Department for Child Protection
Job reference: 709439
Location: WHYALLA
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone
Role Status: Full-time term vacancy available until 4 December 2026.
Remuneration: $91, ,330
Role Details:
Join the Department for Child Protection as a Senior Practitioner based in Whyalla. In this rewarding role, you'll play a key part in enhancing the skills and confidence of social workers, fostering quality practice, and ensuring children and families receive the best possible support. You'll provide expert advice, mentoring, and leadership across complex cases, while driving continual improvement in practice standards. This is an opportunity to use your experience to build capacity, promote learning, and make a meaningful impact in regional South Australia.
Location
Whyalla is a welcoming coastal city located on the Eyre Peninsula, overlooking the beautiful Spencer Gulf. Known for its seaside charm, thriving industry, and easy access to both beaches and the nearby Outback, Whyalla offers an affordable and family-friendly lifestyle. The city has quality schools, modern facilities, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for professionals and families alike. Working with us in regional SA.
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: AHP2: $91,785 – $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
* Exclusive Allowance: Extra 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, making DCP the highest-paying government employer in SA
* Leave Loading: Applicable in line with Enterprise Agreement
* Professional Development: $1,000 allowance (increasing each year) plus reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000 (AHP2 level)
* Additional Qualifications Allowance
* Relocation assistance & incentives – Eligibility government housing, or rental support (regional/remote only).
* Regional assistance – Whyalla offers a 5-year Regional Incentive starting at $882, with annual increases recognising your dedication to supporting the local community.
In this role, you will:
* Provide mentoring, coaching, and professional guidance to social workers.
* Lead and support complex case discussions, reviews, and case planning.
* Drive continuous improvement through audits, quality assurance, and reflective practice.
* Deliver practice development, training, and learning opportunities.
To be successful:
You are an experienced and confident practitioner who brings strong leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Your ability to mentor others, analyse complex cases, and promote evidence-based practice ensures that high standards of care and decision-making are maintained.
You demonstrate a solid understanding of relevant legislation, social work frameworks, and child protection principles. With your communication skills and commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practice, you inspire others to grow and deliver their best.
If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.
Special Conditions:
Essential: A degree level qualification in Social Work which gives eligibility for full membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers and at least 2 years post graduate experience.
To find out more about this role, including the key selection criteria and special conditions, please click on the attached role description.
Enquiries: Kasia Granek-Dennis - Manager - Whyalla on or email:
The department values an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity and strongly encourages applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people from the LGBTQI+ community.
To apply for this role, please click the 'apply' button to be re-directed to the DCP Career Portal.
Applications close: 25/11/2025 11:00 PM