Join the Department for Child Protection’s Gawler office as we expand our team with dedicated Social Workers, Case Managers, Senior Social Workers and Senior Case Managers on a full-time term basis.

In these roles, you will:

• Lead the most complex child-centred investigations and assessments, focusing on the safety of the child while supporting parents and families to care for their children safely and effectively.
• Prepare clear, concise written and verbal reports based on thorough evidence analysis, and provide testimony as a witness in court when required.
• Respond to child abuse notifications and investigation outcomes, reviewing and reassessing cases as new evidence comes to light, remaining open to changing your view when necessary.
• Work in partnership with families to support the safe return of children to their care, and engage directly with children in care to promote their development, stability and security.

To be successful:

You’ll be motivated and organised, with a solid understanding of the factors contributing to child abuse within the contexts of child development, parenting, family and environment. You confidently apply this knowledge in your decision-making and daily work.

Strong communication skills are essential, as is the ability to build effective networks with key professionals and families.

You also demonstrate culturally sensitive child protection practice, especially with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a meaningful difference to the lives of our most vulnerable children, then we encourage you to apply.

Essential:

AHP: A degree level qualification in Social Work which gives eligibility for full membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers.
PO: Appropriate degree qualification in Community Services, Social Sciences, Human Services, Health or related field.

Persons of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, who have the appropriate background and skills but do not have the essential qualification, may apply for and be engaged/assigned to the role of Social Worker and will be entitled to apply for any Allied Health Professional roles requiring a qualification in Social Work within the Department for Child Protection (DCP).

To be appointed directly to the AHP2/PO2 level, successful candidates must demonstrate increased professional expertise, competence and experience to perform any standard professional task within the discipline. Candidates will have also attained greater specialised knowledge within the discipline, which enables them to provide professional services to client groups in circumstances requiring increasingly complex practice skills.

To find out more about these roles, including the key selection criteria and special conditions, please click on the attached role descriptions.  

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The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. The department provides support to vulnerable children and young people to be safe, strong and connected.

What We Offer:

• Employee Assistance Program: confidential and independent counselling for you and your family.
• Strong commitment to learning and development.
• Paid Parental and Partner Leave.
• Free annual flu vaccination for staff.
• Leave loading and salary packaging opportunities.