Community Services & Youth Work

Prepare for a rewarding career in community services, mental health, or youth work, with a qualification from Victoria University Polytechnic.

You'll graduate ready to work in organisations with a high demand for qualified workers, including community organisations, drug and alcohol support agencies, government services, or council facilities. For those already working in the sector, we offer courses that will help you progress into leadership positions.

Why choose VU Polytechnic?

  • Community-focused study

    VU believes in inclusivity, diversity and opportunity. Our work with local organisations benefits the community, and ensures relevant learning and career networks for our students.

  • Support services that work for you

    We offer scholarships, financial advice, counselling, childcare and more to help you succeed in your studies, no matter your background.

  • Innovative, flexible and hands-on learning

    Our multi-award-winning blended-learning model combines eLearning with in-person training and practical applications.

Join an information session

VU Polytechnic is  running a series of information sessions that cover course structure, industry connections, placement opportunities, and pathways to further study.

Community services information sessions.

VU Polytechnic is open for on-campus activity. Our priority is always the safety, health and wellbeing of our students, staff and community.

All community services courses

Next intake date is shown on course pages.

Community services

Youth work

Get a taste of our mental health course

Stress Management Breathing Exercise

Learn how to manage stress and anxiety with simple breathing exercises, guided by Community Services Teacher, Christina Shi.

Transcript for Stress Management Breathing Exercise

Student stories

Changing career

Older man smiling in a community setting
“I believe that community services can help build a better world; or at least help make the world we have more comfortable and inclusive. I learnt that through life experiences, both good and bad.”
- Jason, Diploma of Community Services CHC52015

Jason's story

Free TAFE

Middle-aged woman on a community park bench, smiling at the camera
“As a mature-age student, being able to access a Free TAFE course that offered flexibility to me as a mother, while also educating me on so much about mental health across the community sector, was ideal.”
– Mandy Certificate IV in Mental Health CHC43315

Mandy's story

Practical experience

Middle-aged man with his dog in a suburban community area
“The most valuable things I have gained from my studies and placement is the knowledge, skills and practical experience. I feel I have been well prepared for securing employment in this sector.”
– Anthony, Diploma of Community Services CHC52015

Anthony's story