Practitioners

Here at the Department of Human Services (DHS), we strive to deliver modern programs, services and policy that strengthen communities and enable South Australians to actively participate in community life. With people at the heart of what we do and a commitment to child safety, ageing well and supporting people with disability, we work to increase inclusion, independence and decision-making, and help our communities when it matters most.

About the Business

Our Safer Family Services team delivers a range of services, including intensive family support and multi-agency responses, to help children stay safely at home with their families and avoid the need for out-of-home care. They also help families with parenting support, workshops and connection to community events and initiatives to improve child safety and wellbeing.

Role Details

The SA Government is reforming the child protection system in South Australia.

The Department of Human Services is leading the implementation of the Child and Family Support System reform, in which Safer Family Services (SFS) plays a key part.

SFS provides help and support to children and their families at risk of harm, neglect and family violence, by deliberately and strongly intervening to disrupt the patterns of intergenerational trauma, and increase the number of children able to be cared for safely in their homes, connected to culture and community.

This is particularly relevant for children and families with multiple and complex needs.

Special Conditions

• National Police Check required.
• Employment-related Screening Check required.
• Some interstate and intrastate travel may be required.
• Must hold a current Australian issued driver's licence (equivalent to minimum class C).
• Must comply with any order, direction, policy or procedure of the Chief Executive or delegate to receive vaccinations Regional Incentive Allowance may apply for eligible applicants.
• Role Status: Term up to14/08/2026.

Essential Qualifications

AHP: An appropriate Social Work qualification from a recognised tertiary institution giving eligibility for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers.

PO: Appropriate tertiary qualification in community services, sociology, criminology, social sciences, human services, health or a related field.

Persons of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, who have the appropriate background and skills but do not hold 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 of Human Services.

Contact Us

Enquiries to Vanessa Kolarz, Email:

Diversity And Inclusion

DHS is committed to making our services and workplaces safe and inclusive for all people and ensuring the full diversity of the communities we serve are represented in our workforce, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability and/or neurodivergence, young people, older people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse people.

We are committed to making workplace adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment experience and supportive work environment. If you require any assistance with our recruitment process, please contact us at and a member of our team will get back to you.

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

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply. We also celebrate the many strengths and skills people with disability and/or neurodivergent people bring to our workplace and acknowledge our role in ensuring a supportive work environment for people with disability and/or neurodivergent people to thrive in.