Social Worker
Victoria's social work sector
There are approximately 19,300 social workers in Australia, with Victoria's share at approximately 5000.
Victoria is currently offering visa sponsorship for social workers.
Earning potential
According to the Australian Government's Job Search website, average gross weekly wages for a social worker are A$1081.
The salary and benefi ts of social workers employed in publicly funded Victorian health services are generally covered by the award agreement negotiated with the Health Services Union Victoria.
Wages will vary according to your level of skill and qualification. For more information about your wage earning potential, visit some of the specialty jobseeker sites listed below under finding a job.
Licensing and registration
There are no licensing or registration requirements for social workers employed in Victoria.
Employers
Social workers are employed in the health sector. They may work for government departments, hospitals, and community health centres or in private practice as counsellors.
Industry contacts
Professional bodies and industry associations are a good source of information about social workers in Victoria.
The following bodies may be relevant:
- The Australian Association of Social Workers advocates on behalf of its members as well as providing professional development and other resources.
Tip
We strongly advise you not to apply for jobs until your visa to live and work in Australia has been issued. The visa application process can take many months, and employers are unlikely to choose you for a job if you do not know when you will arrive in Australia.
Finding a job
Employment opportunities for qualified social workers are good in most fields with high demand for social workers in regional areas of Victoria. Visit www.health.vic.gov.au/jobs for a list of current social worker vacancies.
To search for Victorian recruiters who specialise in social workers, visit the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association's Member Index.
For information about Victoria’s health workforce visit the Department of Human Services website.
For more general information on Victoria’s job market, including where and how to find jobs, and workplace culture, visit our Working & Employment section.
Migrating to Victoria
To find out about how to migrate to Australia, including information about visa nomination from the Victorian Government, visit our Visas & Immigrating section.
Skill Assessment Information
In order to migrate to Victoria, you will also need to have your skills assessed as part of the application process. For more information, see the Social Worker Assessment Information Sheet.
Victoria
Migration tools
Last updated: 15 July 2009
State Government of Victoria