Grow your career and amplify your impact in the community.
Becoming a member of Community Work Australia gives you the support and education you need to strengthen your practice every day. No matter the stage of your career, get practical advice and ethical standards you can rely on.
Discover the benefits of a professional membership
Grow your skills
Meet your CPD requirements by accessing endorsed training programs and workshops across Australia and online.
Get expert support
From ethical issues to workplace bullying, we can provide professional guidance when you need it the most.
Stay connected and informed
Keep your industry knowledge current by reading our curated newsletter and accessing the resource database.
Shape the profession
Members have influence and a say in issues that affect the community work industry.
Discounted police checks
Get fast, discounted police checks performed by the National Crime Check (NCC) through your membership.
Get professional insurance
Members are covered under an insurance policy that provides professional indemnity and public and product liability cover.
Be recognised as an ethical professional
Demonstrate your dedication to the highest industry standards from day one. A Community Work Australia membership shows employers your commitment to our approved ethical guidelines, ensuring you maintain and provide services that positively impact the community.
Community work professionals are eligible for membership
To become a member, you must have completed a Community Work Australia accredited course or hold a relevant diploma or higher education qualification with post qualification industry experience.
A relevant qualification is one which adequately prepares graduates to perform community work in Australia. It should be a diploma or a higher education qualification specialising in community or human services, or specific fields of practice such as youth work, mental health, applied social science, community development, alcohol and other drugs, disability services and counselling.
The application process
Create an account
Create a login to get started and access the membership application form.
Fill out the form
Fill the online form. Applications take between 2-4 weeks to process.
Upload documents
Upload all documentation. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Submit
Submit your application. If approved, you will receive 12 months of membership.
Add profile
Your profile will be added to our public listing to help people verify your professional standing.
Become a member
By joining an organisation that shares your values, you can play a proactive role in bringing about a fair and socially just Australia.
Hear from our members
From study to practice, Community Work Australia has supported its members across Australia. Read about their experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
What is expected of Community Work Australia members?
All members are expected to abide by Community Work Australia's Code of Ethics. Participation in networking and training events is not mandatory, but encouraged for professional development.
What does the membership cost?
Review membership fees and costs here.
What documents do I need to apply?
You need to upload supporting documents when applying for a membership. They must be high-resolution colour scans of original documents. Photos, low-quality, blurry or cropped scans will not be accepted. You can find the document checklist here.
How can I make the most of my Community Work Australia membership?
Your Community Work Australia professional membership is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. To make the most of it, take full advantage of ongoing professional development opportunities. Stay informed through member-only publications and resources that keep you connected to the latest in the sector. Use your voting rights to shape the future of the profession, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support when you need it.
Is the membership fee tax-deductible?
A membership with a peak body like Community Work Australia is tax-deductible as long as it is related to your current employment. For accurate and up-to-date information, read the Australian Taxation Office’s guidelines on tax deductions for professional memberships and accreditations.
Do you offer organisational memberships?
No, Community Work Australia only offers individual memberships for professionals and students.
Can I be a member of Community Work Australia and other professional associations?
Yes, you can. We welcome you to join Community Work Australia even if you are a member of other professional organisations or societies.
Can I be a member if I’m located overseas?
Membership is only open to Australian citizens or permanent residents.
Questions? Contact us
Have questions about your membership? Get in touch, and our team can answer your queries.