national y! bulletin - aasw

National

Bulletin

Australian Association of Social Workers

Special Membership Edition

NEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS LTD

ISSN 1329-0282 ABN 93 008 576 010

SPECIAL EDITION 2012 : VOLUME 22, ISSUE 1

INSIDE

6 Why do social workers join the AASW? 12 good reasons – and 3 easy steps to join!

10 Supporting and promoting ethical conduct Ethics services at the AASW have been developed to support, inform and engage with social workers, their employers, educators and clients

14 Australian College of Social Work Recognising, acknowledging, rewarding and promoting advanced social work practice

21 Around AASW Branch news and plans for 2012

GIVE

ONE AWAY!

Share your copy with a

colleague or social worker-

to-be to help promote

your profession and

Association

Horizon Career Centre

Social Worker EmployersFind your next social worker appointment or

locum at Horizon – a highly focused and very

popular career website with an average of

3800 visitors per month.

Are you a social worker, looking for locum work? Advertise your capabilities and availability:– only $50 + GST for AASW members– $250 + GST for non-members– advertisement is for one year.

www.horizonemployment.com.au Ph. 1300 731 314

Social Worker EmployersFind your next social worker appointment or

locum at Horizon – a highly focused and very

popular career website with an average of

3800 visitors per month.

Are you a social worker, looking for locum work? Advertise your capabilities and availability:– only $50 + GST for AASW members– $250 + GST for non-members– advertisement is for one year.

NATIONAL BULLETIN 3

NATIONAL BULLETIN CONTENTS

NEWS5 National President’s Report

MEMBERSHIP6 Why do social workers join the AASW?

NEW FRONTIERS FOR SOCIAL WORK8 Achieving Registration for Australian Social Workers8 Better Access to mental health care

EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS10 Supporting and promoting ethical conduct in social work12 Assessing international qualifications and skills13 Providing more opportunities for Members’

professional development

ACSW14 Advancing social work practice through the

Australian College of Social Work15 Some useful questions and answers16 20 questions: The first ACSW Life Fellow, Joe Calleja

COMMUNITY BUILDING & OPPORTUNITIES18 A world of opportunity for the

International Social Work Committee

PURSUING SOCIAL JUSTICE & INCLUSION20 Reshaping the profession in relation to

Indigenous Australians

AROUND AASW21 ACT: Rose gardens, interesting presentations

and networking for ACT members22 NSW: New office opens doors for members23 Nth Qld: Conference highlights the role of social work

in achieving social justice and human rights24 NT: Small branch, big heart25 Qld: Queensland social workers show community

spirit in flood response26 SA: South Australian Branch focus on

professional development for all members27 Tas:Tasmanian Branch working with university

for the future of social work28 Vic: Victorian Branch leads the way with

active special interest groups29 WA: Celebrating the work and contribution

of WA social workers30 Board Governance – Staying on the rails

Contents

CHANGES TO THE NATIONAL BULLETIN

We’ve made some changes to the National Bulletin.

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directed to [email protected]

Contact

AASW National OfficeLevel 4, 33-35 Ainslie Place Canberra City, ACT 2601PO Box 4956, Kingston ACT 2604Phone: 02 6232 3900Fax: 02 6230 4399

AASW National Board Members

National President Karen Healy

National Vice Presidents Vittorio Cintio Christine Craik

Directors Sue Cumming Brian Wooller Glenice Garvie Maria Merle Cindy Smith

NATIONAL BULLETIN4

AASW StaffNATIONAL OFFICE (Canberra)Level 4, 33–35 Ainslie Place Canberra City ACT 2601 PO Box 4956, Kingston ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6232 3900Fax: 02 6230 4399Email: [email protected]: www.aasw.asn.auMembership queriesFreecall: 1800 630 124 Email: [email protected] Badenhorst – Chief Operating Officer E: [email protected] Storer – Executive Assistant E: [email protected] North – Executive Support Officer E: [email protected] Brand – Executive Officer Australian College of Social Work E: [email protected] Hart – Business Manager E: [email protected] Tay – Senior Accountant E: [email protected] Mulligan – Accounts E: [email protected] Chapman – Finance Admin Officer E: [email protected] Ridwan – Marketing Project Officer [email protected] Grech – Membership Officer E: [email protected] Brown – Admin Officer Membership/Education E: [email protected] Cottell – Office Manager E: [email protected] Crossley – Education Officer E: [email protected] Rowland – Admin Officer Horizon Career Centre E: [email protected] T: 1300 73 13 14

Communications and Advocacy E: [email protected]

NATIONAL OFFICE – (Melbourne)Level 4, 224–236 Queen Street MELBOURNE VIC 3000 PO Box 13087, Law Courts, VIC 8010 Fax: 03 9642 2971Kym Daly Senior Manager – Ethics & Standards E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2967/0431 214 409Fran Hardcastle – National Ethics & Practice Standards Officer E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2307Bron Lewis – Ethics Administration Officer E: [email protected] Heffernan International Qualifications Assessment Professional Officer E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2712Mia Trujillo – International Qualifications Assessment Admin Officer E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2712Elizabeth Sommerville Professional Officer – Mental Health E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2519/0417 538 447Kerril Williams Mental Health/College Admin Officer E: [email protected] T: 03 9642 2519 College: 1800 630 127Liz Morrison Publications Officer (ASW journal) Home Office Melbourne E: [email protected] Career Centre W: www.horizonemployment.com.au E: [email protected] T: 1300 73 13 14

National BulletinNATIONAL STAFF

BRANCH STAFF

The National Bulletin, which belongs to the entire membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers and exists to promote the objectives of the Association, is published four times per year by the Association. Policy issues concerning AASW’s publications (National Bulletin, Australian Social Work, and the website) are determined by the Board.

CONTRIBUTIONSContributions from all members of the Association including letters, articles, images and statements of opinion reflecting responsible concern about professional and social issues that pertain to social work are most welcome. The columns of the National Bulletin shall be open to those who hold cogent and responsible opposing opinions but the editor shall exercise final judgment on which expressions shall be given space in the publication.

Our Editorial Guidelines:Before making a submission, please ensure that you have read and understand our Editorial Guidelines. Only submissions that meet the requirements of our Editorial Guidelines will be considered for publication.

How do I make a submission?Please email your contact details with submission attached to [email protected] for consideration.For the Editorial Guidelines, Editorial Calendar (deadlines and themes) and Submission Form please visit the ‘Publications page’ on the AASW website (www.aasw.asn.au) or email [email protected].

Editorial enquiries and contributionsNational Bulletin CoordinatorPhone: 02 6232 3900Email: [email protected]: www.aasw.asn.au/publications/magazine

COPYRIGHTApart from fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism, or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the Editor via the National Office.

DISCLAIMERThe views expressed in the National Bulletin are not necessarily those of the AASW. Acceptance of advertising does not necessarily include endorsement of advertised products.

ADVERTISINGIncrease the profile of your business, products and services, advertise in the National Bulletin. The Media Kit including advertising rates and booking form can be found on the ‘Publications page’ of the AASW website or request a copy from our National Office.

Advertising enquiries and bookingsAASW National OfficePhone: 02 6232 3900Email: [email protected]: www.aasw.asn.au/publications/magazine

NEXT EDITIONThe Autumn 2012 edition of the National Bulletin will be distributed in early March. Contributions for the Winter 2012 edition will be accepted until 5 April 2012.

Australian Capital Territory Catherine Murnane Branch Office Manager E: [email protected] PO Box 4956, KINGSTON ACT 2604New South Wales Nives Crvenkovic – Project Officer E: [email protected] Diana Kolic – Branch Office Manager T: 02 8394 9850 / F: 02 8394 9895 E: [email protected] PO Box 1173, STRAWBERRY HILLS NSW 2012 9am–5pm Mon–FriNorth Queensland Antoinette Woods – Branch Office Manager T: 0428 489 683 / F: 07 4944 1361 E: [email protected] PO Box 1302, HYDE PARK QLD 4812 9am–5pm Tue, 9am–12 noon ThuNorthern Territory Christine Winn – Branch Office Manager T: 08 8948 1051 E: [email protected] PO Box 40556, CASUARINA NT 0811Queensland Mere Vitale – Branch Office Manager T: 07 3369 9818 / F: 07 3217 6938 E: [email protected] PO Box 1015, MILTON QLD 4064 9am–5pm Mon–Fri

South Australia Kathy Baklan – Branch Office Manager T: 08 8463 5911 / F: 08 8463 5981 E: [email protected] Level 1, Education Development Centre 4 Milner Street, HINDMARSH SA 5007 9.30am–5pm Tue & ThuTasmania Sandra Fox – Branch Office Manager T/F: 03 6224 5833 E: [email protected] PO Box 20, SOUTH HOBART TAS 7004 Tue & Thu `Victoria Liz Leveridge – Branch Office Manager T: 03 9602 5097/ F: 03 9642 2971 E: [email protected] PO Box 367, CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053 9am–5pm Mon, Wed, FriWestern Australia Sophie Mason – Executive Officer T: 08 9420 7240 / F: 08 9486 9766 E: [email protected] City West Lotteries House 2 Delhi Street, WEST PERTH WA 6005 8.30am–5pm Mon, Tue, Fri

NATIONAL BULLETIN 5

NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S REPORT

National President’s Report

Karen Healy

Dear AASW Members,

This special issue is aimed at encouraging new members to the AASW and to welcome back former members. We have provided you with two copies of this special edition in the hope that you will pass it on to other social workers who might consider joining.

It is usual in an editorial like this to outline the benefits of membership, but it is likely that members and non-members are aware of the benefits and costs and have made their decisions accordingly. So perhaps it is worth just saying why I joined the AASW and why I have remained a member.

“The main reason I decided to join the AASW is to be part of a professional community

of social workers. “

I have been a member for almost two decades from the early days of my career as a youth worker. Despite being on a low income I decided it was worth being a member. The main reason I decided to join the AASW is to be part of a professional community of social workers. Activities such as continuing professional development seminars and membership newsletters helped me stay in touch with my professional community. Today this opportunity to participate in one’s professional community becomes even more important as the social work and human services workforce becomes increasingly diversified. While the diversity of contemporary workplaces can be celebrated, it can also limit our opportunities to connect with others who share a foundation in social work knowledge, skills and values.

