Join the Department for Child Protection as we recruit multiple Senior Practitioners for our Mount Gambier office. In these rewarding roles, you’ll play a key part in enhancing the skills and confidence of social workers, fostering quality practice, and ensuring children and families receive the best possible support. You’ll provide expert advice, mentoring and leadership across complex cases, while driving continual improvement in practice standards. This is an opportunity to use your experience to build capacity, promote learning and make a meaningful impact in regional South Australia.
Location
Mount Gambier is a welcoming and picturesque regional city known for its unique volcanic landscape, including the famous Blue Lake and lush sinkholes. Set in the heart of the Limestone Coast, it offers affordable living, quality schools, and a relaxed lifestyle supported by strong community connections. With modern facilities, vibrant local culture, and easy access to natural attractions, Mount Gambier is an ideal place for both professionals and families. More info about Mount Gambier.
Make Your Qualification Go Further
Same degree, more reward. At DCP, social workers receive the highest pay in the SA Government, thanks to an exclusive 4% allowance permanently secured in our Enterprise Agreement. Combine that with up to $2,500 annual professional development support, clear pathways for advancement, and the chance to leave a lasting legacy in child protection, and your qualification goes further here than anywhere else.
Why Work with DCP?
At the Department for Child Protection, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll discover a career where your skills are valued, your impact is meaningful, and your rewards are unmatched.
We play a key role in protecting children, young people, and their families in South Australia, providing support to help vulnerable individuals be safe, strong, and connected.
What We Offer
- Employee Wellbeing: Free annual flu vaccination, Employee Assistance Program (confidential counselling for you and your family), and other wellbeing initiatives.
- Career Development: Permanent roles, annual increments, up to $2,500 in professional development support, and clear career pathways.
- Parental & Partner Leave: Paid leave options to support you and your family.
- Recognition: Annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.
- Learning & Development: Strong commitment to ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities.
Income & Benefits
- Salary: AHP2: $91,785 – $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
- Exclusive Allowance: Extra 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, making DCP the highest-paying government employer in SA
- Leave Loading: Applicable in line with Enterprise Agreement
- Professional Development: $1,000 allowance (increasing each year) plus reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000 (AHP2 level)
- Additional Qualifications Allowance
In this role, you will:
- Provide mentoring, coaching, and professional guidance to social workers.
- Lead and support complex case discussions, reviews, and case planning.
- Drive continuous improvement through audits, quality assurance, and reflective practice.
- Deliver practice development, training, and learning opportunities.
To be successful:
You are an experienced and confident practitioner who brings strong leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Your ability to mentor others, analyse complex cases, and promote evidence-based practice ensures that high standards of care and decision-making are maintained.
You demonstrate a solid understanding of relevant legislation, social work frameworks, and child protection principles. With your communication skills and commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practice, you inspire others to grow and deliver their best.
If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.