Social Worker Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Australia for Foreigners

Social work is one of the most meaningful professions in the world — focused on improving lives, supporting mental health, and protecting vulnerable individuals and families. In Australia, social workers play vital roles in schools, hospitals, community programs, and government agencies.

With the country’s increasing attention on mental health services, aged care, and community welfare, the demand for qualified social workers continues to rise every year. For foreign professionals, this opens a clear path to work and even settle in Australia through visa sponsorship programs designed for skilled workers.

This article provides a complete breakdown of social worker jobs with visa sponsorship in Australia, the types of visas available, current job examples, and a full guide on how to apply successfully in 2025.

Why Australia Needs Skilled Social Workers

Australia’s population growth and multicultural diversity have increased the need for professionals who can offer emotional, social, and welfare support to individuals, families, and communities. Social workers help address issues such as:

• Mental health and addiction recovery

• Family counseling and child protection

• Refugee settlement and multicultural integration

• Aged care and disability support services

• Community crisis response and rehabilitation

As Australia expands its national healthcare and social welfare systems, social work has been added to the country’s Skilled Occupation List, meaning it qualifies for skilled migration and employer sponsorship.

Average Salaries for Social Workers in Australia (2025 Estimates)

• Entry-level: AUD $70,000 – $85,000 per year

• Mid-level: AUD $90,000 – $105,000 per year

• Senior or specialized positions: AUD $110,000 – $130,000+ per year

These figures vary depending on location, qualifications, and area of specialization (for example, child protection, mental health, or clinical practice).

Visa Options for Foreign Social Workers in Australia

Australia’s immigration framework provides several visa pathways for foreign professionals in social work. Below are the main options:

1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

• A points-tested visa that allows skilled workers to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.

• Does not require an employer sponsor.

• Applicants must receive an invitation to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

• Requires a skills assessment from the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).

2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

• For skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.

• Offers permanent residency.

• Applicants must work in an occupation on that state’s Skilled Occupation List.

3. Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)

• Permanent visa for workers nominated by an approved Australian employer.

• Applicants usually have a full-time job offer.

• Often used by hospitals, aged care facilities, and government departments hiring overseas social workers.

4. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482)

• Allows employers to hire skilled foreign workers for positions they cannot fill locally.

• Valid for up to four years, with a pathway to permanent residency.

• Many public hospitals, NGOs, and social service organizations use this visa for international hires.

5. Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

• For professionals sponsored by an employer or state government to work in regional Australia.

• Offers a five-year stay with eligibility for permanent residency after three years of regional work.

1. Allied Health Worker – Settlement Services International (SSI), Sydney NSW

Location: Parramatta, Sydney
Salary: AUD $95,000 per year + superannuation
Type: Full-time, permanent

Settlement Services International (SSI) is one of Australia’s largest not-for-profit organizations helping refugees, migrants, and vulnerable groups reintegrate into society.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct interviews and assessments covering medical, psychological, emotional, and social factors.

• Work with a multidisciplinary team to create and implement treatment plans.

• Support individuals transitioning from detention by improving independent living skills.

• Provide crisis support, safety planning, and health referrals.

• Maintain confidential and accurate case records for reporting and compliance.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work accredited by the AASW, or equivalent.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to connect with diverse populations.

• Experience in multicultural, refugee, or justice settings is an advantage.

Benefits:

• Base salary of AUD $95,000 per year plus salary packaging (up to $15,900 tax-free).

• Flexible hybrid work model (home and office).

• Nine-day fortnight work schedule.

• Access to wellness programs and training.

• Visa sponsorship available for eligible international applicants.

2. Forensic Clinician – Healthcare Australia (Sydney NSW)

Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Salary: AUD $78,000 – $90,000 + bonuses + superannuation
Type: Full-time

Healthcare Australia (HCA), a major provider of health workforce solutions, recruits Forensic Clinicians such as psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists to work with NDIS participants and individuals in behavior support programs.

Job Responsibilities:

• Deliver therapy, counseling, and social work services to diverse clients.

• Conduct assessments in home, school, and community settings.

• Recommend assistive technology or home modifications where needed.

• Maintain accurate documentation and functional capacity reports.

• Educate families and caregivers on emotional and behavioral management.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or Occupational Therapy.

• Registration with AHPRA or AASW.

• Valid driver’s license and willingness to obtain NDIS and Police Clearances.

• Experience working with disability services or complex behavioral cases.

Benefits:

• Extensive paid induction and professional training.

• Choose between a company car or mileage reimbursement.

• Access to paid parental leave and flexible scheduling.

• Career progression opportunities within national health networks.

• Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance for qualified international candidates.

3. Social Worker – Department of Health, Hobart TAS

Location: Hobart, Tasmania
Salary: AUD $71,441 – $107,878 + 11.5% superannuation
Type: Full-time

The Department of Health in Tasmania offers a fulfilling opportunity for social workers at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH). This role involves helping patients and families navigate the emotional, financial, and practical challenges that accompany illness or hospitalization.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver and evaluate social work services in accordance with AASW ethical standards.

• Provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and discharge planning.

• Work closely with doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals to ensure holistic patient care.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records.

• Support training and mentorship for new staff or students.

Requirements:

• A tertiary qualification approved by the AASW.

• Full membership or eligibility for AASW membership.

• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

• Must pass background and disciplinary checks.

Benefits:

• Generous annual leave and professional development allowance (up to $1,000 per year).

• Access to salary packaging benefits up to $9,010 in living expenses.

• Opportunities for continuing education and specialized training.

• Supportive team culture within Tasmania’s public health sector.

4. Social Worker Grade 1 – St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne VIC

Location: Kew, Melbourne
Salary: AUD $80,000 – $100,000 per year (depending on experience)
Type: Full-time, permanent

St Vincent’s Hospital is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected healthcare organizations. This Grade 1 Social Worker position is designed for early-career professionals seeking long-term stability in an inpatient hospital environment.

Key Duties:

• Conduct psychosocial assessments and intervention planning.

• Support patients and families with discharge coordination.

• Liaise between hospital teams, external agencies, and carers.

• Document case notes and contribute to research or quality improvement projects.

• Participate in departmental meetings and continuing education.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work (AASW accredited).

• Experience in hospital or rehabilitation settings is desirable.

• Current National Police Check and Working with Children Check.

Benefits:

• A monthly accrued day off (ADO) to support work–life balance.

• Professional growth through mentorship and training programs.

• Access to Fitness Passport, well-being events, and employee counseling.

• Salary packaging and discount offers via the hospital foundation.

• Collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace.

Visa Sponsorship Pathways for Social Workers in Australia (2025)

Understanding how sponsorship works is key to planning your move. Here’s a breakdown of the main visa routes for social work professionals:

1. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482

• For skilled professionals sponsored by an approved Australian employer.

• Valid for up to four years, renewable or convertible to permanent residency.

• Requires job offer, relevant qualifications, and English proficiency.

2. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Subclass 186

• For social workers who have worked in Australia for at least three years under a sponsored role.

• Leads to permanent residency (PR) after employer nomination.

3. Skilled Independent (189) and Skilled Nominated (190) Visas

• For professionals assessed positively by the AASW.

• Based on a points system considering education, age, and experience.

• Allows independent migration or state sponsorship without employer involvement.

4. Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) – Subclass 187

• Designed for positions in regional areas such as Tasmania, South Australia, or Northern Territory.

• Offers permanent residency after two to three years of regional employment.

Eligibility Criteria for Social Worker Sponsorship

To qualify for sponsorship, applicants must:

• Hold a recognized social work qualification (Bachelor’s or Master’s).

• Have a positive skills assessment from the AASW.

• Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS overall score of 7.0 or equivalent).

• Be under 45 years old at the time of application.

• Meet Australian health and character requirements.

Employers typically handle the nomination and LMIA-equivalent process through the Department of Home Affairs, while candidates complete personal visa applications online.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Social Work Jobs with Sponsorship

1. Research Potential Employers

   • Target hospitals, NGOs, correctional facilities, and disability service organizations that hire overseas professionals.

   • Check career pages or platforms like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn Australia.

2. Prepare Your Australian-Style Resume

   • Highlight qualifications, certifications, and international experience.

   • Use clear formatting with professional references and case management examples.

3. Verify AASW Accreditation

   • If you studied outside Australia, apply for a skills assessment from the Australian Association of Social Workers.

4. Apply for Sponsorship Roles

   • Send tailored cover letters emphasizing your passion for community work and cross-cultural skills.

5. Attend Interviews

   • Interviews may occur virtually. Prepare to discuss case management experience and ethical practice.

6. Receive Job Offer and Visa Nomination

   • Once selected, your employer nominates you for sponsorship under the appropriate visa subclass.

7. Submit Visa Application

   • Apply online via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and upload all necessary documents.

8. Await Approval and Relocate

   • After receiving approval, arrange travel, accommodation, and insurance coverage.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Credential Recognition

Foreign degrees must be assessed by the AASW for equivalency. Apply early and provide complete academic records.

2. Language Barriers

Pass the IELTS or OET exams to prove English fluency. Continuous practice can help achieve the required band scores.

3. Cultural Adjustment

Familiarize yourself with Australian professional ethics, social laws, and indigenous awareness training.

4. Visa Processing Delays

Submit complete documentation and maintain communication with your employer and immigration officer.

Conclusion

Working as a social worker in Australia is more than just a career — it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in people’s lives while enjoying professional stability and personal growth.

Through visa sponsorship programs like the TSS (Subclass 482) or Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), foreign social workers can build rewarding futures in Australia’s dynamic healthcare and community service sectors.

From supporting hospital patients in Melbourne, to helping refugees in Sydney, or assisting families in Tasmania, the roles are diverse and meaningful.

If you have compassion, resilience, and the right qualifications, your path to a fulfilling career in Australia’s social service system begins here.