I joined also because of the journal of the AASW, Australian Social Work. As a practising social worker, I had little access to the professional journals that I saw (and still see) as essential for building the foundations of practice. I was thrilled to have access to the journal as part of my membership entitlements. The articles by leading authors and practitioners helped me to reflect upon, and to develop, my practice. The journal has continued to develop and is widely regarded as one of the leading professional social work journals in the world.

So I joined for connection to a professional community and for intellectual stimulation. I have stayed because of the professional networks and friendships I have made along the way. I have stayed because I believe in professional educational standards, for which the AASW is responsible. And finally, I have stayed also because I believe that social workers need to join together to speak for our profession and the people we serve.

If you are a member of the AASW, I hope you too will tell others your reasons for joining and for staying with the AASW. I am sure many of you will have different reasons to mine. By sharing our stories, we can encourage others to join. The stronger our membership base the more we can do for our profession and for the people our profession works with and for to achieve a more just society.

Karen Healy AASW National President

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51 AASW is the professional association for all social workers in Australia, setting standards for the profession and keeping them high.

Members come from all areas of employment, from any identified social work positions to policy makers, educators, administrators, researchers, private practitioners, community workers, governments.

AASW helps social workers to become better professionals.

We facilitate your continuing professional development through a variety of educational programs and support activities which help you maintain your professional skills throughout your career. For instance: Continuing Professional Development (CPD), Ethics consultation services, Mental Health Accreditation or branch and national events.

AASW upholds high standards for the social work profession.

Members form a strong community committed to professional excellence and integrity; AASW supports and progresses the profession, establishing standards with major initiatives such as the Code of Ethics, the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS).

To make a difference.

AASW is an active advocate on behalf of members and their clients and communities, influencing policy at government levels. We recently won the campaign on the Better Access to Mental Health Service, enabling clients to continue to see accredited Mental Heath social workers and receive a rebate from Medicare.

To network with your peers in your region.

AASW branches are an easy and effective way to stay connected and involved; through your professional network and practice groups, you can choose to make a difference in your region.

To be involved, informed and up-to-date.

As readers or contributors, AASW members participate in building the body of social work knowledge through a range of print and online publications, Australian Social Work (the Journal), National Bulletin, E-Bulletin and newsletters from AASW branches.

To get recognition and status in your workplace and in your profession.

AASW members are recognised as highly skilled and qualified social workers who enhance their profession.

To become an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW); to give your clients access to a Medicare rebate.

AASW is the accrediting body on behalf of Medicare Australia and the Australian Government for assessment of Accredited Mental Health Social Workers. Successful applicants are able to apply to Medicare Australia for a Medicare Provider Number. This enables them to qualify for AMHSW status, and their clients can access Medicare rebates.

To gain access to AASW staff to seek professional information.

Professional queries from AASW members are answered promptly by AASW staff, many of which are experienced social workers highly knowledgeable on current social work issues.

Why do social workers join the AASW?

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3 easy steps to join!Step 1: Contact the AASW Membership team or apply online

Either complete an application online or phone our Membership Team. The first step is to collect your details and then we can determine what type of membership you require.

Two types of membership1. Ordinary MembershipWho is eligible?• Applicants must hold either an AASW approved social work

qualification from an Australian tertiary institution or qualifications from overseas that have been assessed and recognised by the AASW as comparable to an AASW approved social work qualification.

• There are also a number of discontinued courses, which also provide eligibility for membership. Please refer to our website for further details about these.

Why are there different membership fee categories for this type of membership?The different membership fees help to make AASW Membership more inclusive and accessible to social workers with different employment situations. Our Membership Team will ask for information about your income and employment status to determine which category you fall into:1. Full Fee (gross personal income of more than $38,500)2. Reduced Fee (gross personal income of less than $38,500)3. Fully Retired Fee (fully retired from full time paid employment).

2. Student MembershipWho is eligible?• Applicants must be enrolled in an AASW accredited BSW or MSW

(qualifying), or be already eligible for AASW membership and undertaking full time Masters or Doctoral in social work studies.

Step 2: Payment

Payment options include credit card (preferred), cheque and BPAY or monthly deductions from your bank account by direct debit. Once payment has been received, your membership status will be ‘Pending’ until we’ve received your supporting documents.

How are the membership fees calculated?Our membership year is 1 July through to 30 June. After 1 July, fees are pro rata daily.

Step 3: Supply us with your supporting documents

You can email, fax or post in certified copies of any supporting documentation needed to complete your membership application. Once we’ve received these, your membership status will be changed to ‘Active’. You can then expect a letter welcoming you to the AASW and your membership card.Our friendly Membership Team is available to answer any of your queries requiring membership.

Join online at www.aasw.asn.au or call the Membership Team on 1800 630 124.

10To find career opportunities and resources at your fingertips.

Search the AASW’s Horizon Career Centre (www.horizonemployment.com.au) for job vacancies across Australia and access career resources. As an AASW member, you will receive a discount when you add your profile to our Locum database.

To be protected.

AASW members enjoy automatic Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance, as one of their membership benefits. This is particularly valuable if you are self-employed.

To save.

Enjoy benefits and discounts for a variety of professional and lifestyle products for you and your family. From flowers delivery to ski resorts, from sensational experiences to health clubs.

Find out what new deals you may be eligible for by visiting www.memberbenefits.com.au/aasw or look inside the back cover of this edition.

Contact the AASW MEMBER Benefits representative on: • Phone: 1300 304 551• Email: [email protected]

Need more reasons to join your professional association, AASW?

Inspire and be inspired, share your knowledge, your expertise and your

passion, learn from your peers, and be the best professional you can be.

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NEW FRONTIERS FOR SOCIAL WORK

Achieving registration for the social work profession has been a long term and strongly held goal of the AASW. Gaining inclusion for the regulation of the social work profession under the Commonwealth Government’s National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) is the focus of the work currently being undertaken by the National Registration Committee (NRC) of the AASW.

The outcomes of the NRC’s recent activities were highlighted in the Chief Operating Officer’s e-Bulletin dated 8 November, 2011. Essentially, they form part of a coordinated campaign that will ‘get into full swing’ this year with the involvement of all interested members, AASW staff, the Board and NRC members. Protecting the health and well being of Australians is the title of the

submission on the national regulation of the social work profession which has been forwarded to Commonwealth, State and Territory Health Ministers. It forms a key element of our campaign. The Board and the National Registration Committee believe that this submission makes a compelling case for the regulation of the social work profession under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme. Everyone is invited and encouraged to read this submission on the AASW website: www.aasw.asn.au/document/item/1817

All members of the National Registration Committee would welcome comments and questions from existing and potential AASW members about the work that we are doing and how you could be involved.

Achieving registration for Australian social workersBy the National Registration Committee

Campaign leadership

Then CEO of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) Kandie Allen-Kelly led and coordinated a National campaign involving national office staff and volunteers to change this decision. Kandie says the national office staff “worked like a team with a purpose” to quickly develop campaign

material and provide resources to members wanting to take part in the campaign.

Social workers around the country, determined to fight the change, wrote to and visited their members of parliament, the labour party, the opposition, the greens and the independents.

Better Access to Mental Health CareNo social worker would have missed the decision in May 2010 made by the Federal Government in the 2010-11 Budget to divert funds from the Better Access initiative, resulting in social workers and occupational therapists no longer being able to provide Medicare-funded services.

The Better Access initiative was aimed at improving public access to professional mental health care. The Government’s decision would have seen approximately 1100 social workers axed from the Medicare rebate program and reduce access to a vital service for low-income earners and disadvantaged people.

Thanks to the passionate and concerted campaign by the AASW and its members, the decision was reversed, and social workers continue to provide Medicare services under the Better Access initiative.

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NEW FRONTIERS FOR SOCIAL WORK

“I was impressed by the way volunteer members leveraged their networks to get public and organisational support including that of Professor Pat McGorry, Australian of the Year,” Kandie said.

The media

The AASW was highly vocal in the media, arguing that the removal of the social workers was not discussed with Association or its members prior to the release of the budget, and most importantly it jeopardised services to tens of thousands of people, as 67 per cent of social workers bulk-bill some or all of their clients. Of gravest concern were the people living in rural, remote and regional Australia. Social Workers make up a large proportion of the better access workforce in those areas and their removal would have dire consequences. Members’ stories painted a gloomy picture for other much marginalised people.

One accredited mental health social worker runs Sydney’s only private counseling service using sign language for people who are deaf or hearing impaired. During the campaign he expressed his concerns of how the decision will affect his clients.

“My clients are in a lower socio-economic group. Their inability to access services from counsellors that can communicate with them and have a detailed understanding of their culture and background leaves them at a significant disadvantage,” he said.

In the editorial in Australian Social Work in September 2010 Kandie Allen-Kelly argued the importance of taking on this issue for social work as a profession. She encouraged social workers to speak up and pursue justice for the profession and social justice for issues which they are passionate about.

Kandie says that following the campaign, all of those involved have felt an “extraordinary sense of achievement, empowerment and pride in the profession.”

The Government’s response

The Government listened to the AASW’s strong campaign and the Minister and Department of Health met with the AASW to discuss the issue, committing to give the AASW an equal role with other health professions in shaping federal policy on mental health. Late last year the new Minister for Mental Health, Hon Mark Butler, agreed to launch the new Code of Ethics at the AGM and used the opportunity to also announce the reversal of the budget decision.

“As we’ve been talking to the sector about different needs in mental health, the value of the skills of social workers and occupational therapists has been reinforced,” Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Butler said in a statement.

The AASW is pleased that the Government has indicated that it recognises the value of these clinical services and looks forward to continue to work with the Government

to offer advice on the development of services to Australians with mental health issues. In 2011 we have been working, on your behalf, to cement the place of social workers in the new primary health care organisations,

Medicare Locals. Get involved in the AASW and get involved with the Medicare Local in your community.

Kandie Allen-Kelly

“I was impressed by the way

volunteer members

leveraged their networks to

get public and organisational

support.” The Hon Mark Butler, Minister for Mental Health and Ageing

Following the campaign, all of those involved felt an “extraordinary sense of achievement, empowerment and pride in the profession.”

