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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.
There are 33 courses available for people who want to become a Social Worker. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
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 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.
The Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organizations. Learn more.
The Certificate IV in Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a career in the community services sector. You will develop skills in community development, case management, diversity, and ethics. Gain hands-on experience through supervised work placements. Graduates can work in various roles, such as community service worker, case manager, and program coordinator in government and non-government organizations. Learn more.
The Diploma of Youth Work is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a rewarding career working with young people. You will develop skills in youth development, mental health, advocacy, and community engagement. Graduates can work as youth workers in various government and non-government organizations, such as youth centers, schools, and community services. Learn more.
In Australia, a full time social worker generally earns $1,150 per week ($70,200 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.
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
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.
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Here are some potential career pathways within alcohol and other drugs, counselling, social housing and social work. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Alcohol and Other Drugs
Intake Worker
$1,350 weekly pay
Social Worker
$1,150 weekly pay
Substance Abuse Counsellor
Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
$1,652 weekly pay
Counselling
Support Worker
$960 weekly pay
Art Therapist
$1,250 weekly pay
Crisis Support Worker
Family Counsellor
Life Coach
Marriage Counsellor
Mental Health Support Worker
Music Therapist
$1,440 weekly pay
Rehabilitation Counsellor
Relationship Counsellor
Student Counsellor
Youth Counsellor
Career Counsellor
$1,500 weekly pay
Counsellor
$1,450 weekly pay
Crisis Counsellor
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
$1,920 weekly pay
Grief Counsellor
Guidance Counsellor
Mental Health Counsellor
Psychotherapist
Trauma Counsellor
Social Housing
Housing Officer
Social Work
Community Volunteer
Salary not available
Community Worker
$962 weekly pay
Volunteer Coordinator
Aboriginal Community Care Worker
$1,050 weekly pay
Aged Care Social Worker
Caseworker
Community Advocate
Community Arts Worker
$1,183 weekly pay
Community Corrections Officer
Community Development Officer
$1,802 weekly pay
Community Development Worker
Community Outreach Coordinator
$1,616 weekly pay
Community Outreach Officer
Community Support Worker
$1,382 weekly pay
Healthcare Social Worker
Hospital Social Worker
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Indigenous Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Palliative Care Social Worker
Senior Support Worker
Community Development Manager
Learn more about Social Worker courses in your area.