Extra 4% allowance for our social workers: highest-paying in SA Government

Annual salary increases & up to $2,500 support for your growth

Employer contribution of 12% towards your superannuation.

Role Details:
Are you ready to put your social work expertise into action where it matters most? The Department for Child Protection is seeking multiple Senior Social Workers to take on complex casework that directly impacts the safety and wellbeing of children across South Australia. These positions are both challenging and rewarding, offering the opportunity to apply your expertise with independence while working collaboratively within a supportive team environment. If you're looking for a career where your work creates lasting positive outcomes for children and families, this is it.

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 We Offer

Employee Wellbeing: Free annual flu vaccination, Employee Assistance Program (confidential counselling for you and your family), and other wellbeing initiatives.

Career Development: Permanent roles, annual increments, up to $2,500 in professional development support, and clear career pathways.

Parental & Partner Leave: Paid leave options to support you and your family.

Recognition: Annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.

Learning & Development: Strong commitment to ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities.

Income & Benefits

Salary: AHP2: $91,785 - $106,330 p.a. + 12% super

Exclusive Allowance: Extra 4% for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, making DCP the highest-paying government employer in SA

Professional Development (PD) - a $1,000 allowance increasing incrementally each year + reimbursement of PD expenses up to $1,000 (AHP2 level)

Additional Qualifications Allowance

Support - free counselling and wellbeing services for you and your family.

Recognition - annual DCP Recognition Awards celebrating staff excellence.

In this role, you will:

Lead complex investigations and assessments focused on child safety and wellbeing

Provide case management and support to children, families, and carers

Work with families to build capacity for safe and positive parenting

Prepare clear, evidence-based reports and present in court when required

To be successful:
You are an experienced social worker who thrives when applying your skills to complex, challenging situations. You bring strong case management expertise, the ability to work independently, and the confidence to make sound decisions that safeguard children.

You communicate clearly and with compassion, preparing high-quality reports and working collaboratively with families, colleagues, and community partners. Your approach is inclusive and culturally respectful, recognising the importance of supporting families from diverse backgrounds.

If you're ready to apply your skills where they matter most and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference, we encourage you to apply.

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: Jenna Balfour - Supervisor on 8177 4400 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: 9 November 2025 11:00 PM