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EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Supporting and promoting ethical conduct in social work

Ethics services and supports at the AASW

Ethics services at the AASW have been developed to support, inform and engage with social workers, their employers, educators and clients across Australia to enhance and promote professional knowledge and awareness of ethical practice.

This is achieved through the provision of:• an Ethics Consultation Service• the Ethics Complaints Management

Service• Ethics training packages• Ethics FAQs and professional resources

The Ethics Consultation Service

What we do

The Ethics Consultation Service is the AASW’s flagship ethics support service. It aims to support, enhance and promote ethical conduct and decision making by providing members and others with an opportunity to discuss and critically reflect on ethical practice issues and dilemmas.

The service is staffed by an experienced social worker with specialist training in professional ethics who has access to a national network of leading social work practitioners and academics. That is not to say however that answers to ethical issues arising in practice are ‘easy’.

“Ethical decision-making is rarely a ‘black and white’ process. It involves weighing a range of relevant and sometimes competing factors to arrive at the best possible solution,” said Donna McAuliffe, National Ethics Group Convenor.

National Ethics and Practice Standards Officer, Sue Rouch, says that at times people call the ECS expecting that they should be able to look at the Code and clearly see what they should do in a particular scenario.

“That’s why the ECS is so crucial; ethical decision-making is not always this straight forward and social workers should feel that it’s normal and to be expected that issues need to be worked through. Sometimes, a five minute conversation can make all the difference,” Sue said.

Some examples of questions received by the ECS

Examples of questions received by the ECS include:• I’ve received a subpoena but my case

notes includes information about children that is not relevant to the matter before the Court. What should I do?

In 2010, and following consultation with hundreds of social workers and others, the AASW launched a new Code of Ethics.

The Code (2010, 10) “expresses the values and responsibilities which are integral to, and characterise, the social work profession. It is intended to assist all social workers, collectively and individually, to act in ethically accountable ways in the pursuit of the profession’s aims”.

For a copy of the Code, please contact us at [email protected] or on 03 9642 2307.

By Sue Rouch

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• I rent a room in a private counselling service. Who is ultimately responsible for client records?

• I’d like to provide a service online. Are there particular ethical responsibilities for online service provision?

• We are concerned the open plan working environment is compromising our capacity to practice according to ethical standards. What can or should we do?

• My supervisor and I disagree about the most ethical course of action. Can the AASW assist us in coming to a resolution?

Additional services

In addition to providing support to social workers on a range of ethical issues, the service can also refer enquirers to a variety of AASW ethics resources and external services including legal advice, industrial bodies and education and training providers.

To find out more

The Ethics Consultation Service can be contacted on 03 9642 2307 or at [email protected]. More information can be found on our website at www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/ethics-consultation-resources

Ethics FAQs and professional resources

Ethics FAQs

The Ethics Consultation Service has developed a suite of Ethics FAQs, which discuss in more detail common issues or questions raised by callers to the ECS. They include FAQs on:• Mandatory reporting• Responding to a subpoena• Case note recording• Ethical workplaces• Practising overseas.

Currently in development are FAQs on:• Information management• Professional boundaries and dual

relationships• Social work and social media• Working in Private Practice.

FAQs can be accessed at www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/ethics-faqs

Ethics links and other resources

The AASW Ethics Team has recently developed a resources page that contains links to a range of useful information on a range of social work ethics and related topics including:• Social work journals and academic

resources• An AASW Code of Ethics (2010) training

package, which outlines the major changes and developments in the new Code

• Links to Federal, State and Territory Courts and legislation

• Sources of free legal advice and information

• Australian and international professional boards and associations

• Links to a range of Ombudsman and Health and Community Commissions.

The resources page is updated once a month and we welcome your involvement in expanding these resources. Members can contribute to this page by submitting useful links or resources to us at [email protected].

Ethics training

Two new ethics training packages have been developed in 2011. These are:• a Code of Ethics 2010 training package,

which was developed by Sharlene Nipperess, former Code of Ethics Review Project Officer, and

• a training package of Sexualised Boundary Violations developed by Deborah Sauvage, Convenor of the Queensland Branch Ethics Group.

Both of these training packages will soon be available to members via an online CPD module. AASW Branches also run Code of Ethics training sessions, amongst many others. To find out information about training available through your Branch visit www.aasw.asn.au/events/category/all-events

For more information

For more information on the full range of ethics services and supports available at the AASW, please see our website at www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/ethics-consultation-resources, or contact the Ethics Consultation Service on 03 9642 2307 or at [email protected]

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Assessing international qualifications and skills

AASW’s role in skills assessment for migration purposes

Social work is currently listed on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s (DIAC) Skilled Occupation List and therefore social workers are entitled to lodge an expression of interest (EOI) with DIAC for a General Skilled Migration Visa. One must have their skills assessment completed at the time of lodging their EOI. Lodging an EOI with DIAC can be a time consuming process and it is wise to plan in advance of when you hope to submit.

On 1 July 2011, DIAC also requested that the AASW assess migrant’s skilled employment claims. That is any applicant who hopes to be awarded extra points based on their skilled work experience in their occupation is required to submit evidence of this work experience to the AASW. The AASW then provides advice to the applicant as to whether or not this equates to work experience at a suitably skilled level for a social worker in Australia. DIAC take this advice into account when determining the appropriate points to be awarded.

Answering employers’ enquiries

In addition to completing assessments we are also kept very busy offering advice and direction to the many international social workers who contact us prior to lodging an assessment. We are also regularly contacted by Australian employers who seek our advice regarding employment applications they have received from international social workers and they wish to understand the education and training that the applicant is likely to have received. In such instances we can provide some information if the social worker holds a qualification we have previously assessed but in all cases a social worker can only be

assessed as eligible after they have lodged an application with us and their individual application has been assessed as eligible for membership of the AASW.

Eligibility

There is no list of automatically eligible international social work qualification, every qualification is assessed on its individual merits as qualifications can change over time and in certain cases the optional units chosen by the individual student can impact on the outcome. In some cases we also need to include the social worker’s post qualifying work experience in the assessment and for this reason we can not guarantee that a specific qualification is automatically eligible.

IQA and the ASWEAS

We assess qualifications according to the procedure set out in the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards, (ASWEAS) specifically parts 3 &4 of this document set out the criteria and process involved in assessing international social work qualifications. There is a copy of this document on the AASW website in the Forms & Resources section. As most members will be aware the AASW are currently conducting a review of ASWEAS parts 1 and 2. The IQA team are looking forward to commencing the review of parts 3 and 4 in the coming months. We will be seeking the participation of members in this process and we will advertise when this has commenced so please help us with this review.

If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact our friendly IQA team on 03 9642 2712 or email us on [email protected]

The Australian Association of Social Workers is the official authority for the assessment of overseas qualifications in social work, for the purpose of migration and AASW membership eligibility. This work is completed by the International Qualifications Assessment team based in the AASW Melbourne National Office.

In the past financial year the AASW received a total of 224 applications for qualifications assessments, all applicants were seeking an AASW membership eligibility assessment, 154 of these also required a skills assessment for migration purposes.

By Catriona Heffernan, IQA Professional Officer

Importance of planning ahead

For those who are seeking employment in a social work position that requires evidence of membership eligibility of the AASW it can be tempting to put off applying for an assessment until a position is offered. But given that our assessment times can vary from 4 to 8 weeks this can be problematic as an employer may not be able to wait this long and the AASW may not always be able to accommodate a priority assessment.


PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & LIFE-LONG LEARNING

Providing more opportunities for Members’ professional developmentBy Mark Crossley, National Education Officer

AASW Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

For many years the AASW has provided professional development activities for members through each Branch, as well as a program for recognition of maintaining contemporary knowledge, skills and standards, through the CPD Policy.

A new CPD Policy was published in mid 2011. Members are currently trialling the policy to progress further development. The policy establishes for the first time minimum CPD requirements for all AASW members (excluding retirees and students). We are committed to developing a CPD program that supports all members and strongly encourage members to contribute to the development process by providing feedback.

The guiding principles for the new CPD Policy are that: All members (excluding students/retirees) should complete CPD; the AASW must support members in their professional development including increasing access to relevant professional development opportunities; the requirements of the program must be simple.

Branch CPD

AASW Branches have had a busy 2011 running a wide selection of professional development events and activities. Each Branch presents a variety of activities each year including; conferences and symposiums; workshops; forums; practice group meetings and networking activities. For more information see the events page of the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events

Highlights for 2011 across the branches include:• The Biennial North Queensland and

Queensland Branch Conference “Advance Australia Fair? The role of Social Work in achieving social justice and human rights”

• Renowned human rights activist, lawyer and author Justice Unity Dows presentation to the ACT Branch Rose Garden seminar

• The Tasmania/Sexual Assault Support Services public forum

• Social Workers in Brain Injury Conference in New South Wales

• The Northern Territories ‘Ethics at Work’ Conference

• The 7th Annual Jenny Morrison Memorial Lecture in Queensland

• The very popular Northern and Southern Area Networking events in South Australia

• The Grace Vaughan Lecture in WA• The 10th Biennial National Rural/Remote

Social Worker Conference in Victoria.

Education program

AASW is the body responsible for the accreditation of qualifying social work degrees in Australian universities. Accreditation is the means by which Social Work programs are reviewed against the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards, the national standards for qualifying Social Work education. Graduates of accredited programs are eligible for AASW membership, the benchmark for qualified Social Work in Australia.

Both Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (Qualifying) MSW(Q) degrees are accredited by the AASW. Each program is reviewed (approximately five yearly) by a team of experts who ensure it meets the education standards whilst contributing to program innovation and development.

Currently there are accredited programs at 27 Universities right across Australia with over 6000 students enrolled in 2011. Around 1000 students graduated from accredited degrees during 2011, all having gained the skills and knowledge to make a start in their Social Work career.

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THE AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE of SOCIAL WORK– Leading Practice Excellence –

The Australian College of Social Work commenced in 2011 to recognise, acknowledge, reward and promote advanced social work practice. By definition the College is a collegial group of social workers who have attained expertise in a specialised area of social work or generic practice and take responsibility to further that area’s knowledge, practice, identity and influence. The College is in an exciting period of growth, where its direction is still being set, programs are being created and Divisions are being developed. The College staff see the first few years as laying a strong foundation for the future and have an eye to what the College will look like in 10 to 15 years time. We appreciate the support, encouragement and patience that we are receiving from all the key people involved.

