This role has a moderate level of AI exposure. AI can enhance efficiency for some tasks, but this job still relies on human skills and decision-making.
Explore all careersWelfare Workers assist disadvantaged individuals in accessing social services, conducting assessments, and referring them to appropriate support agencies.
Get qualified to work as a Welfare Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
In Australia, a full time Welfare Worker generally earns $1,590 per week ($82,680 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.
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If you are interested in pursuing a career as a welfare worker, you will find a range of options in the Welfare Worker courses in Ballarat. The region offers a mix of beginner and advanced courses tailored to suit learners with varying levels of experience. Two popular beginner courses available include the Certificate III in Community Services CHC32015 and the Course in Identifying and Responding to Family Violence Risk 22510VIC. These courses provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for those starting their journey in the welfare sector.
For learners with prior experience or qualifications, a variety of advanced Welfare Worker courses in Ballarat are also available. Notable advanced options include the Diploma of Child, Youth and Family Intervention CHC50321 and the Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215, both of which equip students with vital skills for addressing complex social issues. Additional advanced qualifications like the Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42015 and the Diploma of Community Services CHC52015 are also important for career progression in the field.
Several respected training providers offer these welfare worker courses in the local Ballarat area. For instance, New Futures Training provides the Certificate III in Community Services, while Victoria University (VU) offers the Certificate IV in Community Services, ensuring that students receive quality education and training that meet industry standards. By choosing courses delivered by these accredited institutions, learners can be confident in the skills they acquire.
Alongside the educational offerings, a career as a welfare worker can lead to various job roles within the community, including positions such as Youth Worker, Family Support Worker, and Residential Care Worker. These roles not only contribute to personal fulfilment but also play a vital part in supporting individuals and families in need, particularly within the Ballarat region, which continues to grow in its demand for skilled welfare professionals.
Whether you are just beginning your journey or are an experienced professional seeking to advance your skills, the range of Welfare Worker courses in Ballarat offers something for everyone. Aspiring professionals may also explore related fields of study such as Youth Work and Child Welfare, Youth and Family Intervention. With a supportive community and the right training, you can play a crucial role in promoting the well-being of individuals and families across Ballarat.