Department for Child Protection
Job reference: 848179
Location: 5112 - ELIZABETH
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Role Status: Full-time role available until 2 October 2026 (with possibility of extension)
Remuneration: AHP2 ($94,997-$110,052) / PO2 ($91,565-$106,074) plus 12% superannuation

We are seeking a Senior Social Worker or Senior Professional Officer to join our Elizabeth Inner North office as a High Risk Infant Worker. This is an opportunity to undertake meaningful and highly specialised work with some of the most vulnerable infants and families in our community. You will provide expert assessment, intervention and case management for high-risk infants, unborn children and their families, helping to ensure their safety and wellbeing through collaborative work with families, carers and multidisciplinary partners. This rewarding role offers the opportunity to provide professional leadership, build practice capability and contribute to lasting positive outcomes for children and families.

This is a single vacancy offered under a dual classification meaning it may be filled by either a qualified Senior Social Worker (AHP2) or Senior Professional Officer (PO2), depending on the qualification and suitability of the successful applicant.

Essential Qualification:

• AHP (Allied Health Professional) positions require applicants to hold a Social Work qualification and be eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
• PO (Professional Officer) positions require relevant qualifications in Community Services, Social Sciences, Human Services, Health or other related fields.

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).

In this role, you will:

• Conduct specialist assessments of high risk infants and unborn child concerns in line with DCP policies and procedures
• Support Social Workers and Case Managers to build effective partnerships with families that promote infant safety and wellbeing
• Coordinate appropriate services and referrals for high risk and unborn infants, their families and carers
• Use a strengths-based case management approach to reduce adversity and improve outcomes for families
• Provide consultation and training to DCP staff and external professionals, strengthening collaborative partnerships.

About you:

• You have a sound understanding of infant development
• You understand the social, cultural and environmental factors that influence family wellbeing and positive parenting
• You can provide guidance, support and advice to less experienced case workers
• You are skilled in counselling, behavioural change practice and family intervention approaches that support positive outcomes
• You value culturally inclusive practice and seek cultural consultation to support Aboriginal children and families.

Salary:
AHP2: $94,997 – $110,052 p.a. + 12% super  
+4% child protection allowance
+Professional Development Allowance, entitlement to claim reimbursement of eligible professional development expenses 
+Qualification Allowance may apply if you hold an additional qualification relevant to the role.  

PO2: $91,565 – $106,074 p.a. + 12% super  
+additional child protection allowance.

What’s in it for you – Perks That Matter: 
At DCP, these are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• A collaborative team environment, working alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact
• Flexible working options with tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life
• Paid Parental and Partner Leave – additional paid time to support you and your growing family
• Recognition and Growth – we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP
• Salary Packaging – reduce your taxable income with a range of pre-tax benefits
• Health and Fitness Perks – free flu vaccination plus access to more than 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools across Australia through our Fitness Passport program for you and your family
• Wellbeing Support - confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

See our full list of benefits.

About DCP

The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. The department provides support to vulnerable children and young people to be safe, strong and connected.

Special Conditions:

• You must have a current Working With Children Check
• You must have a current Australian driver’s licence (P2 or above) and a willingness to drive
• The incumbent will undertake part of their duties within a South Australian hospital setting as required.

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.

Want to know more?  

Contact Danielle Kershaw – Supervisor for a confidential discussion 

Via tel: (08) 8209 4910 or email: danielle.kershaw@sa.gov.au.

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.

To apply for this role, please click on the apply button to be redirected to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 25/06/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- DCP Job Application Guide.pdf
- Role Description - High Risk Infant Worker DCP Offices - AHP2-PO2.pdf

Flexibility Statement
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.