
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 careersSocial Welfare Officers support individuals and families facing challenges like mental health, unemployment, or homelessness through outreach and direct aid.
Get qualified to work as a Social Welfare Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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.
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.
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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Are you considering a career as a Social Welfare Officer in the Australian Capital Territory? If so, you’re in luck! There are excellent Social Welfare Officer courses in the Australian Capital Territory that can help you gain the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in this rewarding field. With a strong focus on community support and welfare services, these courses are designed for experienced learners who already have a background in this domain.
Among the top advanced courses you can pursue are the Bachelor of Social Work and the Bachelor of Human Services. Both of these programmes not only equip you with theoretical knowledge but also focus on practical applications that are essential for effective social service delivery in the ACT. By enrolling in one of these courses, you’ll be well-prepared to take on the varied challenges faced by Social Welfare Officers today.
In addition to specific courses, the role of a Social Welfare Officer is interconnected with various fields of study and practical applications. If you're interested in exploring the broader landscape, you might want to look into Community Services courses, which cover essential concepts and practices in the field. These foundational courses will enhance your understanding and skills, making you a more competent social welfare professional.
You may also want to consider the specialised options in this area, such as Youth Work and Child Welfare, Youth and Family Intervention. These courses provide targeted training that prepares you for specific demographics, enabling you to cater to the unique needs of different groups within the community.