AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program
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.
Why you should do this program
"Transform your leadership potential into lasting influence and build the confidence to lead the profession into the future."
The AASW Norma Parker NextGen Leadership Program is a transformative investment in your leadership future. In a profession that urgently needs bold, values-driven leaders, this program is your launchpad. It connects you with the right people, the right knowledge and the right opportunities to elevate your impact and amplify your voice.
You will be surrounded by future leaders of social work—professionals who are driven to make change happen. The connections you build will last long after the program ends, forming a trusted network of peers who support, challenge and grow with you. This is more than a learning experience. It is a leadership community, united by purpose and committed to advancing the profession.
Led by one of the most respected facilitators in the sector and backed by the AASW’s legacy of excellence, this program offers more than theory. It offers the confidence, clarity and practical tools to lead with integrity and purpose.
If you are serious about stepping into your leadership potential and doing it alongside the best, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for.
Core themes of the program
Leading with Social Work Values
Grounding leadership in the ethics, principles, and identity of the profession to ensure decisions and practices advance equity, justice, and impact.
Confident and Capable Leadership
Build confidence, clarity, and capability to lead teams, influence organisations, and strengthen leadership presence across the sector.
Reflective and Inclusive Practice
Deepening reflective practice, fostering cultural responsiveness, and ensuring inclusive leadership that respects and amplifies diverse voices.
Strategic and Adaptive Thinking
Develop strategic insight and adaptability to navigate complexity, make sound decisions, and lead effectively through change or uncertainty.
Sustainable Leadership Growth
Define your leadership identity, embrace feedback, and create a sustainable plan for continued growth and positive sector-wide impact.
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
Week 1
On demand, self-paced activities
Week 2
Meet your project group
Week 3
3 day in-person leadership workshop
Week 4
Project and individual work
Week 5
Live-online presentation
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
Meet your facilitator
Carolyn Cousins, BSW, MSW, Med (Adult), Dip Mgt, MSc (App. Neuroscience), GAICD, is an accomplished social worker, educator, and leader with extensive experience in trauma, mental health, and organisational leadership across Australia and the UK. She has held specialist, management, and senior leadership roles, including Assistant Director of Postgraduate Education at the Tavistock and Portman Clinic in London, where she shaped postgraduate clinical education at a national level.
Since returning to Australia, Carolyn has led the development of leadership frameworks and programs for major Government and Non-Government organisations, including HETI’s People Management Skills Program, the Next Generation Leadership Program, and the NSW Police Force’s leadership programs. A recognised Subject Matter Expert in Clinical Supervision, she has collaborated with AASW on supervision programs and published widely on clinical practice and leadership. She brings together expertise in social work, adult education, and applied neuroscience to create inspiring, evidence-informed learning experiences that empower professionals to lead with confidence and integrity
Participant profile
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.
| Dates | Focus | Commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Starting 23 February | Orientation, leadership fundamentals, personal reflection | 4 hrs self-paced modules |
| 4 March 11-12pm (AEDT) | Live-online, welcome and meet your group | 1 hr meet your project group live-online |
| 11, 12 & 13 March | Three-day immersive workshops, guest speakers, networking opportunities | 3 days in person (Melbourne) |
| 16 – 24 March | Group project development and leadership framework | 3 hrs collaborative work 2 hrs individual work |
| 25/26 March 9am-1pm (AEDT) | Live-online presentations | 1 hr preparation and delivery – time to be allocated |
In-person Melbourne venue information
- 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
Apply today to access our exclusive introductory pricing, available for a limited time.
Your registration covers the full 5-week program, including the three day in-person leadership workshop in Melbourne, with catering provided (morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea), and a closing networking lunch. Overnight accommodation is not included.
All prices are in AUD and include GST.
Introductory Pricing
-
Non-members
$3,470
Standard Pricing
-
Non-members
$4,100
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.
To complete your application, you’ll need:
- Current CV (up to date and no more than 4 pages)
- Recommendation letter from your employer or supervisor, outlining your leadership journey and key areas for ongoing development
The application form takes around 10 minutes to complete.
Applications are reviewed as they’re received — places are limited, so apply early.
Downloadable Templates:
Contact Us
Please contact the AASW CPD Team at [email protected] with any questions regarding the program.
FAQs
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
This program will contribute 28 CPD hours under Category 2 Skills & Knowledge.
Who is Norma Parker?
Norma Parker (1906–2004) is widely regarded as the founder of the social work profession in Australia. After studying social work in the United States, she returned to Australia in the 1930s with a vision to establish a structured, professional discipline grounded in social justice and community service.
Parker played a pivotal role in developing social work education, establishing training programs, and advocating for professional standards. She was instrumental in founding the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) in 1946, ensuring a national voice for the profession.
Her legacy is one of leadership, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of individuals and communities. The Norma Parker Lecture, held annually by the AASW, honours her contribution and continues to inspire social workers across Australia.
Future Program Dates
If you can’t join us in Melbourne, Click Here to submit your interest for future program updates.
Contact Us
Please contact the AASW CPD Team at [email protected] with any questions regarding the program.
Payment and Terms & Conditions
By registering for the AASW Leadership Program you agree to our Terms & Conditions.
Cancellations must be made in writing to [email protected]
- 30–15 days before the Program: 50% of the registration fee applies
- 14 days or less before the Program: 100% of the registration fee applies