AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program (Melbourne)

Step Into the Future of Social Work Leadership

The AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program is more than a leadership course. It is your springboard into the next chapter of your professional journey. Designed for social workers who are ready to lead with purpose, courage, and impact, this five-week, high-impact experience will help you unlock your full leadership potential.

Through a dynamic blend of immersive in-person learning, collaborative group projects, and expert-led reflection, you will grow the confidence and capability to lead teams, influence systems, and inspire change. You will build meaningful connections with like-minded professionals and engage with some of the sector’s most respected leaders, all while staying deeply grounded in the values that define our profession.

This is your opportunity to grow as a leader, shape the future of social work, and join a network of changemakers driving lasting impact in communities across Australia.

Program Details

Over five weeks, you’ll take part in a rich learning experience that includes:

• On-demand, self-paced learning to build knowledge, deepen reflection, and prepare for the 3-day in person workshop in Melbourne.
• An in-person immersive three-day workshop, held in Melbourne where you’ll connect with peers, learn from senior leaders, and work through real-world leadership challenges.
• Networking opportunities, including a dedicated networking dinner and the opportunity to meet industry leaders
• A collaborative group project, giving you the chance to apply your learning in practice.
• Self-reflection and reflective practice, supporting you to critically examine your leadership style, values, and impact on others.
• Constructive feedback, helping you refine and strengthen your leadership practice.
• Certificate of Completion and a digital badge to share and showcase your achievement.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

• Critically evaluate diverse leadership approaches and powerfully articulate how these align with and advance social work values
• Demonstrate inclusive, culturally responsive leadership that strengthens social work identity and fosters equity across teams and communities
• Navigate complexity with integrity by applying ethical decision-making in challenging leadership contexts
• Lead with adaptability and resilience in the face of crisis, rapid change, and systems-level complexity
• Define and own their unique leadership approach, supported by a sustainable leadership plan for long-term impact in the social work sector.

Who should attend?

The AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program is designed for leaders who:

• Have 5+ years of leadership experience in social work or related practice.
• Are seeking to strengthen their leadership identity and expand their influence in the sector.
• Bring valuable and diverse experiences - professional, cultural, and personal—that will enrich the peer learning community.
• Are curious about different leadership approaches and how to create greater impact in their workplace and the broader community.
• Are committed to reflective practice and leading with integrity, grounded in social work values.
• Are seeking a hands-on, applied learning experience that blends theory with real-world practice.
• Are willing to be challenged, to contribute actively, and to commit time, effort, and openness across the 5-week program.

Your commitment

The program is designed to fit alongside professional responsibilities, while ensuring depth of learning and engagement.

In-person Melbourne venue information

Venue

The three-day in-person program in Melbourne will be held at the QT Melbourne, 133 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Dates

Wednesday 11 - Friday 13 March 2026

Pricing

Your registration will cover the full 5-week program, including the three-day in-person workshop in Melbourne, with catering provided (morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea), a networking dinner, and closing networking lunch. Overnight accommodation is not included.

Apply Now

Take the next step in your leadership journey.

Apply now to secure your place in the Melbourne 2026 cohort of the AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program.

This is your opportunity to invest in your growth, strengthen your impact, and connect with other emerging leaders across the social work profession.

https://www.aasw.asn.au/norma-parker-leadership-program/