ISSN 1329-0282 NATIONAL ABN 93 008 576 010
bulletinNEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS • VOLUME 21 ISSUE 3 • SPRING 2011 Oranges and Sunshine
The College: welcome to the Foundation Director: p9 New CPD requirements: p12 Social Work Education Standards Review: p13 Vale Connie Benn: p27 Oranges and Sunshine film review: p28 Clients with Mortgage Problems? ASIC's new Mortgage Stress campaign encourages people to take early action to resolve their financial problems
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AH020611-2 AASW www.health.qld.gov.au/allied Contents
Contents
Features Regular articles
Australian College of Social Work: National President’s Report: Now open for applications...... 9 A time for personal reflection...... 5
Your Professional Development, Your CPD Program – Letters to the Editor...... 21 Let’s work together!...... 12 AASW Member Benefits...... 29 ASWEAS Review: Consultations now open...... 13 Product order form...... 30 The AASW Budget 2011–2012...... 14
Election 2011 – your chance to shape the AASW’s future.... 16
Fair Pay rally...... 17
Victim support integral to prosecutions: National Conference told...... 18
The AASW’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)...... 19 Horizon Career Centre Member survey...... 19
Articulating our strengths...... 22 Are you a social worker, looking for locum work? Horizon Career Centre – website relaunched...... 23 Advertise your capabilities and availability on Horizon – only $50 + GST for AASW members Mental Health Council of Australia...... 25 – $250 + GST for non-members – advertisement is for one year. Obituary: Concetta (Connie) Benn...... 27 www.horizonemployment.com.au Ph. 1300 731 314 Movie review: Oranges and Sunshine...... 28
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Please note that once direct debit is initiated, funds will AASW BOARD OF DIRECTORS be transferred from your Position Name Email Branch allocation nominated bank/financial National President Bob Lonne [email protected] institution account on the National Marie-Claire Cheron-Sauer [email protected] Vice Presidents Vittorio Cintio [email protected] 26th day of each month. Directors Jose Abalo [email protected] NSW, HUNTER To cancel direct debit Robyn Mason [email protected] NTH QLD, QLD payments, please notify the Brian Wooller [email protected] VIC, TAS Suzanne Nesham [email protected] SA National Office in writing. Deb Lee [email protected] ACT, NT Sue Cumming [email protected] WA
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 3 NATIONAL AASW STAFF bulletin The National Bulletin, which belongs to the entire membership of the Australian Association of Social Workers and exists to promote the objectives of the Association, is published four NATIONAL STAFF NATIONAL OFFICE (Melbourne) Level 4, 224-236 Queen Street times per year by the Association. Policy issues concerning NATIONAL OFFICE (Canberra) MELBOURNE VIC 3000 AASW’s publications (National Bulletin, Australian Social PO Box 4956 Kingston ACT 2604 PO Box 13087, Law Courts, VICTORIA 8010 Level 4, 33-35 Ainslie Place Work, and the Web site) are determined by the Board. Fax: 03 9642 2971 Canberra City ACT 2601 Karl Charikar – Senior Manager T: 02 6232 3900 CONTRIBUTIONS F: 02 6230 4399 Communications & Advocacy E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Contributions from all members of the Association including W: www.aasw.asn.au T: 03 9642 2967 9.00am–5.00pm Mon–Fri letters, articles, images and statements of opinion reflecting Membership queries: responsible concern about professional and social issues Freecall: 1800 630 124 Kym Daly – Acting Senior Manager Email: [email protected] (Ethics & Standards) that pertain to social work are most welcome. The editor will E: [email protected] Chief Executive Officer consider for publication: T: 03 9642 2307 / 0431 214 409 E: [email protected] 9.00am–5.00pm Mon–Fri • unsolicited articles with images up to 1,600 words Linden Vine – Executive Assistant Sue Rouch – National Ethics Officer E: [email protected] E: [email protected] • letters to the Editor up to 400 words Stephen Brand – Executive Officer, T: 03 9642 2307 Australian College of Social Work • entries for Diary Dates up to 50 words including event Bron Lewis – Ethics Administration Officer E: [email protected] E: [email protected] name, dates, venue, keynote speakers, contact details Wayne Hart – Business Manager (email/website/phone) and closing dates for abstracts. Catriona Heffernan [email protected] International Qualifications Assessment Contributions are to be sent to the Editor via the National Joshua Tay – Senior Accountant Professional Officer E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Office on a CD or via email. Documents submitted Fiona Mulligan – Accounts T: 03 9642 2712 electronically should be rich text format. Accompanying E: [email protected] 9.00–5.00 Mon–Fri images should be high resolution .tif or .jpg format. Kathy Elliott – Accounts Assistant Elizabeth Sommerville A daytime contact telephone number and email address E: [email protected] Professional Officer – Mental Health should be included for verification. E: [email protected] Lisa Grech – Membership Officer T: 03 9642 2519 / 0417 538 447 Email: [email protected] The columns of the National Bulletin shall be open to those Kerril Williams Carly Brown – Admin Officer who hold cogent and responsible opposing opinions but the Mental Health Administration Officer editor shall exercise final judgement on which expressions Membership/Education E: [email protected] [email protected] T: 03 9642 2519 shall be given space in the publication. Robyn Cottell – Office Manager 9.00am–5.00pm Tue–Fri E: [email protected] Liz Morrison COPYRIGHT Mark Crossley – Education Officer Publications Officer (ASW Journal) E: [email protected] Home