Senior Practitioner

Role Status: Full-time ongoing vacancy available.

Remuneration: AHP2 ($94,997 - $110,052 per annum) / PO2 ($91,565 - $106,074 per annum).

Role Details:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Social Worker or Senior Professional Officer to join our team as a Senior Practitioner. Based in Coober Pedy and the APY Lands, this is a unique opportunity to work within a diverse and collaborative team operating on an 8 days on, 6 days off FIFO roster, delivering vital services to children, young people, and families across remote communities.

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.

Essential Qualification:

1. AHP (Allied Health Professional) positions require applicants to hold a Social Work qualification and be eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
2. PO (Professional Officer) positions require relevant qualifications in Community Services, Social Sciences, Human Services, Health or other related fields.

In this role, you will:

1. Strengthen workforce capability by mentoring and supporting Social Workers and Case Managers to deliver high-quality practice.
2. Provide expert practice leadership through consultation, advice, coaching, and training to a diverse range of stakeholders.
3. Drive continuous improvement by promoting best practice and identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery.
4. Develop strong collaborative relationships with government and non-government stakeholders to achieve better outcomes for children and families.
5. Promote best practice in child protection through specialist advice and practice development.

About You:

1. You can develop and maintain strong working relationships with people both within government, non-government sector and community.
2. You have experience in reviewing cases and providing reports which include status updates and recommendations for improvements.
3. You can provide practical advice on professional case management matters to contribute to the professional development of the team.
4. You have extensive knowledge of the Children’s Protection Act, Young Offenders Act and case management theories and methodologies.
5. You can analyse problems, initiate constructive discussion and assess and differentiate between actual and desirable outcomes.

Salary and Benefits:

AHP2 ($94,997 - $110,052 per annum) + 12% superannuation

1. Additional 4% Child Protection Allowance paid alongside your annual salary.
2. Professional Development Allowance, entitlement to claim reimbursement of eligible professional development expenses.
3. Qualification Allowance (may apply if you hold an additional qualification relevant to the role).

PO2 ($91,565 - $106,074 per annum) + 12% superannuation

1. Additional Child Protection Allowance.

Why You'll Love It Here – Perks That Matter:

At DCP, these are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

1. Paid relocation expenses, government employee housing, and other benefits may also be available for some roles based in regional South Australia. To find out more about working in the region, visit working with us in regional South Australia.
2. A collaborative team environment, working alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact.
3. Flexible working options with tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life.
4. Paid Parental and Partner Leave – additional paid time to support you and your growing family.
5. Recognition and Growth – we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP.
6. Salary Packaging – reduce your taxable income with a range of pre-tax benefits.
7. Health and Fitness Perks – free flu vaccination plus access to more than 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools across Australia through our Fitness Passport program for you and your family.
8. Wellbeing Support – confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

See our full list of benefits.

About DCP:

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.

Special Conditions:

1. You must have a current Working With Children Check.
2. You must have a current Australian driver’s licence (P2 or above) and a willingness to drive.
3. You will be required to fly on rotational roster, 8 days on and 6 days off, to APY Lands – Umuwa Base.

For a successful application, you will need to respond to all points listed under the your capabilities section of the role description. Please also note any special conditions that may be listed.

Enquiries: Rick Carrick - Supervisor on 0437 141 344 or email: [email protected]

Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, the LGBTQI+ communities, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

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

Applications Close: 1 July 2026, 11:00pm