What We Do
Complaints Management
Ethics Complaints Management Process
The Ethics Complaints Management Process (ECMP) is the AASW’s formal system for receiving and responding to complaints about the alleged unethical practice or behaviour of its members.
The current situation in Australia is that it is not compulsory for Social Workers to be members of their professional association (the AASW). The AASW can only receive complaints about Social Workers who are members of the AASW.
How can I find out if a Social Worker is a member?
Please contact our Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards) or our National Office in Canberra.
How can I find out if someone is ineligible for AASW membership?
Serious breaches of the AASW Code of Ethics may result in a social worker being made ineligible for AASW membership.
A social worker may only be made ineligible for membership of the AASW after a complaint is investigated and determined by a Hearing Panel and/or Appeal Panel, or if a social worker refuses to cooperate with the Ethics Complaints Management Process.
Click here to view the list of social workers who are currently ineligible for AASW membership.
What if the person is not a member?
Our Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards) can provide you with information about alternative dispute resolution options. You are welcome to contact the Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards) via phone or email.
What if the complaint relates to a Family Court matter?
The AASW is prohibited by law from receiving and responding to complaints that relate to proceedings of the Family and Federal Magistrates Courts of Australia. Please read our Information Sheet for more information, and options for resolving your concerns.
Who can I contact to discuss a potential complaint?
Anyone considering making a complaint about a Social Worker is encouraged to consult with the Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards). The By-Laws on Ethics (see link below) sets out how the AASW Ethics Complaints Management Process works. In addition, an Ethics Framework Manual provides more detail on the procedures which are set out in the By-Laws, and is available upon request from the Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards). The Senior Manager can provide you with important information about the complaints process. You are welcome to contact the Senior Manager (Ethics & Standards) via phone or email.