office, Melbourne Apart from fair dealing for the purpose of private study, Karen Rowland – International Qualifications E: [email protected] research, criticism, or review, as permitted under the Assessment Admin Officer Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process E: [email protected] HORIZON CAREER CENTRE W: www.horizonemployment.com.au without written permission from the editor via the National Public Affairs Officer E: [email protected] Office. E: [email protected] T: 1300 73 13 14 DISCLAIMER The views expressed in the National Bulletin are not necessarily those of the AASW. Acceptance of BRANCH STAFF Queensland advertising does not necessarily include endorsement Michelle Bainbridge – Branch Manager Australian Capital Territory T: 07 3369 9818 / F: 07 3217 6938 of advertised products. Branch Co-ordinator E: [email protected] E: [email protected] PO Box 1015 MILTON QLD 4064 PO Box 4956 KINGSTON ACT 2604 AASW NATIONAL OFFICE 9.00am–5.00pm Mon–Fri Mon–Fri (8hrs per week) Level 4, 33-35 Ainslie Place South Australia Hunter Kathy Baklan – Executive Officer Canberra City ACT 2601 Administration Officer T: 08 8231 9977 / F: 08 8231 9907 (PO Box 4956, Kingston ACT 2604) E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Ph: (02) 6232 3900 Fax: (02) 6230 4399 PO Box 240 NEWCASTLE NSW 2300 Level 1, Education Development Centre 5hrs per week 4 Milner Street HINDMARSH SA 5007 New South Wales 9.30am–5.00pm Tue & Thu MEMBERS’ FORUM & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Nives Crvenkovic – Project Officer Tasmania Ph: (02) 6232 3900 E: [email protected] Sandra Fox – Administration Officer Email: [email protected] Suraya Coorey – Administration Officer T/F: 03 6224 5833 T: 02 9518 4944 / F: 02 9552 3005 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES AND CONTRIBUTIONS PO Box 20 SOUTH HOBART TAS 7004 PO Box 1173 STRAWBERRY HILLS NSW 2012 Tue–Thu Email: [email protected] 9.00am–5.00pm Mon–Fri Victoria Address: via AASW National Office North Queensland Liz Leveridge – Office Manager Antoinette Woods – Administrator T: 03 9642 3365 / F: 03 9388 1399 T: 0428 489 683 / F: 07 4944 1361 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] PO Box 367 CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053 Cover photos: From the filmOranges and Sunshine, PO Box 1302 HYDE PARK QLD 4812 9.00am–5.00pm Mon, Wed, Fri 9.00–5.00pm Tue, 9.00am–12.00noon Thu courtesy Icon Film Distribution Western Australia Northern Territory Sophie Mason – Executive Officer Design and Layout: Black Swan Art & Design Christine Winn – Administration Officer T: 08 9420 7240 / F: 08 9486 9766 T: 08 8948 1051 E: [email protected] Printed by: Union Offset Printers E: [email protected] City West Lotteries House, PO Box 40556 CASUARINA NT 0811 2 Delhi St WEST PERTH WA 6005 8.30am–5.00pm Mon, Tue, Fri Closing date for the Summer 2011 edition is 18 October 2011
4 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 National President’s report
A time for personal reflection
Professor Bob Lonne – National President Email: [email protected]
As I write this piece I have 99 days financial austerity to restore our reserves; review and rebuild our left to my second term as National core member services; and reshape our governance structures, President of the AASW, and I particularly at a board level to enable us to more flexibly respond must admit that I am looking to the challenges we faced. I realised that to do these things I forward to doing other things and have no pangs of regret needed to gather good people into the Association and assemble about not running again. I am ready to pass the baton to the a strong leadership team at all levels, board, branch, committees person chosen by members to be their National President and and staff – and all of this on a shoe string but with a strong to carry out their aspirations for the Association and profession. collective vision of a rejuvenated AASW. I am extremely proud It is indeed a special honour and I feel deeply humbled that of the success achieved in reaching those goals. members selected me to lead the AASW through a period of real I have thanked those who helped in previous Bulletins and difficulty and change. will do so again (in no particular order), but our advances The next period in the AASW’s history will also need to be a included ethics, the journal, the accredited mental health access period of significant change because the reality is that nowadays, to Medicare, IQC, improved relations with stakeholders, our with the society, sector and profession experiencing constant, financial management and planning as well as internal business rapid transformation and reform, we also need to continually processes, our rebuilt constitution, a revamped Education adjust and adapt if social work and the AASW are to remain Standards that brought in the entry-level MSW, and a range of strong and germane to contemporary realities. As you select the innovative projects at branches. There were core people who nominees to receive your votes in the upcoming election, think worked tirelessly and with a commitment to the collective carefully. My own view is that those who suggest building a vision. Thank you again (in no particular order) the five Sue’s, wall around social work to protect it from the slings and arrows Jane, Stephen, Robert, Maria, Kerryn, Sharon, Robin, Vittorio, of change have little to offer. Instead, we need to select leaders Donnie, Jose, Sheryl, Lesley, Nonie, Milos, Chris, Peter, Pam who have a vision of a bright future and who build bridges and all board, national committee, branch management and to the opportunities that exist to grow the profession and the review team members. I hope that I have not inadvertently left association. When I say vision, I mean far more than feel good anyone out and apologise