ASWEAS 2024 Version 2 released

ASWEAS 2024 Version 2 released

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) has issued a revised version of the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) 2024.

This revised ASWEAS focuses on strengthening professional accountability and standing in a transparent, effective, and contemporary manner. It reflects a commitment to regulatory excellence that balances support for the higher education sector with robust oversight and assurance mechanisms.

The revision follows negotiations with 16 higher education providers through a formal ACCC collective bargaining process. Information about that process is available on the ACCC website. It was a focused and negotiated process, and not all changes sought were agreed to by the AASW. Several matters have been held for consideration in the comprehensive ASWEAS review planned for 2027.

There is a second component to this notification regarding fees, with negotiations anticipated to conclude by mid to late November.

The 2027 ASWEAS review will provide an opportunity for broad engagement and consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, including higher education providers, students, employers, government, sector partners, academics, social workers, and other interested parties.

The AASW understands that these changes will affect providers differently and is committed to ensuring there is adequate time to implement them. Higher education providers will be required to demonstrate adherence to the revised Standards by the end of May 2027.

Current students and completed qualifications are not affected.

Read the revised Standards, transition information and answers to frequently asked questions:

Read about the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) 2024 and associated documents here.