What roles are available?
Apply once to be considered for:
- Social Worker (AHP1)
- Senior Social Worker (AHP2)
Social Worker / Senior Social Worker
Join the Department for Child Protection (DCP) as a Social Worker or Senior Social Worker within the Guardianship team and use your expertise to lead complex child protection cases. This role gives you the independence to apply your skills, while working closely with families, children, and communities to deliver meaningful change. You’ll play a vital part in safeguarding young people, strengthening family connections, and shaping better outcomes across South Australia.
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 and benefits
- AHP1: $74,230 (4 year degree) – $86,938 p.a. + 12% super
- AHP2: $91,785 – $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
- Exclusive allowance: an extra 4% for social workers in child protection – permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement.
- Professional Development (PD) – a $1,000 allowance increasing incrementally each year + reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000 (AHP2 level)
- Relocation assistance & incentives – Eligibility government housing, or rental support (regional/remote only).
- Regional assistance – 5-year Regional Incentive up to $7,751.92, with annual increases recognising your dedication to supporting the local community.
- Additional Qualifications Allowance
- Support – free counselling and wellbeing services for you and your family.
- Recognition – annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.
In this role, you will:
- Lead complex investigations and assessments focused on child safety and wellbeing
- Deliver tailored interventions that support families and promote positive outcomes
- Respond to child protection notifications and reassess cases as new evidence arises
- Provide high-quality reports and evidence, including presenting in court proceedings
- Build strong, culturally sensitive relationships with families, kin, and community
To be successful:
You are an experienced social worker who thrives on applying your skills independently while working collaboratively with others. You bring confidence in managing complex cases, conducting thorough assessments, and delivering interventions that create meaningful outcomes.
You are a skilled communicator who can prepare clear reports, contribute to court proceedings, and build trust with families, communities, and colleagues. Your culturally sensitive approach ensures that children, including Aboriginal and culturally diverse young people, receive inclusive and effective services.
If you are ready to apply your expertise, strengthen family safety, and make lasting change, we encourage you to apply.