if I have. platitudes like ‘make the AASW more relevant’, which I have Despite these sterling efforts, we had much more to do if heard sometimes from critics. Vision means having a full agenda we were to make real dents into the still precarious nature of real initiatives to put to members about how to lead and of our overall circumstances. What I mean here is that our manage. These mean that successes are regularly achieved and membership, whilst growing slightly, was insufficient to build progress is made toward change goals that make the association the things we needed in order secure our future and to make and profession bigger, stronger and better equipped to show the ourselves resilient to broad societal forces such as neo-liberal way to the human services and community toward a more just agendas, and the ongoing problems being experienced trying and humane society that respects human rights. to attend to our shrinking proportion of a rapidly growing As I will shortly outline, the directions we have set during my human services workforce, ageing membership, and difficulties terms have led to significant progress with our governance, recruiting into the profession. organisational capacity, and professional standing. These My second term, therefore, entailed a far broader agenda that directions need to be maintained and the course stayed. Taking a built on the earlier successes. In essence, the goals included different path is folly. implementing an agenda for more significant change to the When I came to the AASW Board in early 2005 as the Association and the profession in order to grow it and allow us Qld Branch Director, Peter, Sue, Sarah and Cecile were the to reclaim a lot of lost territory in what was a fundamentally leadership team (among others) who had saved the AASW restructured human services, in particular, to reassert our values, from financial collapse. I know and appreciate the really hard ethics and methods and thereby renew our leadership role. The yards they did for the AASW and how much we are indebted Australian College of Social Work, Pathways, the mental health to them. When I took the mantle following Peter’s resignation, initiatives, steadfast pursuit of registration, a revised Continuing my first term goals were fairly straight forward and included: Professional Development scheme, better access to top line
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 5 National President’s report
journals (being rolled out this year) and branch redevelopment. undertaking the review processes that have helped reposition our Make no mistake, this is an ambitious agenda but one that is thinking and actions, sourcing outside monies to help us to do critical to our ongoing growth and development. the things we have needed to do, and for running conferences, CPD events and the regular machinery we need to do the This is no time for being faint hearted about why and how business at hand. we need to change. Strong and experienced leadership is required. The AASW remains in a fragile position viś a viś the We haven’t always got it right, but we have got most of the developments within the sector. The workforce trends and issues things right most of the time. I particularly thank the Branch are now well established and it will take time for us to turn Presidents who have hung in there when the financial reporting around our overall fortunes. But this is no time to listen to those has been inadequate, administrative processes have had hiccups, who argue that we should go into our shells and not undertake and conflicts have arisen. Without your continued support these changes – they offer the false hope that by doing nothing things would have been a lot tougher and success less likely. we can hold on to what we have. Such a stance has not worked Thank you (in no particular order), Annie, Glenda, all the in the past for the profession and won’t now. Sue’s, Anne, Jill, Judy, Nic, David, Sabina etc for your efforts and support. In addition, our Aboriginal national committee There are many people who have contributed to the broad members have helped keep us all on the reform path – so thanks second term change agenda outlined above. Some of them go to (in no particular order) Christine, Josie, Bindi, Kylie, are academics and researchers who have analysed the data and Leah, Sue and Penny. the dynamic processes at play. Others are AASW members at all levels who remained steadfast in their support and who I would like to finish off by expressing my gratitude for the understood that continuing to do things the same as we have second term Board Directors who helped me to build the always done them was not a good way to go. While the Board agenda, manage the issues that cropped up from time to time, members have played pivotal parts, so have others at various and keep the vision of what we could be. Success has been times. I thank everyone who has worked with me to make built upon your efforts and your intellect. Thank you (in no the AASW a better organization, in particular, for successes particular order) Donnie, Jose, the two Sue’s, Deb, Brian, such as bedding down the new constitution, building a proper Robyn, Jill and Naomi, as well as Bryan, Helen, Sue and Annie Indigenous platform and agenda for the AASW, developing who stood in when asked. I remain indebted to Maria for her the College, improving our website and communication, generous, insightful and challenging advice and guidance when I
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6 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 National President’s report
