Social Welfare Officer Courses
Social Welfare Officers support individuals and families facing challenges like mental health, unemployment, or homelessness through outreach and direct aid.
AI Exposure
High
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Social Welfare Officer
Get qualified to work as a Social Welfare Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Estimated fee
From $37,248
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Social Work provides the skills and knowledge you need to help vulnerable people, advocate for social change, and inspire more just systems and public policy. With this degree you could specialise in mental health, welfare services, homelessness, family support, youth work, drug and alcohol, correctional services.
The program covers: introduction to sociology and human services, Australian social policy, social work for indigenous Australians, social justice in practice, public health a...
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Estimated fee
From $37,248
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
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Estimated fee
From $42,165
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Arts (Aboriginal Studies) offers a comprehensive exploration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and societal structures. It encompasses various academic fields such as history, archaeology, politics, and anthropology. The course fosters cultural awareness, Indigenous knowledge, and social advocacy. It delves into Aboriginal history, languages, contemporary politics, and the effects of governmental policies. The degree equips students with critical thinking skills to...
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Estimated fee
From $42,165
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Estimated fee
From $37,500
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
The Bachelor of Arts (Social Justice) examines socioeconomic disparities, environmental justice, and discrimination based on age, gender, race, and culture, including refugee treatment. This course emphasizes positive change strategies through policy, law, and activism. It scrutinizes measures to eradicate discrimination while promoting societal equality and justice. Students will understand human rights law, policy design, and the significance of civil society and activism in societal transformation. Key...
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Estimated fee
From $37,500
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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The Bachelor of Community Development is a rewarding degree program that prepares you for a career in community services, international aid, and sustainable development. You’ll gain a deep understanding of what connects and binds a community and graduate ready to manage local community projects or even work for international aid organisations.
The degree covers: social policy, community action, international development, indigenous community development, working with community, sustainable communities, g...
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Social Welfare Officer.
Common questions
How much do Social Welfare Officers earn?
Salaries for social welfare officers in Australia range from $1,714 — $1,940 per week ($89,128 — $100,880 annual salary) before tax. Increase your earning capacity by undertaking a full bachelor’s degree in health and community services or social work.
Please note: These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.
What are the job opportunities for Social Welfare Officers?
There are currently 42,000 social welfare officers working in Australia right now and opportunities are expected to grow by more than 21% over the next 3 years. They are employed by government departments, community service organisations, healthcare facilities, charities and non-profits.
How do I become a Social Welfare Officer?
Social Welfare Officers have great communication skills and a good understanding of the prevailing social issues and how they impact people (as well the wider community). To be effective, you’ll also need computing skills and be able to prepare documents and use spreadsheets.
The best way to start your career as a social welfare officer is to focus on an area you find interesting or have a calling to serve — such as mental health, drug and alcohol, family and domestic violence, youth work, disability, or aged care — then complete a Certificate IV, Diploma, or Advanced Diploma in that field.
Alternately, you could enrol in a Bachelor of Social Work or Bachelor of Health and Community Services. All social welfare officers will also benefit from supporting qualifications in counselling, community health, and communication.
Source: Labour Market Insights 2023, Health Education and Training NSW
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If you're passionate about creating real change then a community services course is your next big step forward. Browse accredited courses and check your funding eligibility online.
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Nurture your caring side with a career in Aged Care. Career pathways include Personal Carers, Aged Care Workers and Diversional Therapists. Check your eligibility for government funding. Start your career in Aged Care today.
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Make an impact in the community and change lives through the Alcohol and Other Drugs career pathway. Possible job roles include Rehabilitation Counsellor, Substance Abuse Counsellor and Social Worker. Check your eligibility for...
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Case Management courses are ideal for those wanting to give back to the community and facilitate change in a professional setting. Career pathways include Youth Case Worker and Case Manager. Check your eligibility for governmen...
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More information
Social Welfare Officers support people and families in the community who are struggling with issues like mental health, unemployment, homelessness, isolation, domestic violence, drug and alcohol problems. They usually work one-on-one with clients but are often involved in community outreach programs and other collaborative projects.
As a social welfare officer you could be assessing the needs of a family who is experiencing financial difficulties, referring a client to a drug and alcohol counsellor, or researching social issues and their impacts on your local area. It’s a busy occupation and you’ll definitely be helping a lot of vulnerable people.
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