How to become a Social Worker in Australia?
Understand salary expectations, qualification requirements, approved study programs, AASW migration assessment, and permanent residency visa options.
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Why Study Social Work in Australia?
Social Work is listed on the MLTSSL with strong employment opportunities in every state and territory. This makes it an excellent pathway for international students seeking permanent residency.
MLTSSL Listed
On Medium & Long-term Strategic Skills List
$93k - $110k
Average salary range across Australia
All States
Job opportunities in every state & territory
High Demand
Growing need in health, community & government
The Demand of Social Workers in Australia
Social Work Programs
Social Work courses are available at a Bachelor or Masters level. Both programs develop critically reflective practitioners equipped with innovative knowledge and skills to work with people individually and collectively for change.
Study Social Work
Choose your pathway and check the academic and language requirements.
Bachelor of Social Work
Entry for those who have completed a minimum of secondary school in their home country.
4 Years Full-time
Four years of full time study including required professional placements.
Academic Requirement
Completed Australian Year 12 or overseas equivalent
Language Requirement
IELTS 7.0 minimum in all bands (or equivalent) - test must be valid within 2 years at time of visa application
Master of Social Work
Specifically designed for graduates holding degrees with some social and behavioural science components.
2 Years Full-time
Two years of full time study with compulsory professional placements.
Academic Requirement
3-year Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with at least 1 year of social sciences
Language Requirement
IELTS 7.0 minimum in all bands (or equivalent) - test must be valid within 2 years at time of visa application
English Test Exemptions
You may be exempt from English testing if:
Citizens of UK, USA, Canada, NZ or Republic of Ireland
5+ years of study in English in Australia, UK, USA, Canada, NZ, South Africa, or Ireland
Enrolled in ELICOS, a course delivered in a language other than English, or a postgraduate research course
After Graduation
Social Worker is listed on the MLTSSL. Your qualification opens doors to diverse career opportunities across Australia.
Career Pathways
Social work
Aged care
Health services
Youth work
Counselling
Key Workplaces
Health Care & Hospitals
Child Protection & Family Services
Disability and NDIS Support
Mental Health Services
Community Services & NGOs
Policy & Government
Education & School Settings
Aged Care & Residential Services
Specialist Areas
Work Locations
Capital Cities
Public hospitals, Health networks, NGOs, Schools
Regional Centres
Regional hospitals, Community health, NDIS coordination
Remote / Rural
Government programs, Indigenous support, Telehealth
Working Requirements
Professional recognition
Graduates will be eligible for membership to the AASW and to practice as professional social workers. Membership to the AASW enables you to apply to become a mental health accredited practitioner, which attracts a Medicare rebate for private practitioners.
Ready to Start?
Ready to start your career in social work? Explore accredited programs today.
General Skilled Migration
As a qualified social worker, you have multiple pathways to permanent residency in Australia.
Skilled Independent Visa
Not sponsored by employer, it’s a visa for skilled workers that’s points-based
Recommended if you:
- Have high points scoring
- Strong AASW assessment
- Are not state-focused
Skilled Nominated Visa
- Are seeking state nomination
- Aim for +5 points
- Are not seeking employer sponsorship
- Are looking for a viable PR pathway
Skilled Work Regional
- Have a lower points scoring
- Are looking for high demand jobs in regional Australia
- Aim for +15 points
- Seek to fill job shortages in regional areas
Employer-sponsored visa (186)
Possible, but not common. It is harder to secure than a trades occupation. This is a company sponsored visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia.
Recommended if you:
- Have worked with the employer for years
- Have experience with Regional NGO / community service
- Have an employer who is willing to sponsor you long term
Book a Consultation
Not sure which visa pathway fits your situation. Get clear answers before you waste time or money. In a one on one consultation, we review your background, points, occupation, and realistic visa options.
Related Resources
Explore more guides and alternative pathways to your Australian career
Related Non trade Courses
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