The College has commenced with the appointment of 12 Foundation Fellows, 11 Inaugural Fellows and one Life Fellow. These social workers represent a huge body of knowledge and expertise within the profession and the AASW is proud to count them in the ‘foundations’ of this important initiative for the profession in Australia. A brief introduction to each of these Fellows is on the ACSW website. The Association has recognised many social workers of excellence in the past; the College is about providing a formal place for advanced practitioners to find a home within the profession and within the Association. Membership of the College can be aspirational for new social workers wanting to target a career as an advanced practitioner within the profession demonstrating leadership, specialist knowledge and a commitment to social work values and principles.

At the time of publication the College has accepted 18 social workers into its membership. Most are in the Clinical Division and are authorised by the College and the AASW to title themselves ‘Clinical Social Workers’. By achieving membership of the College in the Clinical Division, these social workers demonstrate to their interdisciplinary colleagues, their clients, employers and to the community, their standing within the profession. The College will publish a brief introduction of new members either in future editions of the National Bulletin or on the website.

Advancing social work practice through the ACSW

ACSW’s First Members

ACSW Clinical Division/Mental HealthNed Tkalcevic (VIC) Vicki Cowling (NSW) Chris Lobsinger (QLD) Korey Pagura (QLD) Sunny Hong (QLD) Mary O’Brien (QLD) Julie Stone (Powell) (NSW) Judie Hind-Roff (VIC) Quan Dong Nguyen (VIC) Dr Geraldene Mackay (VIC) Melody Krok (QLD) Richard Majda (WA) Robin Bowles (NSW) Alex Zannoni (VIC) Peter Brennan (QLD) Jo Casamento (TAS) Fran Conway (QLD) Dr Michael Reed (NSW)

General MembershipReeny Jurczyszyn (QLD)

Foundation FellowsProfessor Margaret Alston OAM (VIC) Professor Robert Bland AM (QLD) Professor Lesley Chenoweth (QLD) Associate Professor Carmel Flaskas (NSW) Dr Maria Harries AM (WA) Professor Richard Hugman (NSW) Christine King (ACT) Dr Sharon McCallum (QLD) Dr Pauline Meemeduma Dr Peter Munn (SA) Dr Grahame Simpson (NSW) Professor Jill Wilson AO (QLD)

Inaugural FellowsProfessor Christine Bigby (Research & Education) (VIC) Professor Allan Borowski (Research & Education) (VIC) Dr Mary Hood (Socio-legal) (SA) Associate Professor Donna McAuliffe (Research & Education) (QLD) Ms Linda Mondy (Socio-legal) (NSW) Mr Thomas (Tom) O’Brien (Clinical) (QLD) Associate Professor Elizabeth Ozanne (Research & Education) (VIC) Ms Kerryn Pennell (Clinical) (VIC) Dr Jane Thomson (General: defining General Membership of the College for Advanced Generic Practitioners) (QLD) Associate Professor Ingrid Wagner (Clinical) (QLD) Mr Brian Wooller (Socio-legal) (WA)

Life FellowJoe Calleja (WA)


Some useful questions and answersBy Jan Carter

For more information about the Australian College of Social Work, please visit www.acsw.asn.au

What has the College been doing lately?

The College met with members in Perth, Bunbury, Hobart, Ballarat, Townsville, Darwin, Alice Springs and Shepparton (wee College website, under Director’s Diary (www.aasw.asn.au/acsw). The College held a forum on advanced practice in Melbourne and met with Foundation and Inaugural Fellows around the country including specifically at the Townsville AGM and North Queensland Conference.

What Division should I join?

There are choices to be made. The Clinical Division is open now and other Divisions will open in coming months and years including: Socio-Legal; Leadership and Governance; Research and Education; General Social Work; and Community Social Work. AASW members can join the College as a general member or a specific Division. The Clinical Division includes a mental health specialty. The College has appointed three Inaugural Fellows, Dr Ingrid Wagner, Dr Tom O’Brien (Qld) and Kerryn Pennell (Vic) to work on vision, goals, strategies, governance and program of this Division.

However, not everyone will want to join the Clinical Division – or for that matter any Division. Some people view themselves as Advanced Generic Practitioners and will want to join the College as a general member. Dr Jane Thompson is the Inaugural Fellow who will help to define membership and governance of the College in relation to generic social workers.

In the next twelve months the College plans to open the Socio-Legal Division for social workers working with involuntary (or statutory) clients. The Inaugural Fellows appointed to develop this Division are Dr Mary Hood (SA), Linda Mondy (NSW) and Brian Wooller (WA).

What is the College offering in terms of Continuing Professional Development?

The College has been working to provide opportunities for both AASW members generally as well as College members. In implementing the College’s commitment to providing advanced CPD programs for our members, our first initiative has been to ask

our Foundation Fellows to define advanced practice. A group of Foundation Fellows spoke about advanced practice at a forum at the Victorian Annual Meeting. A DVD has been made of this meeting and will be used at other Branch meetings.

We have also uploaded the plenary speeches from the recent Victorian Mental Health Social Workers conference onto the AASW website in the member’s area. The College plans for its website to be a key part in its CPD delivery, to provide more people the opportunity to participate.

How is the College planning progressing?

The ACSW is the result of a number of years of thought, research and consultation, and like any large undertaking of importance, its development takes a considerable amount of planning and discussion. The ACSW’s four part time staff – Foundation Director Jan Carter, Executive Officer Stephen Brand, Administration Officer Kerril Williams and Professional Officer Liz Sommerville – are working hard to establish all aspects of the College including, membership, CPD, Divisions, events and big picture planning. Divisions are being planned by designated Inaugural Fellows and in February a meeting of the Foundation Fellows will develop a long term strategic plan.

The focus is on advanced practice and education. How does that affect who can be a member?

The College’s membership is based on the belief that academic work enriches practice, therefore qualifications and advanced practice are entwined. Currently, postgraduate certificates or diplomas or equivalent (such as psychotherapy or family therapy training) holders are eligible for membership under the educational criterion.

However looking ahead, the College will ask all of its members to undertake a minimum of a masters degree or equivalent. This is to keep up with the advances in higher education, to keep social work recognition in line with other professions and maintain our focus on advanced education and practice.

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20 questions: The first ACSW Life Fellow, Joe CallejaThe Australian College of Social Work has announced its first Life Fellow, Mr Joe Calleja, for his meritorious and exceptional service to the College. For the past 17 years, Joe has advocated that the AASW support advanced practice. This interview introduces AASW members across Australia to Joe, who is the CEO of the Richmond Fellowship in WA.

The full interview can be found on the ACSW website: www.aasw.asn.au/acsw/life-fellows

1. Where were you born, where did you grow up and what kind of family did you come from?

I was born in Subiaco, Western Australia, to Maltese parents who arrived in Australia with four young children months earlier. I grew up in Bassendean, a very working class suburb, which felt miles away from Perth but these days is only twenty minutes by train or car! I was part of a family of 8 children in an increasing number of migrant families populating Australia during the 1950s.

2. Do you still have important connections to this part of the world?

My parents are both 90 years old and still live in the family home in Bassendean. I have been to Malta twice in my lifetime, the second time as our two teenage boys developed a relationship with their Maltese cousins via Facebook, even though they had never met them. When we were met by my Maltese cousins at the airport in Malta they advised us that our respective children had already arranged to go out that evening!

3. What kind of schooling did you have? Best and worst memories?

I went to Catholic schools run by the Mercy nuns and La Salle brothers respectively and then to a Christian Brothers school for Matriculation. My worst memory was in Grade Three when Sister Jerem made me eat a sandwich I had accidentally dropped in the sand. I think something clicked in me that day! My best memory was leaving school.

4. What were your most formative childhood influences?

Although I have long felt ambivalent about the Catholic Church, I think it shaped a great deal of my attitudes to social justice and community. These experiences combined with growing up in a large migrant family helped shape a passion for fairness and change.

5. How old were you when you decided to be a social worker and why?

I decided to become a social worker or a teacher when I was around 15 years old – something to do with an expectation by teachers that I would either join a religious order or go out into that heathen world and do something constructive!

6. Most memorable aspects of social work study?

Another student and I on a student placement updated a resource guide for people who were unemployed. It turned out to be bigger than Ben Hur and ran up quite a bill. So we were determined to make it pay for itself. Later editions were produced by the AASW WA, until the social security system became as complex as the Taxation Act and it was no longer viable.

We also had some great lecturers even though we might not have always shared the same points of view then (or now). Not all were social workers – this helped to broaden our thinking and was an early introduction to multi disciplinary work. I remember feeling a bit shocked periodically at picking up some negative – rather than constructive – criticisms of social work as a profession from social work academics – paid to train us as social workers!

7. First job?

My first job was in child protection. Even though I was mature age student, it was more challenging than I was emotionally capable of handling. I had previously been a high school teacher so some of it might have been about realising how much I didn’t notice when I was a teacher. The worst part was the start to my professional career: I had to put a five-year-old girl on a plane (accompanied by her aunt) on Christmas Eve because her trial placement with her mother had broken down and the relocation had been in the case plan. I had been in the job three weeks after finishing at

Joe Calleja

“I learnt a great deal about

holding ‘the faith’ when the

odds are against you because

one often wins when people’s

perceptions and understandings

of issues are wafer thin and

are challenged”


University. It was the worst Christmas I have ever had.

8. Any significant early mentors?

My earliest mentor was and still is Brian Wooller. I think he is exceptional and he paid dearly for his commitment to social work and his ethical stands. He has been the moral victor on occasions when pilloried for taking the stands he did as WA Branch President or in his workplace. I learnt a great deal about holding ‘the faith’ when the odds are against you because one often wins when people’s perceptions and understandings of issues are wafer thin and are challenged. Professor Jayasuriya, although a clinical psychologist by training, was one of the strongest advocates for social work I have ever encountered. Tony Morrison from the UK was also an early mentor – his work in social work supervision and multidisciplinary work in child protection helped shaped my approach to practice. Dianne, my wife, is also a social worker, and her wisdom and support has become increasingly important.

