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Practice Standards

Review of the AASW Practice Standards 2013

The AASW has commenced the review of the AASW Practice Standards 2013. Phillips KPA and Principal Associate Dr Craig McInnis will lead the process with advice from a Review Reference Group and the AASW. The AASW appreciates the need for the revised Standards to be widely accepted and supported by AASW Members, social workers and a wide range of stakeholders. To achieve a high level of consensus, we will conduct a comprehensive consultation process. The approach is based on the assumption that a series of draft versions of the Standards will need to be developed and tested, with multiple and timely opportunities for member and stakeholder input over the duration of the project.

The Review will seek input via:

  • an online survey of members
  • an online forum and feedback from the AASW Member Noticeboard
  • interviews and focus groups.

A Consultation Paper has been developed.

The review process is expected to provide an updated and contemporary set of standards while ensuring that the core values and components of the Standards are systematically addressed. It should encourage a forward-looking perspective, advance the future standing of the profession, and clearly differentiate social work from other professions.

We are currently designing the noticeboard where stakeholders can provide responses to the Consultation Paper and Consultation Questions (1.4). More information about this will be available soon.

For any further questions about the review please email: education@aasw.asn.au

Practice Standards 2013

The AASW Practice Standards 2013 were launched in June 2013 following a substantial review.

The Standards outline the practice expectations of all social workers. They are designed to guide social workers to ensure they fulfil their professional practice responsibilities.

The Practice Standards 2013 sit alongside the Code of Ethics 2010 (the Code) as an additional practice guide for members, employers and others.

The Ethics Consultation Service has been renamed the Ethics and Practice Standards Consultation Service and for the first time will expand to include consultation around the implementation and interpretation of the Practice Standards 2013 to guide practice, as the Code is currently used to guide ethical decision making and ethical practice.

Click here to download the Practice Standards 2013

The review process

For further information about the review process including consultation phases, incorporation of feedback and development of the Practice Standards 2013 framework please click here.

Professional resources

AASW - Australian Association of Social Workers

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