Community Development Officer Courses
Community Development Officers create and implement community programs, serving as a vital link between local residents and stakeholders.
AI Exposure
High

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
View all courses
How do I become a Community Development Officer
Get qualified to work as a Community Development Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CHC52025
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL
The CHC52025 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organisations.
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL
Find a provider
CHC50425
Duration
12 months - 17 months
Study mode
Blended, Online
The CHC50425 Diploma of Youth Work is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares students for a rewarding career working with young people. You will develop skills in youth development, mental health, advocacy, and community engagement. Graduates can work as youth workers in various government and non-government organisations, such as youth centers, schools, and community services.
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 17 months
Study mode
Blended, Online
Find a provider
CHC52021
Duration
4 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organisations.
Career opportunities
Duration
4 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Find a provider
HLT46015
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The HLT46015 Certificate IV in Population Health equips workers with the knowledge and skills to manage various population health projects and programs. This qualification focuses on advanced population health theory and practical project management, with electives emphasising community health information sharing and smoking cessation programs.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Find a provider
View all
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Community Development Officer.
Common questions

How much do Community Development Officers earn?
Community Development Officers in Australia can expect an annual salary in the range of $85,000 to $104,000 plus superannuation and benefits. These are generic figures sourced from the latest job postings across Australia.

What are the job opportunities for Community Development Officers?
There are non clear employment figures for Community Development Officers working in Australia right now. They are employed by local government Councils and state government departments as well as non-profits and charities.

How do I become a Community Development Officer?
Launch your career as a Community Development Officer with a VET Diploma of Community Development. This nationally recognised qualification will help you understand the organisational and government structures that enable community development projects — plus teach you how to develop and implement community programs that maximise participation.
If you are seeking a high-end career in this field, with plenty of opportunity for advancement, you should consider the Bachelor of Community Development, Bachelor of Human Services, or Bachelor of Social Science.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Choose a field of study

If you're passionate about creating real change then a community services course is your next big step forward. Browse accredited courses and check your funding eligibility online.
All courses

Nurture your caring side with a career in Aged Care. Career pathways include Personal Carers, Aged Care Workers and Diversional Therapists. Check your eligibility for government funding. Start your career in Aged Care today.
Career opportunities
View all

Make an impact in the community and change lives through the Alcohol and Other Drugs career pathway. Possible job roles include Rehabilitation Counsellor, Substance Abuse Counsellor and Social Worker. Check your eligibility for...
Career opportunities
View all

Case Management courses are ideal for those wanting to give back to the community and facilitate change in a professional setting. Career pathways include Youth Case Worker and Case Manager. Check your eligibility for governmen...
Career opportunities
View all
All courses
More information
Community Development Officers are employed by government organisations and non-profits to develop and deliver community-based programs for the benefit of local residents. They spend a lot of their time out in the community building relationships, so they often become a direct link between community groups, stakeholders, and government.
As a Community Development Officer you could be co-ordinating a wellness information program for senior citizens, collaborating with indigenous elders and leaders to develop a social connection program for young people, presenting a program proposal to Council officials, speaking informally with local residents and listening to their ideas and concerns, or just driving cross-country to attend a citizen’s meeting.
To succeed in this rewarding occupation you’ll need to be highly organised and have outstanding communication skills (especially the ability to listen).
Courses by location