AASW position statement – registration of social workers

AASW position statement – registration of social workers

26 May 2026

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) recognises that registration of social workers is a significant issue for both the profession and the communities we serve.

The AASW has previously advocated for national registration under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS), recognising registration as a mechanism to strengthen professional standards, enhance accountability, protect the public, and improve recognition of social work.

You may be aware that the Transforming Health Professions Regulation in Australia: Independent Review Final Report (Complexity Review) was released by Health Ministers on 12 September 2025. The report sets out four transformation directions, supported by 26 actions to be carried out by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), governments, the Health Workforce Taskforce (HWT) and other key stakeholders.

Health Ministers have now met and issued a communique on 1 May 2026 outlining their response to the actions outlined in the report. All actions have now been considered by Health Ministers.

The communique can be accessed here.

A new phase of engagement 

The current AASW Board was elected on a platform committed to leading a national discussion on key professional issues, including registration. The Board acknowledges that registration is a complex matter affecting social workers across diverse roles and practice settings. 

The AASW is committed to ensuring that future directions on registration are informed by broad consultation and meaningful engagement with members and stakeholders. 

Representing the whole profession 

AASW members work across a wide range of practice areas, including health, mental health, child protection, disability, justice, community development, policy, research and  education. 

The Board is broadening the registration discussion to reflect the full scope of social work practice. Any consideration of registration must recognise the diversity of the profession and the varied contexts in which social workers operate. 

To support this, the AASW will strengthen engagement through its state and territory branches and consult with members, governments, regulators and key stakeholders. 

Collaboration and leadership 

South Australia is currently the only jurisdiction with legislated registration of social workers. The AASW will work constructively with the Social Workers Registration Board of South Australia to share learnings and inform national discussion. 

The AASW remains committed to protecting the public, strengthening professional standards, and supporting high-quality social work practice. We will continue to lead a transparent and inclusive national conversation on registration that reflects the voice and diversity of the profession.