The Department for Child Protection is seeking passionate and committed social work professionals to join our regional teams across the Far North Far West. Multiple opportunities are available for Social Workers, Senior Social Workers and Senior Practitioners, giving you the chance to contribute to high quality casework, strengthen practice, and support positive outcomes for children, young people and families. Whether you are beginning your career or bringing advanced experience in complex casework and mentoring, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive team focused on building capability and delivering inclusive, evidence-informed services.
Location:
In the Far North and Far West of South Australia, you’ll find vibrant regional centres such as Ceduna, Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and Whyalla. Whether it’s living by the sea, exploring the outback, or enjoying the warmth of regional communities, these locations offer a balance of professional opportunity and personal lifestyle. Working with us in regional SA.
Benefits of working with DCP in the Region:
- An opportunity to collaborate with local government, non-government and community to achieve collective outcomes
- An opportunity to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and young people
- A strong community culture and multidisciplinary team
- The opportunity to work across a wide variety of work settings in regional, rural and remote areas
- Access to professional development and support networks that will foster skills and develop leadership
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: (AHP1: $71,217 – $86,938 p.a.) / (AHP2: $91,785 – $106,330 p.a.) + 12% super for both AHP1 and AHP2
- Exclusive Allowance: Extra 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, making DCP the highest-paying government employer in SA
- Professional Development (PD) – a $1,000 allowance increasing incrementally each year + reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000
- Relocation Assistance & Incentives: Regional incentive payments, government housing, or rental support (for regional/remote roles only)
- 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:
- Deliver child-centred case management and intervention services that support safety and wellbeing.
- Undertake investigations, assessments and safety planning for children, young people and families.
- Prepare clear, evidence-informed reports and recommendations for care planning, reviews and court processes.
- Work with parents, caregivers and extended networks to build skills and maintain safe, stable home environments.
- Collaborate with internal teams, community partners and cultural representatives to strengthen outcomes.
- Apply inclusive and culturally responsive practice in all interactions.
To be successful:
You will bring strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, young people, families and partner agencies. Your understanding of social work frameworks, child development and family systems will support you to contribute to high quality, evidence-informed practice that promotes safety, stability and positive outcomes.
You will demonstrate a commitment to culturally responsive and inclusive practice, along with the capacity to manage competing priorities while maintaining professional standards. Whether you are beginning your social work career or bringing advanced experience in complex casework, mentoring and practice development, you will be supported to apply your strengths, grow your capability and make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and families.
If this aligns with your values and experience, we encourage you to apply.