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Outreach Workers raise awareness and educate the general public about issues in the community, such as mental health, then build relationships with key organisations and individuals (churches, schools, businesses, local government officials, community leaders) to overcome the problems together. They are employed by government departments, healthcare and community service organisations, charities, and churches.
As an Outreach Worker you could be specialising in drug and alcohol, youth, nutrition, domestic violence, LGBT issues, mental health, homelessness), but your core role will be communicating and building relationships.
There are 16 courses available for people who want to become an Outreach Worker. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
The Diploma of Community Services is suitable for students seeking careers in community services, case management or social housing and delivering services to individuals, groups and communities. The Diploma qualification is divided into three specialisations, covering units of competency in Case Management, Social Housing and Statutory and Forensic Child, Youth and Family Welfare depending on the specialisation selected by the student. Learn more.
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and staying safe at work. To graduate and receive the qualification, each student must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work. The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
A Diploma of Youth Work CHC50413 is perfect for students seeking a career supporting and mentoring young people. Students graduate with the skills and knowledge required to organise youth programs, activities, and events as well as assist youth in crisis or with mental health issues. The Diploma of Youth Work CHC50413 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
A Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42015 is great for students seeking careers as community service workers. Students gain core interpersonal and relationship building skills as well as the knowledge to work legally and ethically in Australia. There is also scope within the qualification to pursue interest areas like mental health, suicide and bereavement support, domestic violence, and addictions. The Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42015 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma. The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
In Australia, a full time Community Outreach Worker generally earns $1,328 per week ($69,056 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 can you expect a higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There are currently 24,400 community outreach workers employed in Australia — they are mainly employed by healthcare, community service, and government organisations.
Source: Australian Government Job Outlook 2020
You could get started as an Outreach Worker with a Certificate IV in Community Services or the Diploma of Community Welfare and Wellbeing. Supporting qualifications in Mental Health, Youth Work, Ageing, Drug and Alcohol may also be helpful. These take 12-18 months to complete. Outreach Workers usually require a national police check and a working with children clearance.
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Here are some potential career pathways within child welfare, youth and family intervention, social work and youth work. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Child Welfare, Youth and Family Intervention
Residential Care Worker
$960 weekly pay
Youth Case Worker
Youth Support Worker
Child Safety Officer
$1,150 weekly pay
Family Counsellor
Family Support Worker
$1,340 weekly pay
Outreach Worker
Welfare Worker
Youth Crisis Counsellor
Youth Justice Officer
Social Work
Community Volunteer
Salary not available
Support Worker
Volunteer Coordinator
Aboriginal Community Care Worker
$1,050 weekly pay
Community Corrections Officer
Community Development Worker
Senior Support Worker
Social Worker
Community Development Manager
$1,920 weekly pay
Youth Work
Youth Worker
$1,250 weekly pay
Learn more about Outreach Worker courses in your area.