Join the Department for Child Protection as a Senior Social Worker or Senior Case Manager in the Inner South Office and step into a role where your experience truly matters. In these positions, you will lead complex child protection work, influence positive change for children and families, and contribute to decisions that shape safer futures. Whether you bring a social work background or senior case management expertise, these roles offer the chance to apply your skills with autonomy, professional trust and strong organisational support in a purpose driven setting. In these roles, you will have the opportunity to: Manage high risk and complex child protection cases with autonomy and judgement. Assess 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 abuse and reassess matters as new information emerges. 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 are the benefits of working with our department? We know a great career is about more than the work you do. It is also about feeling supported, valued, and able to thrive. At DCP, you will enjoy: A collaborative team environment, working alongside people committed to best practice and meaningful impact. Flexible work options, tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life. Recognition and growth, celebrating achievements and supporting development opportunities 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, confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family. Essential Qualifications: 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, Human Services, Social Sciences, Health, or other related fields. AHP Position Benefits: Salary for AHP2: $91,785 - $106,330 per annum 12% superannuation. Additional 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement (highest paying in SA Government). $1,000 professional development allowance, increasing incrementally each year with a reimbursement of expenses up to $1,500 (AHP2 Level). Qualifications Allowance available for eligible higher qualifications relevant to the role. PO Position Benefits: Salary for PO2: $88,255 - $97,667 per annum 12% superannuation. To be successful in these roles: You will be an experienced practitioner capable of managing complex child protection work with confidence, independence and sound professional judgement. You bring a strong understanding of child development, trauma, risk assessment and statutory responsibilities, and apply this knowledge to safeguard children while supporting families to build capacity and achieve stability. You will be skilled in conducting advanced investigations, assessments and interventions, preparing high quality reports, and participating effectively in court processes. Your practice is evidence based, reflective and aligned with policy, legislation and structured decision-making tools, enabling you to adapt to changing information and respond appropriately to risk. You will value collaboration and cultural responsiveness, building strong relationships with colleagues, partner agencies and communities. You demonstrate resilience, professionalism and accountability, and contribute positively to a respectful and inclusive workplace culture. If this sounds like you, then we encourage you to apply.
