Social workers called to help unite a divided society on World Social Work Day 2026
For Immediate Release 17 March 2026
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is marking World Social Work Day 2026 today, joining the global profession in reflecting on this year’s theme: “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.”
Observed internationally on 17 March, World Social Work Day recognises the essential role social workers play in supporting individuals, families and communities, particularly those experiencing vulnerability, disadvantage or complex social challenges.
A Harambee call is a call for people to come together and work collectively to solve shared challenges. The word Harambee means “all pull together,” highlighting the importance of cooperation, solidarity and communities working side by side to create positive change.
AASW CEO Kerryn Pennell said the theme speaks directly to the challenges facing communities both in Australia and around the world.
“Communities across Australia are facing growing division and uncertainty,” Kerryn Pennell said. “Social workers play a vital role in working with a supporting people to promote stability, connect people and systems to work through challenges across cultures, generations and communities.”
Across Australia, more than 48,000* social workers support people in health, mental health, child and family services, disability, aged care, justice, housing, education and community services. This highly skilled workforce, around 84 per cent of whom are women, plays a vital role in helping individuals, families and communities navigate complex challenges and strengthen wellbeing.
“Social workers are often there when people are facing some of the toughest moments in their lives,” Kerryn said. “They help people find support, rebuild stability and stay connected to their communities.”
The international theme highlights the need to restore trust and rebuild a sense of belonging in communities that may feel fractured or divided.
To mark the day, the AASW will host a national webinar exploring the 2026 theme and highlighting the role of social work in building stronger, more connected communities.
The webinar will feature Dr Wilma Peters alongside the AASW 2025 National Excellence Award winners, who will reflect on how social workers are working across Australia to build connection, inclusion and social wellbeing.
World Social Work Day also provides an opportunity to recognise the thousands of social workers across Australia whose work strengthens communities every day.
The AASW encourages governments, organisations and communities to acknowledge the contribution of social workers and the important role they play in promoting wellbeing, human dignity and social justice.
World Social Work Day 2026 National Webinar
Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society
Date: 17 March 2026
Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm AEDT
Location: Online
Free for all social workers
*Source: Australian Government Jobs and Skills Australia https://ww2.aasw.asn.au/e/902551/ccupations-2725-social-workers/j7xtb/601608969/h/zIBGT0Rm-Z7CuiEvjvRXSM4Y81it3a0b2rXdrCjUbS0