




Australia has a critical shortage of Social Workers If you are a qualified Social Worker aged under 45 then you are eligible to migrate to Australia provided you can score 65 points and have a positive Skills Assessment
How to Migrate to Australia as a Social Worker
Be aged under 45
Score 65 Australian Immigration Points
Have a Positive Skills Assessment from Vetasses
Lodge an Expression of Interest
Receive an Invitation to Apply
Pay the Visa Fees Pass Health and Character Checks
You need to meet the following criteria:
Score 65 Points
Social Workers migrating to Australia need to score at least 65 Immigration points. Points are awarded for age, experience, qualifications, education, English language skills and time spent in Australia
Take this Free Visa Points Calculator for your score
Skills Assessment
Social Workers are required to complete a Skills Assessment through the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
English Language
Good English skills are vital for work, so you may need to take a test like IELTS. UK and USA Passport holders are exempt.
Health and Character
You’ll need to pass health and character checks
Social Worker Skills Assessment for Australia
The Social Workers’ skill assessment authority is AASW.
There are five Criteria that must all be met for a positive assessment for migration and employment purposes:
The qualification must be a specific qualification major in social work
The qualification must be regarded as a professional social work qualification in the country of training.
The learning outcomes of the professional social work qualification is comparable to the learning outcomes that graduates of AASW-accredited social work qualifications must demonstrate
At least 980 hours of field education in at least two placements and with two contrasting practice foci, with a requirement that one placement must be in direct practice.
English language with only IELTS accepted at 70 each band
If you are unable to get the required English level, then you may be assessed as these other occupations:
Community Worker (ANZSCO 411711)
Welfare Center Manager (ANZSCO 134214)
Disabilities Services Officer (ANZSCO 411712)
Family Support Worker (ANZSCO 411713)
Residential Care Officer (ANZSCO 411715)
Youth Worker (ANZSCO 411716)
These alternative occupations are assessed by the Australian Community Workers Association (ACWA), which offers an English language test waiver
However, these alternative occupations are not on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skilled List which means you will have fewer Australian Immigration options.
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What are the eligibility requirements for immigrating to Australia as a Social Worker?
Eligibility requirements include being aged under 45, scoring 65 points on the Australian Immigration Points Score, having the required skills, qualifications, and meeting health and character checks
Which skilled migration visas are suitable for Social Workers in Australia?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a popular choice for Social Workers who want to immigrate to Australia independently without the need for sponsorship by an Australian employer
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is another attractive option for Social Workers seeking to immigrate to Australia Unlike the subclass 189 visa the subclass 190 requires Social Workers to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government
How do I get my Social Worker skills assessed for Australian immigration purposes?
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The Australian assessing authority for Social Workers is Vetassess They are responsible for evaluating your qualifications, experience and skills to ensure they meet Australian standards For Social Workers, the assessment includes a review of your practical experience and any relevant certifications you hold
Can I apply for permanent residency as a Social Worker in Australia?
Yes, the 189 and 190 visa subclass grants Permanent Residency to holders right from the start The PR rights and privileges awarded to you also apply to your spouse / partner and any dependents
What are the processing times for skilled migration visas for Social Workers?
Expect the whole process to take between 7 and 16 months from absolute start of the visa process to the absolute end
Can I include my family members in my immigration application as a Social Worker?
6 Yes! Your immediate family members are included
What are the best places to look for work as a Social Worker in Australia?
The best places to search for Social Worker jobs in Australia include major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth These cities have a great construction and lots of opportunities
Suburban and rural areas are also excellent options for Social Workers migrating to Australia because they have a lower cost of living and a better work life balance Smaller communities may have a demand for skilled Social Workers in residential construction and artisan woodworking
Are there any specific websites or job boards focused on Social Worker jobs in Australia?
Yes, you can use job search websites like Seek (www seek com au) and Indeed (www indeed com au) These platforms list Social Worker positions across Australia
Additionally, as a Migration Consultant LLC client you have access to our dedicated Social Worker recruitment service for new migrants to Australia