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Welfare Workers help marginalised, isolated and disadvantaged people access social welfare services and community support. Your daily job involves working one-on-one with clients, liaising with case managers and doing the associated paperwork.
As a Welfare Worker you’ll be interviewing clients and assessing their difficulties, then referring them to the appropriate government agencies and welfare services such as housing, social security, education and healthcare. You could specialise in child welfare, youth services, ageing, disability, or mental health.
There are 12 courses available for people who want to become a Welfare Worker. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
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..
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..
The Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (CHC43215) is an entry level qualification for students wanting to work or volunteer providing services and interventions to clients with alcohol or drug issues. During the course, students complete 17 units with a lot of focus on interpersonal skills, communication and relationship building. Students learn the foundational information, techniques, procedures and practices needed to assess clients with alcohol or other drug issues, provide interventions, as well as review treatment plans. The Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (CHC43215) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
The Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health provides a comprehensive foundation in understanding substance abuse and mental health issues, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to provide effective support and intervention strategies in both domains. This program combines theoretical learning with practical training, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges..
Average duration: 24 months.
In Australia, a full time Welfare 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.
Opportunities for Welfare Workers in Australia are expected to grow strongly over the next 5 years as more than 30,000 jobs open up around the country. Welfare Workers are mainly employed by healthcare and community service organisations.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
To get started as a Welfare Worker you’ll need a VET qualification (or university studies) in social welfare and community service. Entry level qualifications include: Certificate IV in Mental Health, Certificate IV in Youth Work, Certificate IV Drug and Alcohol, Certificate IV in Community Services. These take 12-18 months to complete. Welfare Workers also require a national police check, a current first aid certificate, and working with children clearance.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within child welfare, youth and family intervention 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
Community Worker
$962 weekly pay
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
Humanitarian Aid Worker
$1,250 weekly pay
Outreach Worker
Welfare Worker
Youth Counsellor
Youth Justice Officer
Youth Support Officer
Social Welfare Officer
$1,940 weekly pay
Youth Work
Youth Worker
Learn more about Welfare Worker courses in your area.