Our team at the Mount Barker Office is currently seeking a Senior Social Worker or a Senior Case Manager to play a vital role in assisting children and young people in out-of home care to reconnect with their birth families, strengthen relationships and achieve reunification.

In these roles, you will have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to the protection of children by evaluating the risk of abuse, failure to protect and harm to themselves and other people.
• Participate in regular visits and support parents in developing effective parenting skills.
• Provide written and verbal reports which are concise, informative and based on an analysis of evidence gathered.
• Collaborate with various specialists and take advice in devising and implementing clinical intervention with children, young people and their families.
• Provide services that are inclusive of Aboriginal people and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

To be successful in these roles, you will have:

• Knowledge and understanding of children and young people, particularly in regards to developmental stages, vulnerability and resilience.
• Expertise in developing strong working relationships with stakeholders within government, non-government sector and the community.
• Commitment to applying culturally sensitive child protection practices for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and CALD communities.
• Experience in managing workloads, organising and planning work activities whilst taking into account the need to prioritise responsibilities.
• Proven ability to produce clear, concise written and verbal reports based on evidence gathered.

If you are looking for the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of our most vulnerable children, then we encourage you to apply.

Make Your Qualification Go Further:

Same degree, more reward. At DCP, social workers receive the highest pay in the South Australian 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 with DCP than anywhere else.

What are the benefits of working with our department?

At the Department for Child Protection, you will find more than just a job. You will 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 children and young people be safe, strong, and connected. We know a great career is about more than the work you do. It is also about feeling supported, valued and the ability to thrive. At DCP, you will enjoy:

• A collaborative team environment, working alongside people committed to best practice and meaningful impact.
• Flexible work options, tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life.
• Recognition and growth, celebrating achievements and supporting development opportunities across DCP.
• Generous leave, including leave loading to help you rest and recharge.
• Paid parental and partner leave, providing additional paid time to support you and your family.
• Health and fitness perks, including discounted Fitness Passport memberships and free flu vaccinations.
• Wellbeing support, confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

Essential Qualifications:

• AHP (Allied Health Professional) positions are designed for applicants who hold a Social Work qualification and are eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
• PO (Professional Officer) positions are open to applicants with qualifications in Community Services, Human Services, Social Sciences, Health, or other related fields.

AHP Position Benefits:

• Salary for AHP2: $91,785 - $106,330 per annum + 12% Superannuation.
• Additional 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement (highest-paying in SA Government).
• $1,000 professional development allowance, increasing incrementally each year with a reimbursement of expenses up to $1,500 (AHP2 Level).
• Qualifications Allowance available for eligible higher qualifications relevant to the role.

PO Position Benefits:

• Salary for PO2: $88,255 - $97,667 per annum + 12% Superannuation.

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 find out more about either of 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.