9. When and why did you join the AASW?

I joined the AASW in my first week as a social work student at the University of WA, when Brian Wooller spoke to us as WA AASW Branch President. A large number of us joined the WA Branch within days of him talking to us – also a product of a supportive environment created by the academic staff. Sadly, over the years I have come to learn that many social work educators are not as supportive. This makes me wonder why they teach social work.

10. Professionally, what has been your most challenging task?

My most professionally challenging task was as the Principal Social Worker in the state child protection agency at a time when there was a push to de-professionalise. Many decision makers were social work graduates who didn’t really identify with the profession or really understand social work. I began to understand how important social work education was as a basis for informing good practice. I also began to understand how for some a social work degree was simply a meal ticket.

11. Professionally, what was the biggest risk you took and how did it turn out?

My biggest risk was to take a high profile in the AASW in a small community when it

was fashionable to dismiss the AASW as being elitist and irrelevant. Some prominent social work academics had taken strong anti-AASW stands and social work trained senior executives and CEOs were openly dismissive. I was possibly a bit naïve in not recognising this could be poison for my future career development, but Brian Wooller, Grace Vaughan and Jan Stewart stood out as models and inspired that direction in my professional life by their diversity of career direction. Jan Carter and Jane Brazier had earlier demonstrated the value of social work by their pioneering role in child protection. Maria Harries showed how one could be a practitioner and still influence policy, then move into academic settings and be linked to practice while having a strong connection with the AASW. I have seen over the years how many others have done the same. More recently I have seen how Bob Lonne has managed to steer the AASW through some difficult times. I have had a diverse career in social work including in positions not specifically recognisable as being social work, so the risk has paid off!

12. Professionally, what has been your most frustrating task?

My most frustrating task has been to work with social work colleagues on building a more robust AASW. We seem to be a profession that ‘eats its own’ and sadly this attitude seems to start in social work education, where insufficient attention is paid to developing a student’s understanding of the value of social work interventions. This contributes to the ambivalence people develop to the profession, hence the lack of willingness to seeing the value of joining the AASW.

13. Professionally, what has been your most enjoyable task?

Professionally, my most enjoyable task has been to help make a positive contribution to mental health reform in Western Australia. A specific example is to have helped strengthen the consumer voice including through introducing the self help group Hearing Voices Network into Australia from Europe. From an AASW perspective, I have also enjoyed (although at times difficult) the role in helping to establish the ACSW.

Go to the ACSW website: www.aasw.asn.au/acsw/life-fellows for the rest of this interview, and read Joe Calleja’s answers to these questions:

14. What are you passionate about- what gets you out of bed in the morning?

15. A balanced life – what does this mean for you?

16. What would you have done with your life, if not social work?

17. How would you like to be remembered?

18. What has the AASW meant for you?

19. Is there anything you find frustrating about the AASW?

20. What is your vision for the Australian College of Social Work?

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COMMUNITY BUILDING & OPPORTUNITIES

A world of opportunity for the International Social Work CommitteeAll AASW Committees give participants the opportunity to meet new people, have new experiences and be exposed to new knowledge. The International Social Work Committee is no exception, literally opening up a world of opportunity for its members in an area they are passionate about, international social work.

In the five years AASW member Dayle Forman has been involved in the Committee, she has been presented with many opportunities to satisfy her passion around international social work.

“I’ve always had a curiosity and interest in not only what we’re doing in Australia in social work but also on an international level,” Ms Foreman said.

Ms Foreman is a Lecturer of Social Work at the Australian Catholic University in Brisbane, and is currently undertaking a PhD at Griffith University looking at Australian social worker’s understanding and meaning of their international social work practice in developing countries.

“When the ISW Committee came up, I thought this is a great opportunity to be included in a community of like-minded people and look at making a bit of a difference at the way we’re working at an international level,” she said.

In November 2010, Ms Foreman was given the opportunity to join Naomi Spencer, a clinical practitioner social worker and ISWC

member, on an Australia Malaysia Institute funded project in Malaysia. The project was the beginning of a successful partnership between the AASW and the Malaysian Association of Social Workers.

Ms Foreman and Ms Spencer visited universities teaching social work and community agencies in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuching in Sarawak and Kota Kinabulu in Sabah. The main focus of the trip was to develop collaborative working partnerships and to look at knowledge building of each country’s practices and how we can work together in supporting one another.

“From a social work perspective we were able to identify, compare and contrast the many political, cultural, social, economic and religious issues between Malaysia and Australia and how we, as social workers, manage the complexities of our societies.”

“I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to become a committee member of the ISWC, as this experience has provided the opportunity to develop friendships with both the committee members and our international social work colleagues. My journey as an ISW committee member continues to be an exciting and stimulating learning experience,” Ms Foreman said.

The relationship between the AASW and its Malaysian counterparts has continued to grow since the ISWC representatives have returned to Australia. The project has led to the development of other projects and joint ventures, as well as greater AASW participation on an international level. The project has enabled rich discussions between Malaysian and Australian social workers, and built relationships which will further develop understanding and exchanges.

Committee members of the Malaysian Association of Social Workers, Dayle Foreman and Naomi Spencer at the MASW national office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.


COMMUNITY BUILDING & OPPORTUNITIES

Common issues have been identified, as well as broadening awareness in both Australia and Malaysia of each other’s culture, values and traditions. Following the Malaysian Association of Social Workers visit to Australia, the organisation’s President says the experience has given them new goals to build the future of social work in Malaysia.

“My trip to Australia has taught me of many possibilities that the [Malaysian] Association can do. Prof. Bob Lonne, the [then] President of AASW has reminded us that the Association is the “guardian of standards” while Naomi Spencer has, on many occasions, told us that social workers must be ready to “step into the space” – social workers must take the lead in determining and demonstrating competency in what we do professionally and ethically,” said President Teoh Ai Hua.

As opportunities for social workers to broaden their careers and work internationally continue to grow, the ISWC are constantly looking at knowledge, capacity building and how best to support the growing number of social workers interested in international practice.

“Being a committee member has, and continues to be about the development of professional friendships and relationships; it’s about understanding similarities and differences of professional social work practice; it’s about benchmarking your practice with like-minded professional colleagues in an international arena;

it’s about strengthening and enhancing professional development,” Ms Foreman said.

The ISW Committee is now reflecting on their experiences in Malaysia and elsewhere; what they’ve learnt from participating in forums such as CHOGM; planning for the IFSW Conference in Stockholm; developing relationships and focusing on creating opportunities for its members and the Association to experience social work on an international level.

If you are interested in participating in the International Social Work Committee, please contact the Convenor Lesley Chenoweth: [email protected]

Teoh Ai Hua (President of the MASW), Elsie Lee (Vice President of the MASW and Publications Secretary IFSW Asia Pacific Regional Committee), Dayle Foreman and Naomi Spencer at the MASW National Office headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

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PURSUING SOCIAL JUSTICE & INCLUSION

Reshaping the profession in relation to Indigenous Australians

In recent years, the Australian Association of Social Workers has made significant and positive progress towards reshaping the social work profession and the Association in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) people.

At the 2010 AGM, a constitutional amendment was passed to appoint an ATSI National Director to oversee the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Workers National Committee in its role as responsible for determining the AASW’s position and engagement on issues affecting ATSI people and representing the interests of ATSI members of the Association.

The first ATSI National Director is Glenice Garvie, who has been an active member of the AASW for many years. Glenice started her career as a nurse and has since had a variety of experience in the social work field. Along with a Bachelor of Social Work, Glenice has an Associate Diploma in Aboriginal Community Management and Development. With an obvious gap in AASW programs related to her work and interests surrounding the ATSI community, Glenice was keen to participate in a greater capacity as soon as the possibility of creating an ATSI group was discussed.

“The changes that have been made and the positive directions that are now signalled excite me and I would encourage Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander social workers who have a negative view of the AASW to take another look,” Glenice said.

In the role of ATSI National Director, Glenice would like to see an expansion of informed debate and academic discourse between ATSI members, and including non-members in this process.“There are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social workers out there who are

doing amazing things but are not members,” she said.

Some other significant changes have already taken place, including the inclusion of a preamble to the new Code of Ethics in which the AASW pays

its respect to ATSI people. Indigenous artwork has also been used on the cover and on other AASW documents and policies.

Early in 2011, the AASW and Routledge journals released a special issue of Australian Social Work (The Journal) on Australian Indigenous Social Work and Social Policy. This issue includes papers from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous social work academics and practitioners. It has a broad focus, covering reconciliation, Indigenous practice approaches, culturally-sensitive practice, and Indigenous perspectives on social work education, policy, and social program developments.

The ATSI committee is also responsible for developing a Reconciliation Action Plan to assist the Association to build positive relationships between social workers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, as well as between Indigenous and non-Indigenous social workers. The RAP turns good intensions into clear, measurable actions that will support equity and social justice and provides a format for exploring how reconciliation can advance the objectives of the AASW.

The RAP will be a resource which our members can adapt within their workplace, profession and community and in this way promote wider engagement in the reconciliation process. To assist with the RAP development, Christine Fejo-King, an Indigenous consultant, has been a guest speaker and involved in a number of AASW presentations across Australia. This positive initiative has been welcomed not only by members; the process of developing a Reconciliation Action Plan has engaged past-members and non-members and revitalised interest in AASW membership.

It will be the public contribution of the AASW towards the national effort to close the unacceptable life expectancy gap and other Indigenous disadvantage between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and the broader Australian population. “Through information sharing and encouraging debate, people coming together, sharing experiences and supporting each other, we can achieve those aims within the social work profession,” Glenice said.

Vicki Martin-Moller with Christine Fejo-King and her family

Glenice Garvie, ATSI National Director


AROUND AASW

The AASW ACT Branch has a small but active membership, which participates in a variety of CPD events throughout the year, keeping our members informed and providing networking opportunities with colleagues. In 2011, our Branch has continued to build on our strong collaborative relationship with The Australian Catholic University (ACU) School of Social Work. Visiting academics and speakers of interest, who visit the university, are often available for Branch CPD events. Our partnering with the University provides us with closer links with the education sector and keeps our members in touch with social work research at the ACU and the Institute of Child Protection Studies.

