How do I become a social worker?
All skill levels
Beginner
Experienced
Recommended
Bachelor of Social Work
Blended, On Campus, Online
4 years
$0 - $100,160
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
+ 11 more
Master of Social Work (Qualifying)
Blended, On Campus, Online
24 months
$0 - $57,776
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
+ 5 more
Bachelor of Social Work (Honours)
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
4 years
$0 - $105,280
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
+ 5 more
Master of Social Work
On Campus, Online
24 months
$0 - $71,280
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Related occupations
Substance Abuse Counsellor
Substance Abuse Counsellors treat addiction patients, developing support plans tailored to individual needs and circumstances while collaborating with their support networks.
Avg yearly income
$83,200
Skill level
Beginner
Intake Worker
An Intake Worker assesses clients at welfare services, conducting evaluations and coordinating care plans while communicating effectively with stakeholders.
Avg yearly income
$89,960
Skill level
Beginner
Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Drug and Alcohol Counsellors assist individuals and families struggling with substance addiction, guiding them through recovery and interventions.
Avg yearly income
$98,800
Skill level
Beginner
Mental Health Advocate
A Mental Health Advocate supports individuals by promoting their rights, accessing services, and navigating mental health systems with empathy and guidance.
Avg yearly income
$65,000
Skill level
Unknown
Addiction Counsellor
An Addiction Counsellor aids individuals with substance and behavioural addictions through therapy, treatment plans, and support in recovery.
Avg yearly income
$92,560
Skill level
Unknown
Common questions
How much do Social Workers earn?
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
Industry expert
What are the job opportunities for Social Workers?
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
Industry expert
How long does it take to become a Social Worker?
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
Industry expert
Further reading
How to get a job in IT
14th November 2024
