a trading name for Australian College of Finance Pty Ltd which is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 40486)