AASW/ACU Rose Garden Seminars have been a feature of our ACT Branch activities for a number of years and are well-known and respected throughout the sector in the ACT. The purpose of Rose Garden Seminars is primarily Continuing Professional Development for members, but topics are often of interest to any worker in the social services sector. Rose Garden events cover a range of current issues and CPD training needs and are held monthly. Entry is by gold coin donation. Social Work students are welcome to attend and members are free to invite colleagues who are non-members or practitioners from other Allied Health disciplines.

Topics covered are quite diverse, in 2011 presentations ranged from a presentation by Sam Storey on “Building Family Through Inter-Country Adoption” to Matt Teran’s interesting presentation on “Making a World of Difference: Conceptual Guidelines for Social Work with Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual People”, and the final of the year, a thought provoking and challenging presentation from Sue Houghton, Senior Advocate with the Public Advocate, ACT which covered “Guardianship - ethical dilemmas associated with practice” and generated lots of discussion.

The Annual Social Work Day Dinner held on 10 March 2011 was one of the highlights of our local Social Work calendar. Our Guest Speaker for 2011 was Professor Margaret Alston, Head of Dept. Social Work Monash

University, who gave a stimulating and interesting presentation on “Social Work, Gender and Climate Change: an international perspective”.

The ACT Branch Management Committee also organises short workshops and seminars on topical issues, as opportunities arise. In 2011, we celebrated International Social Work day with a visit from Unity Dow, International Jurist and Human Rights activist, who was visiting Canberra. Ms Dow addressed members who attended our special celebratory afternoon tea.

Finally to wrap up 2011 we held a gathering of ACT members to thank everyone who has helped to make our CPD activities throughout the year such a success.

At present we are involved in planning an interesting and engaging CPD program and activities for 2012. In 2012, as well as our usual CPD Rose Gardens and Social Work Dinner, we hope to run, a couple of Networking Breakfasts. We are also planning some short workshops on Mental Health, Supervision and Jim Ife had agreed to do a Workshop on Human Rights.

Rose gardens, interesting presentations and networking for ACT members

Australian Capital Territory Branch

Snapshot of activities in 2012

This is just a snapshot of the ACT Branch CPD program for 2012 and some details may be subject to change. More information and updated details can be found on the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events.

February 14: ACU Orientation Week Community Seminar.

March 20: World Social Work Day. Mark this date in your diary as we are planning to combine our Rose Garden seminar with WSD celebrations and a guest speaker.

April 2: Rose Garden Seminar. Please note Rose Garden will be on the first Monday due to Easter.

May 3: Social Work Dinner at the National Press Club. Bollywood theme with guest speaker Prof. Karen Healy on “AASW – challenges and opportunities ahead …”

June: Mental Health Workshop.

July 5/6 (TBC): Workshop on Human Rights. Jim Ife.

August: Supervision Workshop. Wendy Bowles, Lecturer Charles Sturt University.

Date TBC: Morag McArthur & Claire Grealy – Urbis Evaluation on their award winning evaluation of the Victorian Bushfires Case Management Service.

NETWORKING BREAKFASTS

Watch out for our Networking Breakfasts in 2012. We plan to have one in mid-February and again mid-September – an email will be sent out late in January with the details.

ACT Branch President Chandalala Mambwe, ACT Branch Member Keith Mahar and ACT Branch Vice-President Michel Hansen at the 2011 Christmas function.

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AROUND AASW

In late May 2011, the NSW Branch office relocated from Glebe to Chippendale as part of its grand plan to be based in a premise which is centrally located and can provide more benefits to members.

As well as moving, the NSW branch, in collaboration with the National Office, has undertaken a refit of the new office to create a functional, professional and stylish space for staff and members alike.

“Our great new premises will enable the NSW Branch to move into a new era of development,” said Branch President Annie Crowe.

Featured in the 200 square metre premises are three counselling rooms available for sessional or daily rental for member social workers working in private practice. There is also a well equipped seminar room with a capacity of 60 people to be used for Continuing Professional Development and for use by members.

“This is a brand new direction for us and the management committee is very excited at the prospect of making this work,” Annie said.

With all furnishings and decor in place, the office was officially opened at the 2011 AGM. The NSW Branch welcomes all of its members to pop in to see the new office as well as take advantage of the space purpose-made for them.

New office opens doors for membersNew South Wales Branch


This is just a snapshot of the New South Wales Branch CPD program for 2012 and some details may be subject to change. More information and updated details can be found on the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events.

February 10: Deactivating the Buttons: Integrating a Trauma Lens into a Counselling Framework. With Laurie MacKinnon PhD.

February 22: Special Topics in Couple Counselling: Infidelity, Ambivalence and Separation. For practitioners looking to develop their skills in working with couples who present with common and often challenging relationship problems, specifically in areas of infidelity, ambivalence and separation issues.

February 28: Social Work Grief and Loss Professional Development Group. This group is for all social workers who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in the area of grief, loss and bereavement.

March 19: Recognising, Nurturing, Strengthening the Survivor Self. With facilitators Pamela Trotman and Leisha Townson.

April 27: An Introduction to Narrative Therapy and Mental Health: A Theoretical and Skills-Based Approach. Presented by Josie McSkimming.

Large practitioner room

Small practitioner room

Seminar room


AROUND AASW

North Queensland Branch

The 2011 North Queensland and Queensland Conference was a significant highlight and achievement for both Queensland branches. The third biennial conference was held in November, in Townsville, which was identified by members as the preferred conference destination, and not just to have the beautiful Magnetic Island as the venue for the Official Conference Dinner. “Townsville was chosen partly in recognition of the fact that social work practitioners, academics, and students live, study and work not only in metropolitan areas but also in rural and remote communities throughout our state,” said Susan Hunt, North Queensland Branch President, and Queensland Branch President Judith Oliver.

Conference attendees were engaged by keynote speakers, papers and workshops delivered from reputable academics, practitioners, consumers and carers – some of whom were local and others who travelled from Singapore, New Zealand and most States and Territories in Australia. Keynote speakers included Dorothy Savage, a respected Elder of the Bindal Group – the Traditional Custodians of the Townsville area with the Wulgurukaba people, who is an Indigenous Student Support Officer within the Department of Social Work and Community Welfare at JCU. Professor Tan Ngoh Tiong, the Dean of Human Development and Social Services at SIM University in Singapore and Co-chair of the Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work, delivered “A framework for international Social Work response to disaster”. Associate Professor in the School of Human Services and Social Work at Griffin University Donna McAuliffe gave a reflection of reviewing the AASW Code of Ethics.

“The Conference represents an important opportunity for the social work profession to showcase the innovative, creative and high quality work being undertaken by its members throughout Queensland and further afield – work that often does not receive the recognition it deserves,” said the branch Presidents.

For the first time, participants had the opportunity to contribute to bursaries for students and others to attend the conference who may otherwise have not been able to attend. The generosity of many enabled several participants to be offered bursaries and participate in the conference. Given the conference theme of social justice and human rights, this conference also provided opportunities for consumers, carers and practitioners from other fields of practice to participate.

Conference highlights the role of social work in achieving social justice and human rights

Professor Tan Ngoh Tiong presented at the 2011 North Queensland and Queensland Conference

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AROUND AASW

Northern Territory Branch

With just over 100 members, the Northern Territory is our smallest branch, but it also arguably has the biggest heart. The small branch based in the Top End proves good things can come in small packages, with as passionate, committed and active membership as any.

Despite being spread across the Territory from Darwin to Katherine to Alice Springs, Northern Territory branch members are a unique and active social work community. At the end of November 2011, the NT Branch had the largest increase in membership of any AASW branch, with an increase of 35 per cent. This is testament to its importance to social workers living in the vast Territory including in many remote areas. It is also a strong incentive for the branch to continue to provide and improve services to the growing membership.

The size of the Branch sometimes makes it difficult to provide the level of services that the larger Branches provide, but it endeavours to be useful for its own members and cater to the unique issues of its membership, who are contributing greatly to the profession in the Territory. The NT Branch committee deserve to be acknowledged for their hard work, having been without a Branch President since October last year. In particular, Vice-President Vikki Martin (who is also very busy as our CPD representative) has made an outstanding contribution.

Each year, the NT Branch presents the Mary Moylan Award to commemorate and celebrate the life and work of Ms Mary Moylan. The Award recognises the dedication and achievement of Northern Territory Social Workers. In 2011, the Award was presented to Dr Deborah West. Her nomination highlighted that “Deborah does not just talk about social justice she initiates research, discussion and partnerships that build on the strengths of our local area and our people to help achieve social justice and this has resulted in the real and tangible changes”.

The NT Branch has come up with innovative ways to overcome the challenge of distance and give as many members as possible the opportunity to participate.

The Branch AGM was held in October in Darwin, and for the first time it was accessible by video conference to Katherine and Alice Springs. Sixty-five people were able to participate in the AGM, and listen to guest speakers, including Christine Fejo-King, who presented her thesis “Talking Kinship: A Study into How the Kinship System of the First Australians can Inform Social Work Theory and Practice”.

As our membership continues to grow and attract members from across the Top End, the Northern Territory Branch aims to continue to be at the heart of social work in the Territory.

Small branch, big heart

Kylie Stothers, Alex Jackson, Bernadette Butler, Cheryl Morris, Rose Hunt and Margaret Massey at the Katherine Christmas party.

Preeti Kotwal at the 2011 AGM

Sue Moore at the 2011 AGM


AROUND AASW

Queensland Branch

Still fresh in the minds of many Australians are the series of floods that hit Australia in December 2010 and early 2011. The floods, primarily in Queensland, forced the evacuation of thousands of people, with damage to homes and workplaces, and loss of life. Many thousands of Queenslanders were affected, including members of the AASW.

In difficult times such as these, communities often band together to support each other. The AASW community was no different. The AASW Queensland branch started 2011 with members heavily involved in flood and cyclone recovery.

The Branch distributed information on behalf of Queensland Government flood recovery response to assist in the coordination of AASW members wishing to assist in the recovery effort. The number of members willing to volunteer their time to clean up and in a professional sense was exceptional and demonstrated a strong community spirit. The Branch also created specific training opportunities for its members to assist them support people with the recovery process and mental health issues.

