This role has a moderate level of AI exposure. AI can enhance efficiency for some tasks, but this job still relies on human skills and decision-making.
Explore all careersHow do I become a Hospital Social Worker?
Get qualified to work as a Hospital Social Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Hospital Social Worker
Common questions
The average salary for Hospital Social Workers is currently $1,743 per week ($90,636 per annum). Increase your earning potential by undertaking post-graduate studies and becoming an accredited Clinical Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Courses.com.au Team
There are 35,000 Social Workers employed in Australia right now, some of these are Hospital Social Workers. There is a growing demand for compassionate and qualified Social Workers in all parts of Australia and the future employment prospects are excellent.
Courses.com.au Team
You can become a Hospital Social Worker with a Bachelor of Social Work and then joining the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Increase your employability and earning capacity by undertaking professional development training in specialist areas like cancer care, palliative care, and counselling.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
How to start a career in Social Work
18th May 2021
What can you do with a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance?
7th September 2021All hospital social worker courses
Hospital Social Worker careers
Hospital Social Workers are registered professionals who work with hospital and daycare patients, as well as their families and carers. They help patients navigate the physical, financial, and psychological challenges associated with injury, illness, and disease and may specialise in specific medical units such as oncology, cardiology, or neurology.
As a Hospital Social Worker you could be researching the medicare rebates and healthcare subsidies for an oncology patient, meeting with a heart patient’s family members to discuss lifestyle changes that support their diagnosis, counselling a young teen who was seriously injured after a fall, preparing a longterm patient (who was hospitalised after a car accident) for discharge, or discussing the cultural needs of a non-English speaking patient with nursing staff.
Social Work is a rewarding career path and to succeed in a hospital environment you’ll need excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with a team of doctors, nursing staff, medical consultants and specialists.