needed it most. Her contributions have gone unsung but she has I will soon ‘hand over the reins’ to whomever you, the members, provided me with the sorts of pearls without which I could not choose. I know you will do so wisely. Keep the passion strong have managed the complexities and achieved. She is a legend! for the change agenda and make our collective futures in the AASW continue to be bright and rewarding. We, the AASW, are My special thanks also goes to the members of the AASW fortunate indeed to have the ability to access the sorts of talent executive, without whom I simply would not have been able to and resources I have outlined above. I thank you for trusting keep going when things got really tough and decision making was me with the responsibility to lead this wonderful association of difficult or complex. You were there when needed and you have social workers. I am richer for the experience and, I trust, so is always provided forthright and fearless advice and viewpoints the AASW and the profession. about the issues. So, thank you Sue, Sarah, Cecile, Jane, Vittorio, Professor Bob Lonne Joe, Marie-Claire and Brian. You were so often the engine room National President for the progress we made and I have greatly valued your support, humour, intellect, straight talking, caring and perseverance with both progressing the change agenda, and dealing with the CEO Column inevitable problems and issues that arise from day to day in what is a multi-level and complex organisation facing many challenges This edition contains no column from the AASW CEO. and opportunities. We couldn’t have done it without you and As members will know, Kandie Allen-Kelly left her I can attest to how well you epitomize what social workers are position in June and Peter Badenhorst is acting in the capable of achieving. Go you good things! CEO role while a permanent replacement is found. Peter Finally, I wish to speak to the efforts and achievements of the would like to thank Kandie for her handover to him, and staff who have had to deal with, on a day-to-day basis, the the entire staff for their professionalism and commitment job of running the business operations and implementing our Peter has said that it’s a pleasure to have worked with the change agenda. There are too many over the years to mention. AASW staff, office holders and members for this short We have achieved our success largely on their efforts and they period and wishes the organisation well for its future. continue to provide us with solid, faithful and reliable service to advance our collective ambitions. In particular, I acknowledge Kandie who recently moved on from the AASW and who was responsible for so many of our achievements, including steering us through a growth and expansion of our operations, managing organisational change, the upgraded website and member communication, human resource policies, relationship development across a range of stakeholder organisations, and a new ethics system etc. Her leadership in reversing the Federal Government’s diabolical decision to remove social workers from the Better Access program is an exemplar of her quality NOW OPEN FOR MEMBER APPLICATIONS and professional capabilities. The AASW is a far better run www.acsw.asn.au organisation as a result of her efforts and I am delighted that she continues to play important ongoing roles as a member.
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 7 Leah is a Sydney based doctoral- Treating PTSD level clinical psychologist with 17 years of clinical and teaching 2011-12 trauma education expertise in CBT and traumatology presented by LIMITED PLACES. REGISTER EARLY Dr Leah Giarratano This program attracts 14 ACMHN CPE Points, 28 AASW CPE points or 14 APS CPD hours Gold Coast, 6-7 October Melbourne CBD, 13-14 October Bathurst NSW, 20-21 October Newcastle NSW, 3-4 November Wollongong NSW, 10-11 November Sydney CBD, 17-18 November 2012 WORKSHOPS: Hobart, 17-18 May Cairns, 31 May-1 June Perth, 14-15 June Adelaide 21-22 June
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2011 WORKSHOPS Gold Coast, 6-7 October Melbourne CBD, 13-14 October Bathurst, 20-21 October Newcastle, 3-4 November Wollongong, 10-11 November Sydney, CBD 17-18 November 2012 WORKSHOPS: Hobart, 17-18 May Cairns, 31 May-1 June Perth, 14-15 June Adelaide 21-22 June Please circle the workshop you wish to attend above and return a copy of this completed page Name: Profession:
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Cheques are to be made payable to Talomin Books Pty Ltd and mailed to PO Box 877, Mascot NSW 1460 If payment is made with a credit card (or if you are reserving a place), simply complete the information above and fax this page to (02) 8786 1361. A receipt will be emailed to you upon processing. Note: Attendee withdrawals more than one month in advance attract a processing fee of $55. No withdrawals are permitted in the month prior to the workshop; however positions are transferable to anyone you nominate. Australian College of Social Work: Now open for applications Stephen Brand Executive Officer, Australian College of Social Work
Introduction and Progress the pursuit of social justice in Australia and overseas. Her commitment to the principles and values of social work are The Australian College of Social Work opened for applications exemplified in her career. Below this article is a narrative of on 1 July 2011. Information about the College is available on Jan’s career so far. We have some wonderful characters in the the College website www.acsw.asn.au. By the time you read profession of social work, Jan is one of them. Her strength and this article the Foundation Director, Jan Carter, will be well commitment to social work values is exemplified in her career underway with a program of engaging Branches and Program highlights. Please read and enjoy. committees in discussions about the College and what the College should represent in our profession. In addition to these discussions, Jan and the Executive Officer, Stephen Brand, will be running forums