Study Social Work in Australia

Become a qualified social worker through Australia's accredited programs and make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

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With an Australian
qualification in
Social Work

Australian social work degrees combine theoretical knowledge with extensive practical placements, preparing graduates to support vulnerable individuals and communities. Accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), these programs equip students with skills in case management, advocacy, and policy development. Social work is a growing profession in Australia, with strong employment prospects and potential pathways to permanent residency for international graduates.

Social work qualifications in Australia:

Bachelor of Social Work

Duration:

4 years (full-time)

Entry Requirements:

Year 12 or equivalent

Placements:

1,000 hours minimum

Master of Social Work

Duration:

2 years (full-time)

Entry Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in related field

Placements:

1,000 hours minimum

Specialization Areas

Practice Areas:

Child Protection, Mental Health, Aged Care

Emerging Fields:

Disaster Recovery, Indigenous Services

Professional Accreditation

Body:

Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

Requirements:

Accredited degree + English proficiency

Occupations after this course/Career Outcomes

Graduates of Social Work programs in Australia can pursue various fulfilling careers, including:

Social Worker

Child Protection Worker

Mental Health Social Worker

Family Support Worker

Community Development Worker

Aged Care Social Worker

Disability Services Officer

Youth Worker

Policy and Advocacy Officer

These roles are vital in sectors such as healthcare, education, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

Why study social work in Australia?

Make a real difference

Social workers help individuals and communities overcome challenges, advocating for social justice and improving quality of life. The work is personally rewarding and socially impactful.

Strong employment growth

Australia faces shortages of qualified social workers, particularly in regional areas and specialized fields like child protection and aged care. Employment is projected to grow significantly in coming years.

Competitive salaries

Graduate social workers typically earn $65,000-$80,000, with experienced professionals earning $85,000-$110,000. Senior roles and specialists can earn higher salaries.

Diverse career pathways

Social workers can specialize in areas like mental health, child protection, disability services, or community development. The skills are also transferable to policy, research, and management roles.

International recognition

Australian social work qualifications are highly regarded worldwide, particularly in Commonwealth countries. The AASW has mutual recognition agreements with several international bodies.

Migration opportunities

Social work is on Australia's Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), offering potential pathways to permanent residency for qualified international graduates.

Benefits of Studying this course

Social workers are needed across Australia, ensuring robust job opportunities.

The profession offers good salaries with potential for career growth.

Make a significant positive impact on individuals and communities.

Practical experience is gained through integrated field placements

Australian qualifications are globally recognized, enhancing career prospects worldwide.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Studying Social Work in Australia can be a pathway to permanent residency. Social Workers are on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them eligible for various skilled migration visas. After graduation, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) to stay and work in Australia for up to 36 months. Gaining relevant work experience can support your application for permanent residency through the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program.

Top Universities to study Social Work (based on QS ranking)

University of Melbourne

The Master of Social Work at Melbourne focuses on advanced practice with specializations in health, mental health, and child/family practice. The program includes extensive field education placements and research opportunities.

Find out more about studying at the University of Melbourne

University of Sydney

Sydney's social work programs emphasize human rights and social justice, with strong Indigenous and international perspectives. The Bachelor and Master of Social Work both include 1,040 hours of supervised placements.

Find out more about studying at the University of Sydney

University of Queensland

UQ's social work programs focus on community engagement and evidence-based practice. The curriculum includes specialized courses in child protection, mental health, and working with Indigenous communities.

Find out more about studying at the University of Queensland

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