“Friends, neighbours and strangers have come out of the woodwork to help, and the need will be with us for a very long time,” Queensland Branch Office Manager Storm Griffin said.

Some AASW members took leadership roles, including Queensland Branch member Johnny Atman who was in Theodore working as a social worker as part of the crisis response team. Mr Atman was interviewed in the Central Telegraph to help people to understand their emotional and mental recovery, as well as give tips to cope with this process.

“The antidote to these experiences is to recognise and acknowledge the shift in their [flood victims] thinking/feeling, in themselves and others, to seek to dialogue about it with a professional or someone close to them,” Mr Atman said in the article.

As well as responding to the immediate impact, social workers will continue to play an important role in the future as Queenslanders rebuild their homes and lives, and cope with loss.

Queensland social workers show community spirit in flood response

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AROUND AASW

South Australian Branch

One would only need to glance at the South Australian Branch’s 2012 calendar to see that there is no shortage of activities and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities for South Australian AASW members to attend. Supporting members’ professional development has long been a high priority for the South Australian Branch. The dedicated South Australian Branch CPD Committee works hard throughout the year to provide a high quality program of activities that meet members’ CPD needs.

Throughout 2011, the SA Branch continued its popular Northern and Southern Networking Breakfasts, Peer Skill-Share group, the Evidence Based Practice group and the Students and New Graduates group.

CPD workshops have covered a range of professional topics catering to members’ varying work and interests. These included everything from using meditation, support for private practitioners, learning from consumers and service users, loneliness and older people, and the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan.

“In highlighting the importance of continuing professional development through the presentation of a high quality and broad ranging CPD program that is accessible to all members, we are affirming the high standards to which social workers are committed,” said Branch President Sue King.

For several years, the Branch has identified the importance of addressing the CPD needs of rural and remote members who often work in isolation from other social workers.

As a member of the South Australian CPD Committee, Arlette Beeltiz, based in Lameroo, has been able to help advise the Committee on issues of rural social workers particularly relating to CPD. By sharing her experiences as a rural social worker, including that she would have to drive more than 200km to attend most CPD events, Arlette has helped the Committee to understand what is needed to provide better access to CPD.

The CPD Committee is now very committed to making CPD more accessible to rural social workers by providing several full day CPD events or two short workshops on the same day for those who have to travel some distance. The Branch is also taking steps to provide some online CPD, and has trialled organising events in rural areas, such as the Supervision course in Port Augusta in partnership with Centacare.

The Branch recognises that access and participation is vital in highlighting the importance of ongoing professional development, so in 2011 invited students from local universities to participate in a Margaret Morrell workshop at minimal cost.

The 2012 CPD calendar is now being finalised and is shaping up to be as full and interesting as previous years for social workers and students both in rural and metropolitan South Australia.

South Australian Branch focus on professional development for all membersSnapshot of activities in 2012

This is just a snapshot of the South Australian CPD program for 2012 and some details may be subject to change. More information and updated details can be found on the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events.

January 10: Evidence Based Practice Group. 6pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

February 1: Breakfast Networking (North). Catch up with your colleagues for breakfast, 7.30am at Bakehouse Cafe, Philip Highway, Elizabeth.

February 7: Evidence Based Practice Group. EB Health care: An inclusive approach. 6pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

February 15: Breakfast Networking (City). Catch up with your colleagues for breakfast. 7.30am at La Piazza, Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide.

February 21/22/23 (TBC): ACSW (Stephen Brand) and Advanced Practice (Peter Munn). 6pm–7.30pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

March (date TBC): Starting your own Private Practice. Hear a panel of experienced social workers share their experiences in private practice. 6pm–7.30pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

March 20: World Social Work Day Come and join your colleagues to celebrate International Social Work Day for

breakfast and hear from Tom Calma. 7.30am at Adelaide Pavilion, Adelaide.

April 2–4: Supervision Course 1. With Margaret Morrell. 9am–3.30pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

May 22: CPD Workshop: The Body and Trauma Workshop. For practitioners interested in exploring a range of practical body-oriented techniques. 9.30am–4.30pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

August 20: CPD workshop: Vicarious Traumatisation. As a senior practitioner, Angela Powell will explain how Yarrow Place manages vicarious traumatisation as a workplace. 9.30am–12.30pm at EDC, Hindmarsh.

October 25: AASWSA Annual General Meeting.

November (date TBC): CPD Workshop. David Howe.


AROUND AASW

Tasmanian Branch

Shared aims and principals have lead to a sharing of knowledge and resources in the positive relationships between AASW Branches and universities across the country. With common goals of education, training and promoting the profession, these relationships are a natural development.

One great example of this is the unique relationship between the Tasmanian Branch and the University of Tasmania (UTAS). The University of Tasmania offers the only AASW accredited social work degree in Tasmania, and many AASW members in Tasmania already have connections with the university, either through education or employment.

Both the university’s social work department and the AASW Branch aim to provide support to social workers and social work students across the state, and are able to work together to provide more opportunities for social workers regardless of whether they are based in the north or south of Tasmania.

The Branch and the university have collaborated on a number of events and activities well-attended by AASW members and the university cohort, including Continuing Professional Development, networking, social functions and seminars. In March 2011, the AASW contributed to World Social Work Day celebrations at UTAS campuses, and in October they worked together on a conference titled “Challenges and Choices: Social Work in a Changing World”.

There is a strong culture of mutual promotion for events and activities, and often a section of the Branch newsletter is dedicated to information for UTAS students.

Through this partnership, AASW members have also had the opportunity to access experts and academics from UTAS and around the world. In May, over 90 social work practitioners, educators and students, came together over two days to hear Professor Jim Ife speak at a talk “A Future for Social Work: Reasserting Humanity and Democracy”. Professor Ife is a well-known and internationally respected author in social

work, community development and human rights. He is also one of the founding staff of the social work course in Tasmania.

To encourage excellence in social work as well as connect with students, the AASW holds the AASW Student Social Worker of the Year awards for excellence in fieldwork and academic performance by a fourth year UTAS student. This presentation is made at the university on World Social Work Day in March each year. The most recent recipient of the award was Alice Fitzpatrick, who received her award at a special presentation at the Jim Ife seminar in Hobart.

The Tasmanian Branch will continue to develop its partnership with UTAS and develop innovative initiatives to promote the profession and create opportunities for further education, professional development and support for AASW members and the wider social work community in Tasmania.

Tasmanian Branch working with university for the future of social work

Jim Ife speaking to AASW members and others in May

Tony HoweChristine Fejo-King

Janet Whelan

NATIONAL BULLETIN28

AROUND AASW

Victorian Branch

The Victorian Branch is a leader when it comes to establishing and running successful practice groups. The branch currently has 11 active practice groups with a number of other groups currently considering establishing as formal AASW practice groups. The groups allow members to focus on a specific area of practice in which they work or have a particular interest.

“Practice groups are a key to providing relevant services and opportunities for engagement to members as ours is a large branch with a diverse membership base,” said Victorian Branch President David Rose.

Current active practice groups in Victoria include: Social Work Aged Service Group; Association of Mental Health Workers (AMHSW); Health Social Workers Director’s Group; Cancer Social Work Victoria; Refugee & Asylum Seeker Practice Group; Rural Social Workers Group; School Social Workers Group; Sexual Assault; Social Work Education Practice Group; Singapore Melbourne Health Social Work Network; and The Geelong Counselling Social Work Network.

Practice group events and notices cover many pages in the Victorian Branch newsletter. Some of the larger practice groups are very active in providing professional development opportunities and have organised a number of conferences and events in 2011. One example of a successful CPD event was the free all-day CPD accredited Ethics Forum in May organised by the Victorian Branch Ethics Group.

A major event in the 2011 calendar was the Biennial National Rural Remote Social Work Conference held by the Rural Social Workers

Action Practice Group in Ballarat in July, with two days of great keynote speakers and networking events.

“This conference is a key event for rural social workers to catch up, and have a great peer support experience. The conference is geared to the practical application of social work skills but there is also a good stream of research based presentations,” said RSWAPG Convenor, Peter Quinn.

Another practice group highlight was the Mental Health Social Work Conference held in October 2011 by the Association of Mental Health Workers. The Conference was a huge success with a two-day program covering a range of Mental Health topics with expert speakers and discussion sessions. Recordings of some talks given at the Conference have also been made available to all AASW members on the AASW website.

Victorian Branch members are also active in many other capacities, including forming smaller project groups. The Support for Migrant Social Workers project group is a collective of very enthusiastic members working to improve adaptation experiences of overseas trained social workers and international social work students in Australia.

“We are working on identifying the support needs of migrant social workers and developing packages of support to meet those needs,” said group member, Maria Groner.

Victorian AASW members continue to find innovative ways to effect change and share knowledge in areas of interest to them and of benefit to other AASW members and the wider profession.

Victorian Branch leads the way with active special interest groupsSnapshot of activities in 2012

This is just a snapshot of the Victorian Branch CPD program for 2012 and some details may be subject to change. More information and updated details can be found on the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events.

February 8–10: Introduction to Supervision.

February 25: Trauma Assessment and Psychometric Testing. Facilitators Nada Miocevic & Susan Morwood.

March 1–2: Fighting Fair: Mediation & Conflict Resolution Training. Facilitator Scott Dutton.

March 14: “No Respect, No Relationship”. Young People and Family Violence – Working with Victims to create thrivers! Facilitator Donna Zander.

May 11: Working well with Stepfamilies. Facilitator Daniela Zimmermann.

June 16–17: Working with Children, Families & Parents. Facilitator Ron Ingram.

July 27: Supporting Victims of Indictable Sexual Assault through the Court Process (criminal matters). Enable participants’ to advocate effectively on behalf of clients. Facilitators are OPP staff SW and lawyers.

August 24: Anger and PTSD – Discharging the Key Emotion! Facilitators Tony McHugh (psychol.) and Donna Zander (social worker).

September 28: Pubs, Pokies, Pills and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Facilitators Donna Zander (social worker) and Maureen Peck (psychol).

October 17: “P.L.A.Y” – Play, Laughter, Art, Animals & You. Facilitator Donna Zander.

Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 5-day Supervision Course. Victorian Branch events


AROUND AASW

Western Australian Branch

More than 150 friends, colleagues, honoured guests and Award finalists gathered at the University of Western Australia for a truly amazing night celebrating the achievements of local WA social workers at the 2011 WA Social Worker of the Year Awards.

The WA Social Worker of the Year Awards was established in 2009 by the successful partnership of the AASW, the University of Western Australia, and Curtin University in an attempt to raise the public perception of the Social Work profession.

The WA Social Worker of the Year Award is an inspiring celebration of contributions social workers make to the community, whether it be through their work with individuals, families and communities or systemically in policy, education and organisations.

At the 2011 Awards, WA Minister Robyn McSweeney opened the proceedings, on behalf of the Premier of WA, and the evening continued with inspirational stories about the work of all the Awards finalists.

The awards on offer included the Richmond Fellowship ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Award’, KPMG ‘Agent of Change Award’, Department for Child Protection ‘Head, Heart and Hands Award’, GESB ‘Rising Star Award’ and Edith Cowan University ‘Rural and Remote Practitioner Award’.

The major award, the 2011 WA Social Worker of the Year was awarded to Felicity Creagh, who also won the Rising Star Award. Felicity works for the Department for Child Protection in Western Australia. Felicity was described in the nomination as “an energetic and enthusiastic social worker who is described as an inspiring leader and highly professional.”

The nomination highlighted Felicity’s passion for helping young mothers and her ability to provide constant encouragement has helped change the lives of many young families. Felicity excels in the area of infant mental health and exploring the process of attachment in child protection practice. Her evidence-based, creative, reflective and child-focused work is well respected and acknowledged by co-workers.

The award was presented by the 2010 WA Social Worker of the Year, Glenda Kickett. Glenda who is executive manager of Djooraminda Centrecare WA, was commended on her innovative management and practice to introduce new family support programs to the organisation.

The Awards are organised by a committee, with an esteemed group of judges drawn from the profession, the sponsor group and consumers volunteering to select finalists and winners from nominations.

“I believe it is very important that we acknowledge the members of our profession and publicly recognise the often unrecognised stories of caring and courage which our colleagues demonstrate,” said Jan Stewart, Patron of the WA Social Work Awards.

The Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge dedicated social workers who have made a real difference to the lives of Western Australians. It also demonstrates to the wider community how the profession of social work makes such a positive contribution to our society.

Celebrating the work and contribution of WA social workers


This is just a snapshot of the Western Australian Branch CPD program for 2012 and some details may be subject to change. More information and updated details can be found on the AASW website www.aasw.asn.au/events.

February 22: WA Branch Mental Health Practice Group Symposium: Crafting an evidence base for social work practice – What counts as evidence?

March 15: Annual Grace Vaughan Memorial Lecture. Delivered by Professor Donna Chung, UWA Professor of Social Work.

June (date TBC): WA Branch Mental Health Practice Group Symposium: Cross cultural issues and mental health.

October 3: Workshop: The Emotionally Intelligent Social Worker. Presented by visiting Professor David Howe, Emeritus Professor of Social Work, University of East Anglia.

2011 WA Social Worker of the Year Awards

Jan Stewart, CEO of Lotterywest and Social Worker of the Year Patron with 2011 Social Worker of the Year winner Felicity Creagh

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AROUND AASW

As an AASW member you would have recently received your notice of the company’s Annual Report for 2010–2011 (the actual copy is available on the website) and seen the scope, breadth and detailed work that was undertaken by all the national programs, committees, branches and, of course, the Board.

One of the ‘engine room’ committees of the AASW is the Board Governance Committee whose work largely takes place in the background and about which relatively little is known. In this short article you will learn a little more about our committee and how it is important to you and all members of our AASW.

NFP governance

Governance for organisations in the not-for-profit sector relates to the systems and processes concerned with ensuring the overall direction, effectiveness, supervision and accountability of an organistion.1

In practice, this means that the Board Governance Committee is obligated to:1. define governance roles (of the Board,

individual directors, the President, the Company Secretary and the senior management),

2. improve Board processes (such as meetings, decision processes, Board papers,

3. undertake governance functions (eg strategic planning, risk management, and

4. ensure continuing improvement (including Board induction and evaluation).2

These four elements come together in a governance model which when implemented successfully results in improving the performance of the current and all future AASW Boards – for the benefit of all members and our profession as a whole.

You are welcome and encouraged to access the Board Governance Policy Manual which can be found on the Members Documents’ page on the AASW website. A scan of its contents will give you a clearer idea about some of the work that not only the Governance Committee does but also that of the CEO/COO’s role, other committees, Board members and staff responsibilities.

The Governance Committee people

I would like to thank members of the previous Governance Committee and staff with whom I worked and from whom I learnt so much in 2010–2011, namely Vittorio Cintio, Robyn Mason, David Rose, Helen Hopper, Kandie Allen- Kelly and Linden Vine (secretarial support), and welcome Helen’s and David’s return to the new committee together with Cindy Smith who has enthusiastically joined the Governance Committee for 2011–2012. Peter Badenhorst’s support of the work of the Committee is greatly appreciated as has been the very active involvement of Wayne Hart to whom we reluctantly say farewell on the eve of his departure from the AASW.

Thank you Wayne and all Governance Committee members past and present.

Board Governance – Staying on the railsBy Sue Cumming - Convenor, Board Governance Committee

Sue Cumming – Convenor, Board Governance Committee

1 Cornforth CJ, Edwards C. Good Governance: Developing effective Board and management relationships in public and voluntary organisations. CIMA Publishing; 1998.

2 Fishel D, The Book of the Board – Effective governance for non-profit organisations (2nd ed). Federation Press: Sydney; 2008.

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website for more information and to sign-up online or call 1300 733 420 and quote ‘Member Benefits’AASW Member Benefits Tel: 1300 304 551

Email: [email protected]/aasw

Best Western Australasia

Best Western Hotels have more than 200 properties across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, you’re sure to find a Best Western that’s perfect for you.

Best Western also offers members a Rewards Loyalty Program providing you with a fortune in rewards including free accommodation and room upgrades. Members receive 10% off the best available rate at Best Western Australasian properties.

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website for more information on Best Western properties, locations and booking details or call 131 779 and quote Member Benefits Corporate ID Number 01524930.

Exclusive Car Rental rates with Thrifty

Members have access to exclusive rates on Australia’s most diverse range of cars, trucks, buses, 4WDs & luxury vehicles.

Members also receive substantially reduced Compulsory Premium Protection on cars and trucks only applicable when booking on your exclusive member rates.

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website for more information, online quotes and booking details or call Thrifty on 1300 367 227 and quote your Corporate Discount (CD) Number: 4908003565.

Chartis Travel Insurance

Chartis travel insurance offers you great travel insurance, at a great price. Members save 30% on Chartis full priced premiums.

You will be protected for:

• Unlimited overseas medical and hospital expenses • Cover for lost or stolen luggage such as your camera or your iPod • Cover for trip cancellations and flight delays • Access to Travel Guard pre trip and emergency assistance • And lots more!

Chartis also offer Annual, Multi-trip travel insurance options for the frequent traveller.

Visit your AASW Member Benefits Website for more information and to purchase your insurance online.

*Terms & conditions apply.

Dell makes computing easy – like it should be!

Dell, the world’s leading computer systems company, is offering members great savings on selected Dell systems and up to 10%^ off Dell flat panel monitors, printers and more!

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website for more information, to get your special members coupon code and to get the right PC for you.

^Dell’s coupon terms and conditions apply.

Oracle Telecom

For all your home phone, mobile and internet services choose Oracle Telecom, an innovative, Australian owned Telecommunications company committed to assisting you gain the most from your telephone, mobile and internet services by providing exceptional support and sound advice at competitive rates.

Offer 1 Transfer your fixed line Home Telephone* and or Home Internet* services to Oracle Telecom and receive your first two (2) Months Line Rental and/or Internet Access Fee FREE OF CHARGE!

Offer 2 Transfer your personal Mobile Phone** service to Oracle Telecom and receive either a $150 CREDIT on your Oracle Telecom account OR your first two (2) months mobile access fee FREE OF CHARGE - it’s your choice!

PLUS – for every referral that becomes a customer of Oracle Telecom, we will credit your Oracle account with $50 as a Thank You!

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website for more information or contact Oracle Telecom on email: [email protected] or telephone

1300 660 153 and quote Reference MB – AASW to take up this exclusive member offer and start saving money today!

*Minimum 24 month contract and standard call rates apply. ** Applies to BYO mobile handset plans on a 24 month contract only.

Movie & Theme Park Tickets

The Member Benefits Box Office delivers great savings on pre-purchased cinema tickets to Hoyts, Village, Greater Union, Palace, Reading, Dendy, Imax and more and fantastic savings on Queensland theme park tickets and Melbourne attraction tickets.

Visit your AASW Member Benefits website to purchase your tickets online or phone your order through to the Member Benefits Box Office on (03) 9822 9966 or 1800 352 600 outside of Melbourne and don’t forget to quote “Member Benefits”.

The Member Benefits Box Office is owned and operated by SPENDLESS.

A A S W M E M B E R B E N E F I T SMembers have access to a range of benefits through their AASW Member Benefits Program.

Below is a selection of benefits that may be of interest to you.

Since its establishment, the Association has upheld its objectives to:• Promote the profession of social work• Enhance the public and professional recognition and identity of social work• Establish, monitor and improve practice and ethical standards• Contribute to the development of social work knowledge and research• Develop, review and accredit the education standards for social workers• Advocate for the pursuit of social justice and changes to social structures and policies

in order to promote social inclusion and redress social disadvantage• Promote and facilitate members’ professional development and life-long learning• Represent and advocate for the interests of members as a group.

At the beginning of 2012, the AASW membership stands at over 6500 social workers. Today, with our nine branches and vibrant community of national committees and practice groups, further supporting the work of the Association, the AASW aims to caters for the professional needs and interests of the growing membership base with their varied working fields, employment and locations.

Australian Association of Social Workers

Established 1947

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is the professional representative body of Social Workers. The AASW was formed as a

national association in 1947 with the federation of several state branches which had already been established. Throughout its 65 year history, the AASW has supported its membership through a

changing profession and world.

_______________________________

Go to www.aasw.asn.au for more information about joining your professional association.