about advanced social work practice, what it Meet the Foundation Director, Jan Carter is and how the College can promote advanced practice, within Jan Carter has been practitioner, researcher, policy developer, specialties and also as part of generic social work practice. community developer and educator. She thinks of herself as a By the time of this publication, the College will also have generic social worker, undertaking advanced practice. Although announced 12 Foundation Fellows. These highly regarded she also has argued strongly for specialised fields in postgraduate social workers will assist at forums and meetings to represent social work education and practice, she wants the profession the College and what it stands for. Foundations Fellows were to focus on the advanced implications of generic practice as appointed by the Board and represent social work practitioners a strength. of high achievement, both in terms of what social work stands Her own appreciation of social work is as a vocation committed for and in promoting and developing the profession itself to the grand themes of social inclusion, social justice and to enable the profession to continue to achieve change and equality but with the realisation that practice and everyday life advancement in Australian society. is about finding ways to make visions practical and relevant Entry criteria by unpacking complexity. Whilst she personally views social work as a vocation, she also understand that it operates in a With the assistance of excellent feedback from AASW members, complicated industry and has strong technical requirements and the College entry criteria continues to be reviewed and from these three dimensions need to come together. time to time amended. This is to better reflect the experience of social workers across the country and across the huge Jan was born in Perth and educated in Perth and Melbourne. spectrum of social work practice. The College staff is aware She decided to become a social worker in her final school year, that many members may not fit easily into the entry criteria visiting Royal Perth Hospital’s Careers Week. After combining that is described on the website. Therefore, if you are unclear if arts/social studies at the University of Melbourne, she worked your professional circumstances lead to you being eligible, you in hospitals in Melbourne, Perth and London for 12 years are invited to email a description of your circumstances to the as a clinical social worker and as the youngest ever Head of College email address for review ([email protected]). Please any Department at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children clearly identify against which criteria you are unclear and be Perth. This was a defining work experience – she encountered brief in describing your circumstances. The College staff will children’s disadvantage and discrimination, especially endeavour to respond to your inquiry as soon as possible. You Aboriginal. At PMH, with Jane Brazier she set up WA’s first can also call the College phone inquiry line on 1800 630 127. child protection service, which held her in good stead when she However an email description will be the clearest way of inquiry. moved to England. In five years at the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond The Foundation Director Street London she set up that Hospital’s first interdisciplinary The AASW was delighted to appoint Professor Jan Carter as child protection service (and wrote her first book – the first the Foundation Director of the College. Jan has a long and on child abuse in the UK – The Maltreated Child). She also respected association with the profession of social work and set up a day program for severely handicapped children with
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 9 ACSW
neurological difficulties and wrote about a group work program advocacy and action processes as well as its information, library developed for parents. and public affairs services. She established links with universities and participated in many national research and policy Also in London, as Principal Social Worker for the London development exercises, such as working with Brian Burdekin as Borough of Camden, Jan had oversight of the transfer of 250 or Commissioner for the Human Rights and Equal Opportunities so health social workers working in the National Health Service Commission first national inquiry into youth homelessness. within the boundaries of Camden to the employment of the Also during this time, Jan and her colleagues built a coalition local authority (which had become the national employer of with Australian business to fight child poverty, the first not-for- all social workers). This was a controversial first venture into profit and business consortium of its type. change management as within the group were many specialist clinical social work groups – such as those working for the In 1992 Jan was appointed to the University of Melbourne as Tavistock Clinic who were not keen to move. Professor of Social Work and Head of Department, where she established the first elective on poverty and disadvantage and Following a postgraduate degree in medical sociology at the introduced plans for higher degrees in mental health and child University of London (Bedford College) Jan was appointed and family clinical social work. She was appointed to the Prime principal research fellow at the National Institute for Social Minister’s Committee on Employment Opportunities which Work in London, undertaking a national research project wrote the Green Paper Restoring Full Employment (1995). on day care, funded by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. Day care covered all fields of service from offenders to the In 1995 Jan moved to Deakin University, setting up the confused elderly and