Myths and facts
Eight things people get wrong about social work, and what the evidence says. Every fact links to its source.
Myth: Social workers just take children away.
Child protection is one field among many. Social workers also work in hospitals, mental health, disability, aged care, schools, justice and housing.
Source: AASW workforce data Source link to be added
Myth: Anyone can be a social worker.
A qualified social worker needs an accredited four-year degree or qualifying master's with 1,000 placement hours. The title isn't legally protected, which is one reason we campaign for registration.
Source: AASW accreditation standards Source link to be added
Myth: Social workers are just helpers.
Social workers influence policy, run services and lead research. Only 21% think the public knows this.
Myth: Social workers are all in government.
Social workers work in hospitals, NGOs, schools, private practice, universities and the NDIS.
Source: AASW workforce data Source link to be added
Myth: Social work is a soft option.
94% of social workers say they work hard, and 98% say it's a stressful job.
Myth: Social workers don't deal with health.
Health is one of the largest employers of social workers in Australia.
Source: AASW workforce data Source link to be added
Myth: Social workers are regulated like nurses.
There is no national registration. South Australia scrapped its scheme on 20 June 2026.
Myth: Social workers are ashamed of the job.
95% are proud to be social workers, even though 86% feel the profession is stigmatised.