Role Status: Full-time term vacancy available until 13 November 2026
Remuneration: $118,887 - $129,427

Role Details:
Join the Department for Child Protection as a Practice Leader in Out of Home Care based in Adelaide. This senior role is your chance to shape practice standards, influence policy and drive positive change for children and young people who are living in care. You will provide expert guidance, mentor social workers and lead improvements that align with our therapeutic framework. If you are passionate about leading strategy, supporting professional growth and strengthening the OoHC system, this is your opportunity to create lasting impact.

In this role, you will

Lead, mentor and guide OoHC social workers to deliver high quality practice

Provide expert advice and evidence based solutions to leaders and stakeholders

Shape OoHC policy and practice improvements within a therapeutic framework

Promote professional learning and development opportunities across the team

Build strong partnerships with carers, families and community services

To be successful
You are an experienced social work leader who thrives on influencing practice and inspiring others. You bring deep expertise in Out of Home Care, child protection and family services, and you are committed to using evidence based approaches to improve outcomes for children, families and carers.

You are skilled in building strong relationships, mentoring staff and creating a culture of professional growth. With your ability to balance strategy and hands on leadership, you will shape practice policy, guide decision making and leave a lasting impact on the sector.

If you are ready to lead with purpose and passion, we encourage you to apply.

About the Business:
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.

What We Offer:

Employee Assistance Program: confidential and independent counselling for you and your family.

Strong commitment to learning and development.

Paid Parental and Partner Leave.

Free annual flu vaccination for staff.

Leave loading and salary packaging opportunities.

Special Conditions:
Essential: A degree level qualification in Social Work which gives eligibility for full membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers

To find out more about this role, including the key selection criteria and special conditions, please click on the 'apply' button.

Enquiries: Karina Major - Lead Practitioner Therapeutic Residential Care on 0419 746 948 or email: [email protected]

The department values an inclusive workplace that embraces diversity and strongly encourages applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people with disability, and people from the LGBTQI+ community.

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

Applications Close: 3 October 2025 11:00 PM