the mentally ill; in hospitals (the NHS), research institute Deakin Human Services, which focussed on local government and NGOs. At the time, this research was unemployment, homelessness, mental illness, and child and the largest social survey of services undertaken in the UK and family welfare. In undertaking a project for the Commonwealth resulted in Day Service for Adults (Allen and Unwin 1983). One in 1999, Education and Training in Mental Health, Jan and of Jan’s off the record memories of this project was finding Enid colleagues established the interdependence and unique features Blyton as an interviewee in a research sample in the day hospital of the five disciplines involved in mental health practice work, she then attended! and set benchmarks for the way that professions could work better with consumers and carers. The framework of this Jan retained her strong interest in children’s services and child report was the starting point for the next decade of social work development and with others set up two new NGOs. With a professional development in mental health. formerly abusing mother, Pat, she set up a helpline service – Parents Anonymous London – for unsupported parents. With In 1999, Jan undertook a review for the new Victorian a group of social work and lawyer colleagues she established Government on the future role of community services. In the TRIAL (The Register of Independent Advisors, Limited), a same year, she was appointed Director of the Australian Institute consortium of lawyers and social workers prepared to act for of Family Studies, but was prevented from taking up this children in care proceedings initiated by local governments. position by the intervention of Prime Minister Howard. This occupational crisis drove Jan into private practice, taking a fresh In her period in London, Jan published four books. One, an look at some things new, some things old. A new set of work oral history of older women in Western Australia before World priorities emerged, focussed around the following goals which War One – Nothing to Spare – won the WA Premier’s Non- have been her guiding visions to the present: Fiction Award. • working closely with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Jan returned from the UK to Western Australia where she Islander peoples whenever/wherever possible undertook The Welfare and Community Services Review for the • immersion in rural/regional community development new Labor Government in 1983. Western Australian social workers will remember that Jan unwittingly crossed (and then • understanding and contributing to evidence-informed policy fell out with) the then Premier of WA Brian Burke by (amongst and practice other things) advocating for children in poverty and uncovering • contributing to governance and leadership in policy and unethical behaviour in the WA Government. She returned to practice organisations Melbourne as Director of the Social Policy Research Centre • revisiting the significance of child neglect in child protection at the Brotherhood of St Laurence (where she followed in the • testing innovative social programs for children and young footsteps of the late Connie Benn), and using high quality people research as a policy and advocacy tool, built several national • increasing the social work contribution to the philanthropic campaigns, including the famous campaign around Prime sector, and Minister Hawke’s promise: By 1990 no Australian child will be living in poverty. During her time at the Brotherhood, Jan • working with the AASW (so in taking up the job as ACSW built up the Brotherhood’s publications and its research, policy, Foundation Director, Jan is achieving a long held aspiration).
10 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 ACSW
Jan recently retired from the Executive Board of the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute after 11 years and has Advancing Victim-Centred Knowledge been appointed to the Sydney-based Board of The Benevolent Essay Contest 2011-2012 Society (Australia’s oldest welfare organisation) and to a newly Victim Support Service is promoting formed Aboriginal Trust in the Pilbara. She is an Adjunct outstanding victim-centred scholarship Professor at the University of Queensland and LaTrobe that examines the experiences of victims, University. She is a Member in the Order of Australia (AM) and and how to assist victims rebuild their lives, or contributes to the work of the criminal justice holds a Centenary of Federation medal. system and allied professionals who assist victims. After returning from the UK, Jan undertook an MPhil in More information can be found Australian Studies, to reacquaint herself with Australian culture at www.victimsa.org and history. Jan is passionate about the arts – especially literature Please direct questions and poetry, music, theatre, film and art, especially Aboriginal to [email protected] art. She is also very interested in the role of spirituality and transcendence in human affairs and resilience. She follows current affairs and politics (as others follow AFL football!). In her spare time she is writing a book about the Lockhart River Aboriginal Community in Cape York and this year has judged personal friends. Jan sees the ACSW as an opportunity for the WA Premier’s Book Awards for non-fiction. She has also advanced practitioners to contribute their wisdom, form practice developed and taught research writing courses for senior staff standards and discuss the role of the profession in Australian in a large university. society. She is delighted to play a part in establishing such a Throughout her working life, Jan has worked with many fine, significant body for Australian social work and looks forward to committed social workers and many of these have become firm meeting social workers around Australia.
