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International Qualifications

International Qualifications Assessment

Welcome to Social Work in Australia! The Australian Association of Social Workers is the official authority for assessment of overseas qualifications in social work, for the purpose of migration and employment in Australia. We also undertake assessment of overseas qualified Social Workers who are Australian citizens or residents and wish to gain AASW membership eligibility for employment purposes. There is no legal registration for Social Workers in Australia, however the AASW is the standard setting body and many positions require eligibility for AASW membership.

    Purpose of International Qualifications Assessment

    To determine if your qualification/s meet the eligibility requirements for migration and/or employment in Australia.
    This is different from membership to the AASW. For further information on membership click here.

    IQA is relevant to

    • Non-Residents with an overseas social work qualification
    • Non-Residents with an Australian AASW Accredited degree in social work
    • Residents with an overseas social work qualification

    English Language Requirement
    Effective 1 August 2009, high-level English language skills are essential to the practice of social work in Australia. All applicants applying to have their qualifications assessed for Skilled Migration or permanent residency and /or employment must provide evidence with their application that they have sufficient English language skills to work as a social worker in an English language environment. More information can be found via the above link.

    Working Holiday
    If you’re coming to Australia for a working holiday and you:
    • DO intend applying for permanent residency in the future please refer to the Non-Resident Information Pack
    • DON’T have any intention of applying for permanent residency in the future please refer to the Resident Information Pack

    Welfare Workers
    Refer to Australian Institute of Welfare and Community Workers

    Fee Schedule

    Effective from 1 July 2009.
    Fees are in Australian Dollars and non-refundable.

    Assessment Fees
    • Australian Non-Residents with overseas qualification/s $850
    • Australian Residents with overseas qualification/s $850
    • Non-Residents with AASW accredited qualification/s from an Australian University $350
    • Non-Residents (who are AASW members) with AASW accredited qualification/s from an Australian University $250

    Appeal Fees
    • Stage 1 Appeals $150
    • Stage 2 Appeals $500

    Appeal Process
    Applicants can appeal assessment decisions.
    Click here for information on the review procedures.

    For more information or to start your assessment

    1. Read Country Assessment Guidelines
    2. Download the:
    OR
    3. Contact our IQA Team if you require assistance