What are our Social Work Care Clinics?
SW-CARES is embedded social work education and research at the University of Tasmania. We bring together the learning needs of our students and partner organisations to enhance service outcomes that positively impact individuals, their families and the community more broadly.
Our social work students, under professional supervision, provide essential support services to individuals and families in need. These clinics offer a safe, confidential space for community members to access help with mental health, housing, family dynamics, and other social challenges.
Why social work clinics?
- There is considerable evidence-based research to say that student-led clinics are considered a best practice learning environment. Students develop practice skills, formulate psycho-social assessments, explore clinical interventions, interprofessional collaboration and leadership capabilities.
- They help bridge gaps in public services and promote wellbeing across diverse populations.
- Students gain hands-on experience in real-world settings, developing critical skills in empathy, communication, assessment, and intervention.
- This experiential learning complements academic study and prepares students for impactful careers in social work.
- The clinics reflect the university’s commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and inclusive education.
- By investing in these clinics, we invest in healthier communities and more capable, confident graduates.
Our Industry Partnerships are key to us delivering high quality social work education. Industry Partners come from the community, government and private sectors. Our aim is to enhance the workplace and support employers to deliver a more broad and diverse service offering.
What support is available for Professional Social Workers
We care about our new graduates and early career social workers, as they develop their professional identity in the workplace and continue their lifelong learning journey. Our dedicated and skilled team provide professional supervision and education to support social workers professional practice and to ensure they are resilient to best manage what comes their way.
Ther risk of burnout can be high for early career social workers managing complex caseloads in high stress environments. With high quality supervision and educational support, they can thrive and so too can their clients.
Commonwealth Prac Payment
The Commonwealth Prac Payment offers social work students support while they’re undertaking mandatory placements. From July 2025, eligible students will be able to access $319.50 per week (benchmarked to the single Austudy rate) while they’re undertaking a placement.
Should you have any questions about the CPP, please reach out to them at the following email address: commonwealthpracpayment@education.gov.au
What is the Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)? - Ask Us - University of Tasmania, Australia