Welcome to the Australian College of Social Work from the Foundation Director
For 65 years the AASW has represented members by Visions accrediting University social work education; by supporting So join the vision! The vision of the Australian College continuing professional education; by supporting practice of Social Work is to recognise, demonstrate and promote groups and advocating for social work and by establishing an outstanding practice and set standards for quality in specialist ethics framework that is second to none. and advanced generic social work practice. But there is Now these themes unite in the Australian College of Social more. The ACSW advocates for high quality service and will Work which will support deep specialists and advanced influence social change through advanced thinking and new generic practice. The College will also develop knowledge, linkages bearing on old and new social problems. measure expertise and share practice evidence with partners The Australian College of Social Work aspires to be more — consumers and clients, employers and governments and than an aggregation of individual members and an expert Australian communities. division of the AASW. It acknowledges the complexity of When I was a social work student at the University of social problems, the specialist nature of society, the force of Melbourne, I read an American journal article which described technological change, the contested nature of contemporary social work (in those heady days of the 1960s/70s) as a professionalism and the increased requirement for profession with a ‘champagne reputation and a root-beer measurement of ‘what works’. performance’. I suspect many years later, that the reverse might Whilst the College advances specialist practice through be true: that there is much champagne in our performance accreditation, a collegial environment and a program of despite, too often, a root-beer reputation. Our job in the challenging activities, these are not ends in themselves: the test College is to connect both performance and reputation so that will be the ACSW’s contribution to a fair and just society. we can better serve our clients and communities. Jan Carter Foundation Director, ACSW
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 11 Continuing Professional Development
Your Professional Development, Your CPD Program – Let’s work together!
We are currently trialling the new CPD Policy and we are keen Testing new online CPD Tracker to work with you! The new CPD Policy was launched on 1 July, In the coming months the online CPD Tracker will be ready and we want to work closely with members as we trial, develop for testing. We invite members to participate, and participation and improve this policy over the coming year. will of course be worth CPD points (Category 3: Contributing The new program includes a requirement for all members to your profession). If you would like to register your interest to (excluding retirees and students) to complete some professional participate in testing please email the Education Officer development each membership year to meet our ethical [email protected] obligation to lifelong learning. Accredited Mental Health Social Workers There is no change to your eligibility for (AMHSW) membership of the AASW We recognise that the CPD Policy 2011-12 currently being Eligibility for AASW membership is based on completion of trialled may present challenges for some AMHSW. As such an AASW Accredited Social Work qualification (or assessment arrangements are in place to manage reduced requirements/ as equivalent for overseas qualified members). This will exemptions for all AMHSW. To discuss reduced requirements not change. please contact the AASW Mental Health Team via email One of the big questions for members this year is of course [email protected] Please also note that the policy will what completing/not completing the CPD requirements may continue to be developed in the coming year and we encourage mean for the future. Members strongly supported the idea that your feedback to inform that work. all members should have to complete CPD requirements. Your important feedback We now need to devise a suitable way to recognise, support and encourage members to achieve this goal. Your feedback is crucial to make the new CPD Policy work.
Your input and advice will be essential as we develop We have already received a lot of feedback and we will be these guidelines. continuing to seek your comments on a number of issues that require further consideration in the CPD policy. For example; There is no penalty if you do not meet How to support those members who are currently not practicing the CPD requirements in 2011–12 as Social Workers?; Should there be reduced requirements for members working part-time?; How can we increase member This year is about developing the program to support members. access to activities?; How can we support Accredited Mental We encourage all members to undertake the program, whether Health Social Workers in meeting their CPD requirements? you are a practicing or non practicing member, and then throughout the year let us know of your experiences. This will We want to hear from you let us further develop the program. Please contact us with your suggestions and feedback at We want to hear from you as you trial the new system over the [email protected] next 12 months. Your feedback is critical to improve the CPD For more information see www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/ system in order to meet your needs. continuing-professional-education Retired and Student Members do not have to complete the CPD Requirements
While we encourage retired members to maintain engagement don’t miss out with the profession they are not required to complete the CPD Find out more about the AASW’s activities requirements. Students, having not yet qualified are not required – make sure we have your correct email address to participate in the CPD program. and that we have permission to contact you. Email [email protected]
12 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 ASWEAS review
ASWEAS Review Have your say: second phase of consultation commencing soon
A review of the Australian Social Work Education and the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS) is currently underway, and Relations (DEEWR), whose funding enabled us to engage Jane we have just completed the first round of national consultations. for this work.
