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 careersHow do I become a Palliative Care Social Worker?
Get qualified to work as a Palliative Care Social Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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Browse occupations related to Palliative Care Social Worker
Common questions
The average salary for Palliative Care Social Workers is currently $1,700 per week ($88,400 per annum). Increase your earning potential by undertaking post-graduate studies and becoming an accredited Clinical Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Courses.com.au Team
There are 35,000 Social Workers employed in Australia right now, some of these are Palliative Care Social Workers. There is a growing demand for compassionate and qualified Social Workers in all parts of Australia and the future employment prospects are excellent.
Courses.com.au Team
You can become a Palliative Care Social Worker with a Bachelor of Social Work and then joining the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). You should also undertake post-graduate qualifications and professional development training in death, dying, and grief counselling.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What do social workers do?
11th December 2019
How to start a career in counselling
7th September 2020Palliative Care Social Worker careers
Palliative Care Social Workers are registered professionals who work with terminally-ill patients and people approaching the end of life. They help their clients (as well as families and carers) navigate the medical system as well as the emotional challenges associated with death and dying.
As a Palliative Care Social Worker you could be helping a patient’s family members understand their father’s medication and pain management needs, connecting a non-English speaking patient with a spiritual leader from their religion, encouraging a terminally-ill patient to participate in social activities, counselling a patient with a chronic illness who is experiencing anxiety and depression, or helping the spouse of a coma patient understand their options.
Palliative Care Social Work is a rewarding career path but can be very stressful. To succeed in this occupation you’ll need excellent communication skills and the willingness to engage in your own self-care and emotional wellbeing.
