How to Become a Social Worker in Australia

October 24, 2025

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5 min read

If you’re drawn to helping people, advocating for social justice and creating meaningful change in communities, a career as a social worker could be exactly what you’re looking for.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to become a social worker in Australia — from the qualifications you’ll need, to registration, and the steps that help you launch your career with confidence.

What Does a Social Worker Do?

A social worker is a university-qualified professional who provides counselling, advocacy and support to individuals, families and communities experiencing hardship or life transitions. You might work across mental health, family services, addiction, homelessness, discrimination or structural inequality.

You’ll support clients by connecting them with resources, building coping strategies and collaborating with allied services. Social workers also contribute to systemic change, or example, advocating for policy reform or better access to services.

How to Become a Social Worker in Australia

Here are the key steps you’ll typically need to follow:

1) Get the Right Qualification

The foundational requirement is completing a recognised social work degree. For example, you’ll need to complete either a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or if you already hold a relevant undergraduate degree, a Master of Social Work (Qualifying). UNSW Sites+1

These courses typically include theory, practical field placements and are aligned with the standards set by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). aasw.asn.au+1

If you are not ready to commit yourself to a Bachelor level qualification, we also recommend a Diploma of Community Services.

2) Undertake Practical Placements & Build Skills

Social work degrees include supervised practical placement hours (often 1000+ hours) to ensure you gain real-world experience. ACAP

You’ll also develop essential skills like communication, cultural competence, ethical decision-making and critical thinking. Ozstudies.com

At Hader Institute of Education, our Diploma of Community Services includes 200 hours of practical placement.

3) Apply for Membership with AASW

While social work in Australia is not yet nationally registered under the health practitioner scheme, membership with the AASW is considered the professional standard and many employers expect it. aasw.asn.au+1

4) Continue Developing Professionally

Your learning doesn’t stop once you graduate. Social workers regularly engage in ongoing professional development, supervision and specialisation to maintain high-quality practice. aasw.asn.au

Entry Requirements & Options

You typically need four years of full-time study for the Bachelor of Social Work. UNSW Sites+1
If you already hold a relevant degree, you may complete a two-year Master of Social Work qualifying program. ACAP+1
You’ll also need to meet other checks, such as national police checks and working with children checks, depending on your placement and future role. Pathway Education
If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll need to have your credentials assessed to meet AASW standards. Ozstudies.com

Why Choose Social Work?

It’s a deeply rewarding profession — you can make a real difference in people’s lives.
Strong demand across sectors including mental health, disability, child protection and community services. ACAP+1
Versatile career pathways — work in hospitals, schools, NGOs, government, private practice or advocacy.
Opportunity for ongoing specialisation and growth — from counselling to policy and leadership roles.

Study Options at Hader Institute of Education

At Hader Institute, we offer nationally recognised online courses that can act as stepping stones to a social work career — such as diplomas in community services or mental health which may position you for further study in social work.

If you’re exploring the social work path, these options can help build your foundation with flexible learning that fits your life.