Senior Practitioner

Role Status: Full-time term vacancy available until 23 October 2026

Remuneration: AHP2 $91,785 - 106,330 / PO2 $91,565 - $106,074 plus 12% superannuation

As a Senior Practitioner with the Department for Child Protection in Elizabeth, you will influence practice where it matters most. This is a single vacancy offered under a dual classification, meaning it may be filled by either a qualified Senior Social Worker (AHP2) or Senior Professional Officer (PO2), depending on the qualifications and suitability of the successful applicant.

This is an opportunity to guide, coach and support social workers and case managers working with complex cases involving children and families. Working within a complex team environment, you will collaborate across the workforce and provide guidance to support strong outcomes for infants and families. You will provide expert advice, contribute to professional development and help shape quality practice across the service. If you are passionate about strengthening capability, supporting best practice and making a meaningful impact, this role offers scope to lead by example and drive positive change.

In this role, you will:

1. Guide best practice case management across complex and high-risk matters
2. Consult on legislation, policy and professional practice requirements
3. Support workers to plan and deliver effective interventions
4. Contribute to learning and development initiatives across the service.

To be successful:

You will be an experienced practitioner with strong professional judgement and the ability to support others in complex case management environments. You bring well developed skills in reviewing practice, providing constructive feedback and contributing to the professional growth of social workers and case managers. Your experience enables you to balance accountability with support, always keeping children and young people at the centre of decision making.

You will have sound knowledge of relevant legislation, social work and case management theories, and evidence informed approaches to practice. You are confident providing specialist advice, contributing to court processes and supporting quality assurance activities. Your ability to analyse complex information and develop practical recommendations will be essential.

You will be collaborative, approachable and committed to inclusive practice. You communicate clearly, build strong relationships and contribute positively to a safe and respectful workplace. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.

Essential Qualification:

1. 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).
2. PO (Professional Officer) positions are open to applicants with qualifications in Community Services, Social Sciences, Human Services, Health or other related fields.

Income & Benefits:

AHP Position

1. Salary: AHP2 $91,785 - $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
2. Exclusive Allowance: An additional 4% allowance for child protection social workers, permanently enshrined in the Enterprise Agreement, positioning DCP as one of the highest-paying government employers in South Australia.
3. Professional Development:
   • $1,000 professional development allowance, increasing annually
   • Reimbursement of professional development expenses up to $1,500 (AHP2 level)

Additional Allowances:

Qualifications Allowance: Available for eligible higher qualifications relevant to the role.

PO Position

1. Salary: PO2 $91,565 - $106,074 p.a. + 12% super
2. Child Protection Allowance: Professional Officers working in child protection receive a dedicated allowance paid fortnightly, with incremental increases aligned to the Enterprise Agreement. This allowance reflects the specialist nature of child protection work and recognises the professional expertise Professional Officers bring to supporting children and young people.

Why You'll Love It Here - DCP Benefits That Matter:

We know a great career is about more than the work you do, it's also about feeling supported, valued, and able to thrive. At DCP, you'll enjoy:

1. A collaborative team environment - work alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact
2. Flexible work options - tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life
3. Recognition and growth - we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP
4. Generous leave - including leave loading to help you rest and recharge
5. Paid parental and partner leave - additional paid time to support you and your growing family when it matters most
6. Health and fitness perks - discounted Fitness Passport memberships and free flu vaccinations
7. Wellbeing support - confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

Special Conditions:

Persons of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, who have the appropriate background and skills but do not have the essential qualification, may apply for and be engaged/assigned to the role of Social Worker and will be entitled to apply for any Allied Health Professional roles requiring a qualification in Social Work within the Department for Child Protection (DCP).

For a successful application you will need to respond to all points listed under the your capabilities section of the attached role description. Please also note any special conditions that may be listed. Please click on the 'apply' button to find out more.

Enquiries: Jessica Stephen - Supervisor on (08) 8209 4910 or email: [email protected].

Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those from culturally diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported.

To apply for this role, please click on the apply button to be redirected to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 21 April 2026, 11:00 PM