Head of Social Work

Job no: 501498

Work type: Full time

Location: Hobart, Launceston, Burnie

Categories: Balanced Research/Teaching

The University of Tasmania acknowledges the palawa/pakana and Gadigal/Wangal people as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters of the areas upon which we live and work. We recognise their valuable contributions and deep connection to country and pay respect to Elders past and present.

• Provide strategic leadership in curriculum design, renewal & AASW accreditation
• Foster a culture of inclusivity, support and student-centered learning
• Support integration with interdisciplinary, community-informed research programs

The Opportunity

The Head of Social Work will provide academic and strategic leadership for the Social Work discipline within UTAS Health. This ongoing role focuses on advancing high-quality, practice-informed education across multiple campuses, with a strong emphasis on curriculum development, professional standards, and student experience. In this role, you will have the opportunity to cultivate robust partnerships with industry, government, and community organisations, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for contemporary social work practice and equipped to meet the evolving needs of the profession and our communities. Leading the design and delivery of high-quality, practice-oriented social work education will equip graduates with the skills, values, and knowledge required for ethical, effective, and innovative professional practice across diverse and evolving community contexts and needs.

About the Portfolio

The University of Tasmania is entering a pivotal phase of growth and renewal, guided by its refreshed Strategic Plan. Our School of Social Sciences is committed to creating a better world by exploring today's big questions and supporting the social and economic development of the human race. Our staff and students are curious about society and how it influences the world around us; they're passionate, community-minded people who are great problem solvers and critical thinkers. Our students benefit from our close relationships with government and industry organisations by gaining real-world experiences to complement their theoretical studies. We prepare our students with the skills that employers want, so they can make a global impact.

What's Required

• Academic qualifications and/or experience commensurate with the senior academic level in the Discipline as well as practical or professional background in social work or community development.
• Demonstrated experience in leading, managing and developing teams, including performance management, capability development, and creating inclusive and high-performing work cultures.
• Strong understanding of curriculum design, teaching quality assurance, and student experience enhancement, including the ability for innovative leadership in the design and delivery of a compelling, high-quality and sustainable study offerings.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and pursue new opportunities for Discipline growth and sustainability.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships with industry, government, and community stakeholders to enhance the Discipline's profile and impact.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to build productive relationships across diverse contexts internally and externally.
• Evidence of high level contributions to knowledge and/or practice in Social Work or related fields.

What's on Offer?

This is a full-time position based in Tasmania in either Hobart, Launceston or Burnie. In return for your experience, you'll have access to an array of staff benefits and discounts including:

• 26 Weeks paid parental leave for primary care givers
• 17% Superannuation contribution
• Health and fitness membership options
• Accommodation and Car Hire discounts
• Health Insurance and Banking
• Novated Leasing

Appointment to this role will be at Academic Level E comprising base salary within the range of $205,285 to $209,391 plus 17% superannuation

How to Apply?

If this role is of interest, we look forward to hearing from you. Please provide your up-to-date resume and a cover letter outlining your motivation for the role and how your skills and experience align.

Applications for this role should be made through and will Sunday 2nd November 2025 at 11:55pm

For further information about this position, please contact

Belong - Be You

People are at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is to ensure that our people feel encouraged and supported to bring their whole selves to work. Fostering diversity and inclusion is our key priority, supporting our communities to come together in ways that empower connection, learning, belonging and growth. Celebrating the strengths that diversity brings will enable us to achieve our vision and mission. Applications are encouraged from all sectors of the community. Tell us how we can make this job work for you.

As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace, employment history and police checks may be conducted as part of the selection process.

To be eligible for this position, you are required to hold Australian or New Zealand Citizenship, permanent residency or a valid visa that enables you to fulfil the requirements of this role.

Advertised: 13 Oct 2025 Tasmania Daylight Time

Applications close: 02 Nov 2025 Tasmania Daylight Time