The Bachelor of Community Welfare is an undergraduate degree that provides students with the theoretical and practical foundations for work in the community welfare and human services sectors. The course equips graduates with skills in case management, community development, counselling, social research, advocacy, and organisational practice, with a particular emphasis on social justice, human rights, and collaboration as the basis for contemporary community welfare practice. Students explore the diverse landscape of human need across areas including mental health, child protection, youth work, disability, homelessness, family violence, aged care, alcohol and other drugs, and Indigenous services. The degree is accredited by Community Work Australia (formerly ACWA), ensuring graduates meet national professional standards upon graduation and are eligible for professional membership.

The Bachelor of Community Welfare is designed for people who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. It suits school leavers seeking a purposeful career, as well as mature-age students and those already working in community settings who wish to formalise and advance their skills. Employers of graduates span both government and non-government organisations, including federal and state government departments, local councils, community health centres, not-for-profit organisations, charities, housing services, disability support providers, mental health agencies, youth justice services, family and domestic violence services, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community organisations. The course typically takes three years to complete full-time and is available on-campus or online at several Australian higher education institutions.

For domestic students, the most common pathway into a Bachelor of Community Welfare or equivalent is the successful completion of Year 12 or an equivalent Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (e.g., HSC, VCE, QCE). Many providers also accept applicants who have completed a Certificate IV or Diploma in Community Services, Youth Work, or a related field, with some institutions offering direct entry into second year for Diploma holders. Mature-age applicants with relevant work and life experience may also be considered through alternative entry pathways, typically involving an interview to assess readiness and suitability for the course. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) are available at most institutions, allowing experienced practitioners to reduce their study load.

For international applicants and those whose previous education was not conducted in English, an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is typically required, with no individual band score below 6.0. Equivalent scores in PTE Academic (56 overall) or other approved English proficiency tests are generally accepted. Prior to commencing field placement, all students — domestic and international — are required to obtain a current National Police Check, a Working with Children Check (or equivalent state-based clearance), and in most cases a valid driver's licence. Some providers may also require evidence of current immunisations and first aid certification. These requirements are mandated at a national level by Community Work Australia and must be met before any supervised placement hours can begin.