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Social Welfare Officer Courses in Sydney

Social Welfare Officers support individuals and families facing challenges like mental health, unemployment, or homelessness through outreach and direct aid.

    • AI Exposure: Medium

      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.

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  • 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.
      • ACT
      • VIC
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • NT
      • SA
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a Social Welfare Officer in Sydney?

Get qualified to work as a Social Welfare Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

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.

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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.

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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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Further reading

What do social workers do?

11th December 2019

How to start a career in Social Work

18th May 2021

7 reasons to start a career in community services

15th June 2018

Social Welfare Officer careers

If you are looking to start or advance your career in the rewarding field of social welfare, there are excellent Social Welfare Officer courses in Sydney available to cater to your educational needs. This vibrant city offers a range of training opportunities through reputable Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that are recognised for their commitment to high-quality education. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced learner, you’ll find suitable courses that align with your career aspirations.

For those who are just starting out, the Recognise and respond to crisis situations CHCCCS019 course provides essential skills to handle challenging scenarios within the community. This beginner course is ideal for individuals without prior experience looking to make a positive impact as a Social Welfare Officer. This foundational course not only prepares students for entry-level positions but also equips them with crucial skills to manage crisis situations effectively.

Experienced learners in Sydney can choose from advanced qualifications, including the esteemed Bachelor of Social Work and the Bachelor of Human Services. These courses are designed to deepen your knowledge and practical skills in social welfare, making you a competitive candidate for various roles within this dynamic field. Both degrees cover essential topics that prepare graduates for impactful careers in social services, community welfare, and more.

As a Social Welfare Officer, your work may intersect with various fields of study. Sydney’s educational landscape allows you to explore related Community Services courses that can further enhance your skillset. You may also wish to delve into specialised subjects such as Youth Work or Child Welfare, Youth and Family Intervention, both of which are integral to a career in social welfare, providing support to vulnerable populations and contributing to community well-being.

In conclusion, pursuing Social Welfare Officer courses in Sydney opens up a world of opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. With a variety of courses tailored for beginners and experienced individuals alike, you can find the right pathway to suit your career goals. Join the vibrant community of social welfare professionals in Sydney and take your first step towards a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others.