The Graduate Diploma in Orchestral Studies is a postgraduate qualification offered at the AQF Level 8 standard, designed to develop advanced instrumental performance skills within the context of professional orchestral playing. The course typically runs for one year full-time and is offered through Australian conservatoriums and university schools of music. It provides intensive, specialised training in orchestral repertoire, ensemble playing, audition technique, chamber music, and the performance practices that underpin professional orchestral work across strings, woodwind, brass, and percussion. Students work closely with professional orchestral mentors, participate in conducted ensembles, and undertake public recitals that mirror real-world professional expectations. The qualification may also function as an exit award for students enrolled in a Master of Music (Orchestral Performance) who complete the diploma requirements.

The course is aimed at advanced instrumentalists who hold an undergraduate music degree or equivalent professional experience and who aspire to compete for positions in Australian professional orchestras, chamber ensembles, opera and ballet pit orchestras, or music education roles requiring high-level orchestral expertise. Employers of graduates include the six major Australian symphony orchestras — the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, West Australian Symphony Orchestra, and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra — as well as Opera Australia, the Australian Ballet, state opera and theatre companies, arts organisations, and tertiary education institutions.

Applicants to the Graduate Diploma in Orchestral Studies are typically required to hold an undergraduate degree in music or an equivalent qualification in a cognate discipline recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Some institutions may admit applicants without a formal music degree if they can demonstrate substantial documented professional experience — commonly a minimum of five to six years of relevant performance experience in orchestral or ensemble contexts. International qualifications must be assessed as equivalent to an Australian bachelor-level degree. In exceptional circumstances, institutions may consider applicants whose evidence of experience and demonstrated achievement is deemed sufficient by the relevant Head of School or Dean.

All applicants must complete an audition, which typically forms the central basis for selection. Shortlisted candidates may also be required to attend an interview with academic staff. A supplementary application — including a performance portfolio, artist statement, and evidence of prior repertoire — is often required. Places are commonly allocated based on the spread of instruments across orchestral sections needed by the institution's ensemble program, meaning competition for positions varies by instrument. International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements; a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band below 6.0) is a common standard, though requirements may vary by institution.

In some programs, the graduate diploma is structured as an exit award from a Master of Music (Orchestral Performance), meaning students who discontinue the master's degree but have completed the diploma's requirements may graduate with the diploma. Prospective domestic students experiencing disadvantage may be eligible to apply under special access or Graduate Access schemes offered by some institutions, which may also provide access to financial bursaries and Commonwealth Supported Places where available.