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 Social Worker?
Get qualified to work as a Social Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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Common questions
In Australia, a full time social worker generally earns $1,700 per week ($88,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
The social worker industry has been growing strongly and looks set to continue doing so. As of May 2019, there were approximately 40,000 social workers in Australia. That number is expected to grow to more than 50,000 by May 2024. From 2018 to 2023, there is expected to be about 4,600 job openings per year.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Australian Government Job Outlook
Courses.com.au Team
Often the area of social work in which you want to specialise will determine the proper course of study. In general, you need a more advanced qualification like a Certificate IV in Community Services, Certificate IV in Mental Health or Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. Depending on if you're studying online or on campus, full time or part time, these can take around 12 to 18 months to complete. However, some social worker jobs might require a more advanced diploma or masters degree in social work. You might also need to obtain other checks based on your desired role, including a national police check, a working with children check and a first aid certificate.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
How to start a career in Social Work
18th May 2021
How to start a career in counselling
7th September 2020All social worker courses
Social Worker careers
A social worker is somebody who helps people navigate everyday issues brought on by a range of factors, including but not limited to, physical and mental health, income, illness, injustice and changed circumstances such as divorce. They can work with individuals, small groups or entire communities depending on the position and location of the role. Duties can involve everything from meeting with those in need to provide resources and develop programs to helping shape policy with key decision makers and stakeholders.
Social workers must be prepared to help clients work through difficult situations and circumstances, including homelessness, sexual abuse, domestic violence, drug addiction and more. As a social worker, you will be fully equipped with knowledge of helpful resources, such as pertinent literature, refuge contact information, hotline numbers, applicable government aid and other places to which those in need can turn for help. Social workers can specialise in certain areas like older clients, children and those who have experienced certain types of hardship.
