Why choose social work 

Social work practitioners empower children, individuals, families and communities to overcome challenges. 
They provide support during times of crisis.

Social work is a fulfilling career that requires certain qualities and skills

Many of the skills gained in previous jobs will also enhance participant’s social work practice. A career in child and family services is not without challenges. There will be times when social workers must decide what to do in a situation that has no clear answer.

Becoming a social work practitioner is a great career choice if you are: 

  • Resilient 
  • Compassionate 
  • Empathetic 
  • Dedicated 
  • Open-minded.  

You will have strong communication and interpersonal skills and be able to: 

  • Empower clients 
  • Advocate for social justice 
  • Problem-solve 
  • Handle complex, challenging and confronting situations 
  • Consider the needs of people from differing cultures and backgrounds 
  • Adapt to the changing needs of clients and communities 
  • Learn from feedback 
  • Keep up to date with industry best practices. 

Career satisfaction

Being a social work practitioner can bring a sense of reward and fulfilment from: 

  • Empowering clients to overcome challenges and achieve their goals  
  • Making a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals, families and communities   
  • Collaborating and sharing experiences with a community of practitioners 
  • There are many types of jobs in the children and family sector. To learn more about them, visit the Roles in the child and family services page. 

Professional development and training

The Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare provides professional development and training for the child and family services sector.  

This includes the Outcomes, Practice and Evidence Network (OPEN).  

OPEN fosters sharing practice experience, research and evaluation to achieve better outcomes for children, young people and families.