ABOUT SOCIAL WORK
Understand the work, the ethics and the wide-open future of a social work degree.
WHAT IS SOCIAL WORK?
Social work is a university-qualified profession that combines knowledge of psychology, sociology, health, law, policy and community practice. Social workers help people experiencing mental health concerns, family violence, disability, trauma, illness, homelessness, grief and financial hardship.
They provide psychosocial assessment, counselling, advocacy, crisis intervention, case management and support people to access services and resources.
+A university-qualified professional committed to human rights, social justice and inclusion.
+Skilled in assessment, counselling, therapeutic interventions, advocacy and case management.
+Trained to support individuals, families, groups and communities.
+Guided by ethical practice, cultural responsiveness and evidence-informed decisions.
+A collaborative practitioner accountable through standards and supervision.
–A volunteer or informal helper.
–A support worker providing only personal or daily living assistance.
–Someone who makes decisions on behalf of others.
–A professional who practises outside ethical, legal and professional standards.
Social workers empower people to recognise their strengths, make informed choices and achieve greater independence and wellbeing.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY PRACTICE
Social workers are an essential part of multidisciplinary teams. Each profession contributes specialised knowledge to improve health and wellbeing.
| Profession | Primary focus |
|---|---|
| Social Worker | Psychosocial assessment, mental health treatment plans, therapeutic interventions, counselling, advocacy, crisis intervention, safeguarding, case management, discharge planning and navigating systems. |
| Psychologist | Psychological assessment, diagnosis and evidence-based therapy. |
| Occupational Therapist | Functional assessment, rehabilitation and supporting independence. |
| Nurse | Clinical care, health assessment, treatment and medication management. |
| Support Worker | Personal care, daily living and implementing support plans. |
| Physiotherapist | Physical rehabilitation, mobility and movement. |
| Speech Pathologist | Communication, language and swallowing assessment and intervention. |
Social workers contribute a unique perspective by considering how personal circumstances, relationships, culture, environment and access to services influence a person's wellbeing. They work collaboratively across sectors to help people navigate complex systems and achieve positive outcomes.
AREAS OF PRACTICE
Social work is one of the most versatile degrees you can hold. Graduates practise across a wide range of settings and communities.
DEMAND FOR SOCIAL WORKERS
Demand for social workers in Australia is strong and growing. Around 47,400 social workers are currently employed nationally, and this is projected to grow to more than 62,000 by 2035 - over 12,000 new jobs, an estimated 25% growth over the next decade.
Growth is driven by rising need in mental health, aged care, disability and the NDIS, child protection, family violence services and community health.
Social Workers | Jobs and Skills Australia
Employment Projections - Outlook by occupation | Jobs and Skills Australia
ETHICS
Ethics guide social workers to respect the dignity and worth of every person, promote social justice and human rights, work in culturally safe ways, build trusting relationships and make ethical decisions in complex situations.
Throughout your studies, you will explore real-world ethical dilemmas and develop the critical thinking needed to balance competing rights, needs and interests.
Explore the AASW Code of Ethics“Ethics is not simply a subject you study. It is a commitment you carry throughout your career.
THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL WORK
Social workers will continue to play an important role in mental health and wellbeing, integrated healthcare, disability and NDIS services, digital practice, climate and disaster recovery, rural communities, early intervention, First Nations wellbeing, research and social policy.
Digital innovations can enhance practice, but they cannot replace human connection, professional judgement or trusted relationships.
