SENIOR SOCIAL WORKER / SENIOR CASE MANAGER
Reference 5FCDC84F
External Vacancy – Open to Everyone
Division: Department for Child Protection
Location: Mount Barker
Salary Range: $91,785 - 106,330 / $91,565 - 106,074
Classification: AHP2/PO2
Engagement Type: Term
Closing Date: 04 May 2026 11:00 PM
Role Highlights
Full-term vacancy until 27 November 2026.
Manage complex, high‐risk cases that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, young people and their families.
Be part of a dynamic and inclusive team that is passionate about supporting the growth of children and young people.
This role provides you with the opportunity to conduct investigations and assessments, delivering targeted interventions to ensure safety and positive outcomes for families, children, and young people. This will help promote inclusive practice and contribute to continuous service improvement.
Responsibilities
* Delivering high‐quality, effective and professional case management services that respond to the complex needs of children and young people.
* Supporting families to develop skills and communication strategies that strengthen relationships with their children.
* Developing and delivering excellent service to stakeholders from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
* Identifying any risks to safety, well‐being and development of children and young people, to ensure they are in a protective environment.
* Responding to notifications of children and young people abuse and to outcomes of investigations.
Qualifications and Experience
* Proven ability to clarify situations, act impartially and use influential negotiations to effectively mediate conflict.
* Skilled in delivering culturally responsive child protection practices for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and CALD communities.
* Proven ability to produce clear, concise written and verbal reports based on sound evidence to confidently provide in court.
* Experience responding to complex risks to children's safety and development using culturally appropriate approaches.
* Strong understanding of children and young people, including developmental stages, vulnerability, and resilience.
Eligibility
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, Sociology, Criminology, Justice, Correctional Practice, Social Sciences, Health, Human Services, Mental Health or other related fields.
Exclusive Allowance
* Additional 4% allowance for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, positioning DCP as one of the highest‐paying government employers in South Australia.
Professional Development
* $1,000 professional development allowance, increasing annually.
* Reimbursement of professional development expenses up to $1,500 (AHP2 level).
* A Qualification Allowance may be applicable if you hold an additional relevant qualification.
PO Position Child Protection Allowance
* Professional Officers working in child protection receive a dedicated allowance paid fortnightly, with incremental increases aligned to the Enterprise Agreement.
Benefits
* A collaborative team environment, working alongside people committed to best practice and meaningful impact.
* Flexible work options, with tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life.
* Recognition and growth, with opportunities to develop and progress 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, including confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.
Special Conditions
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).
For a successful application, you will need to respond to all points listed under the your capabilities section of the attached role description. Please also note any special conditions that may be listed.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those from culturally diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported.
Flexible Working Arrangements
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part‐time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
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