Department for Child Protection
Job reference: 842465
Location: 5343 - BERRI
Job status: Ongoing
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Role Status: Full-time ongoing vacancy available
Remuneration: AHP2 $91,785 - 106,330 / PO2 $91,565 - $106,074 plus 12% superannuation

We are seeking to appoint a Senior Social Worker or Senior Case Manager to join our team in the Berri office. 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 position offers the opportunity to lead complex child protection work, influence positive change for children and families and contribute to decisions that shape safer futures. Whether you bring a social work background or senior case management expertise, this role offers the chance to apply your skills with autonomy, professional trust and strong organisational support in a purpose driven setting.

Location:
Living and working in Berri offers the opportunity to be part of a vibrant Riverland community surrounded by the natural beauty of the Murray River. Known for its relaxed lifestyle, Berri provides access to riverfront parks, water activities, local sporting clubs and community events, all set within a welcoming regional town. Working here means joining a supportive, collaborative team while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across the Riverland region. To find out more about working in the region, visit working with us in regional South Australia.

In this role, you will:

• Use a solutions-based approach to case management
• Conduct complex investigations in a child-centred manner, with a focus on safety and support
• Assess risk, protective factors and family capacity using evidence informed practice
• Support children in care and assist families toward reunification where appropriate
• Respond to notifications of abuse and reassess matters as new information emerges.

To be successful:

You will be an experienced practitioner capable of managing complex child protection work with confidence, independence and sound professional judgement. You bring a strong understanding of child development, trauma and cultural awareness, and apply this knowledge to safeguard children while supporting families to build capacity and achieve stability.

You will be skilled in conducting investigations, assessments and interventions, preparing high quality reports, and participating effectively in court processes. Your practice is evidence based, reflective and aligned with policy, legislation and structured decision-making tools, enabling you to adapt to changing information and respond appropriately to risk.

You will value collaboration, building strong relationships with colleagues, partner agencies and communities. You demonstrate resilience, professionalism and accountability, and contribute positively to a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.

Essential Qualification:

• 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).
• 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
• Salary: AHP2 $91,785 – $106,330 p.a. + 12% super
• 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.
• Professional Development:
  o   $1,000 professional development allowance, increasing annually
  o   Reimbursement of professional development expenses up to $1,500 (AHP2 level)

Additional Allowances:

• A 5-year regional financial incentive is payable to AHP staff in Berri.
• A Qualification Allowance may be applicable if you hold an additional relevant qualification.

PO Position

• Salary: PO2 $91,565 – $106,074 p.a. + 12% super
• 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:

• A collaborative team environment – work alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact
• Flexible work options – tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life
• Recognition and growth – we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP
• Generous leave – including leave loading to help you rest and recharge
• Paid parental and partner leave – additional paid time to support you and your growing family when it matters most
• Health and fitness perks – discounted Fitness Passport memberships and free flu vaccinations
• 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.

Enquiries: Shannon Rowson – Supervisor on (08) 8595 2400 or email: shannon.rowson@sa.gov.au.

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: 07/05/2026 11:00 PM

Attachments:
- DCP Job Application Guide.pdf
- Role Description - Senior Child Protection Case Manager - PO2.pdf
- Role Description - Senior Social Worker DCP Offices & Call Centre - AHP2.pdf

Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.