How to Become a Social Worker in Australia

The duties of a social worker in Australia depend on the field, as well as the organization you choose to work for. However, social work basically involves advocacy for the disadvantaged, elimination of social inequalities and working directly with individuals and communities. The Australian Association of Social Workers is the hub for information pertaining to social work in Australia.

Things You Will Need

Bachelor of Social Work degree or Master of Social Work

Step 1

Obtain professional requirements. Enroll for a Bachelor of Social Work degree or Master of Social Work at any of the universities listed on the Australian Association of Social Workers website. Compare the course structures of various universities to help you settle on one that is most appropriate for you.

Step 2

Register for professional membership with AASW. Access the online application from AASW website. Membership is open to students pursuing an AASW approved BSW or MSW as well as professionals who are already holding their BSW or MSW degree. Contact AASW for further details about any other professional requirements to become a social worker.

Step 3

Get course assessment. If you have already completed a course in social work from an institution outside Australia, visit the AASW website for detailed information about eligibility. Locate your country's guidelines, as well as assessment criteria. Find out which training programs meet the eligibility requirements for AASW membership.

Step 4

Work as a volunteer. Carry out an online search for social work organizations in Australia and make applications for volunteer positions or social worker aides. Go to the field with social workers and get firsthand experience in social work. The Horizon Career Center website provides resources on volunteer opportunities and job openings in related organizations within Australia.

Step 5

Get started in social work. Visit websites of organizations dealing with social work and make job applications. Visit AASW website for career tips and information, as well as jobs pages of recruitment agencies for a list of openings. Visit major federal, state and government websites for a list of social work openings. Get referrals from friends, relatives and your contacts for job openings in social work.

Step 6

Visit websites of organizations dealing with social work and make job applications. Visit AASW website for career tips and information, as well as job pages of recruitment agencies for a list of openings. Visit major federal, state and government websites for a list of social work openings. Get referrals from friends, relatives and your contacts for job openings in social work. Array

Tips & Warnings

Look out for vacancy advertisements with job titles such as caseworker, outreach worker, care coordinator, project officer, youth worker, case manager, clinician and team leader as they require social work qualifications.