Department for Child Protection
Job reference: 843582
Location: 5084 - BLAIR ATHOL
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Role Status: Full-time term vacancy until 27 October 2026
Remuneration: AHP2 ($91,785 - $106,330 per annum) / AHP1 ($71,217 - $86,938 per annum)

Role Details:

We are seeking a Senior Social Worker or Social Worker to join the team in our Blair Athol office. This position offers an opportunity to lead complex child protection work, drive positive outcomes for children and families and contribute to decisions that shape safer futures. This role enables you to apply your skills with autonomy, professional trust and strong organisational support in a purpose driven environment.

This is a single vacancy offered under a dual classification, meaning it may be filled by either a qualified Senior Social Worker or Social Worker depending on the qualifications 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).

In this role, you will:

• Use a solutions-based approach to case management.
• Conduct complex investigations in a child-centred manner, with a focus on safety and support.
• Evaluate risk, protective factors and family capacity using evidence informed practice.
• Support children in care and assist families toward reunification where appropriate.
• Respond to notifications of child abuse and reassess matters as new information emerges.

About You:

• You are capable of managing complex child protection work with confidence, independence and sound professional judgement.
• You have a strong understanding of child development, trauma, cultural awareness, and apply this knowledge to safeguard children.
• You are skilled in conducting investigations, assessments, interventions, preparing high quality reports, and contribute effectively in court processes.
• You work collaboratively, building strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Salary:
Senior Social Worker ($91,785 - $106,330 per annum) + 12% superannuation.

• An additional 4% Child Protection Allowance on top of your annual salary.
• 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.

Social Worker ($71,217 - $86,938 per annum) + 12% superannuation.

• An additional 4% Child Protection Allowance on top of your annual salary.
• 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..

Why You’ll Love It Here - 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.

Enquiries: Mel Rowe – Business Manager on (08) 8269 8301 or email: melanie.rowe2@sa.gov.au

Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, the LGBTQI+ communities, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

To apply for this role, please click the 'apply' button to be re-directed to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 15/05/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- DCP Job Application Guide.pdf
- Role Description - Senior Social Worker DCP Offices & Call Centre - AHP2.pdf
- Role Description - Social Worker DCP Offices - AHP1.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.