The Australian Association of Social Workers is responsible Throughout the first round of consultations, we consulted for the accreditation of social work programs in Australian widely with AASW Branches, National Committees and universities. Accreditation is the mechanism whereby social members, the social work education sector, and external work programs in Australian universities are reviewed against stakeholders such as government, industry groups, employers the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation and service users. Standards (ASWEAS), the national standards for social work The important data and feedback arising from the first round education in Australia. of public consultations is now being collated, synthesised and The ASWEAS ensure that graduating Social Workers have the analysed, to create a draft of the revised ASWEAS. skills, knowledge and values to successfully enter the profession A second round of public consultations will be conducted and to work in a range of contexts. during October 2011. We will be seeking your feedback on It is an AASW Board requirement that the ASWEAS are the new draft ASWEAS. regularly reviewed, in order to ensure that rigorous and robust We encourage you to participate in this important review. standards of education for professional social work are maintained. Please continue to check the ASWEAS Review webpage for updates www.aasw.asn.au/whatwedo/consultation-asweas-review A focus of the 2011 ASWEAS Review is on strengthening the The draft of the revised ASWEAS will be available on the standards in ways that ensure that graduating social workers are ASWEA Review webpage from 3 October 2011. well equipped to enter the profession to meet the challenges of diverse working environments in direct and indirect practice For enquiries or more information, please contact settings, and are well positioned to undertake more specialised [email protected] education and training as part of a commitment to the principles of life long learning. Marie-Claire Cheron-Sauer (AASW National The ASWEAS Review process is an important opportunity for Vice-President, Education and Chair of the ASWEAS our members and partners in social work education to refine Review Reference Group) highlights that: and develop the ASWEAS framework. There are broad and far- reaching possibilities for change. “The ASWEAS set the standards for social work education in Australia. Schools of Social Work in Australian To commence the process, a Literature Review was undertaken universities provide social work programs with curriculum earlier this year. The Literature Review and other documents content, compliant with the ASWEAS, ensuring that relating to the Review are available at www.aasw.asn.au/ social work graduates have the requisite values, skills and whatwedo/consultation-asweas-review knowledge to equip them for excellence in practice, when The Literature Review was used to inform the development they enter the workforce. of a Discussion Paper, which considered the issues relevant “The ASWEAS are one of the cornerstones of the to the higher education environment generally, and to social Association, and provide the building blocks for our Schools work education specifically, both internationally and nationally. of Social Work to develop high quality courses for Australia’s The Discussion Paper, which included some focus/discussion future social workers. Keeping high standards in our degree questions, was then used as the basis for a national consultation programs is one of the fundamental responsibilities of process throughout July and August this year. the Association. We would particularly like to acknowledge the work of “I encourage members to take a look at the review of the Dr Jane Thomson who we engaged as a consultant to research ASWEAS and to contribute to the discussion about social and write the Literature Review and Discussion Paper. Jane work education in Australia into the future. There are brought incredible skill, expertise and dedication to this broad and far-reaching possibilities for change.” process. We also acknowledge the financial contribution of
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 13 AASW budget
The AASW Budget 2011–2012 Wayne Hart , AASW Business Manager
The Budget: two words that around May every year are probably classes of members. Our fees have generally been lower than amongst the most used by our government and perhaps the two those of comparable associations, which are therefore able to words that are also the most misunderstood. However many of offer more services and programs to their membership. The the aspects upon which the decisions of our families, workplaces Board feels strongly that AASW needs to provide for and and communities will be based flow out of this annual process. communicate a better ‘value proposition’ to members. And so it is for the AASW. Under the rules of our Constitution, Self-funding programs Bylaws, and Policies; your Board of Directors, the Finance Committee of the Board, and the Senior staff of the AASW The Association provides a wide range of professional worked through the many submissions from Branches, National services to ensure that professional social work standards are Committees and Programs to prepare a budget that will enable maintained throughout Australia. These include, for example, the most effective allocation of our financial resources for the the International Qualification Assessment (IQA), and the year ahead. Accreditation of Australian Schools of Social Work programs. In budgeting for this work the Board has maintained the principle Challenges that such service programs should be fully self-funding, ie there should be no subsidisation of these services by members who do The biggest challenge facing the Board was to ensure that there not directly benefit from them. were sufficient funds available to complete a very ambitious development program. Having decided to use $300,000 from Resource allocation reserves to fund the first phase of the development program in 2010-2011, it was very clear that deficit funding could not Below you will see a pie chart presentation of the allocation of continue in future years, but with a successful first phase to expenditure to the many Branch, National Office and Program establish the parameters, the Board was now confident it could activities. The stark reality is that this is a ‘zero sum game’ set a balanced budget for 2011-2012, and also set a sustainable situation in which wins or losses by some activities of the AASW foundation for future budgets. are losses and wins to others. As you have probably already worked out, the AASW has no ability to raise additional money As an example, the concepts and structures for the new by way of shares, borrowings, or taxes. We only have what Australian College of Social Work were developed from AASW we earn. reserves in years past, will have a small subsidy from National Office this year, and will be self-funding thereafter. Nevertheless in reaching its decisions on this budget the Board has addressed many areas including, for example: Income forecasting • Minimising travel costs: We are a big country and need Members are the core of the AASW and provide the bulk of the to travel widely to conduct our business, however, the funds whether it is by fees or by value added services such as Continuing Professional Development. This AASW Budget 2011–2012 year the income from all sources is budgeted to be $4.41 million. The Board has budgeted to spend $4.35 million of this income leaving only a very College of Schools Accreditation 3% Social Work modest surplus to cover any unexpected events. Branch Office 11% Support Services International Assessme nts 4% Obviously this does not leave much room for 16% things to go wrong, however this year the Board CPD (National & Branches) 4% used a new membership fees model to produce Other National Commi ttees accurate income estimates based on realistic 11% Ethics (Panel & Policy) 4% membership demographics, as they were in the Members (PI/PL) Insurance 4% past, are now, and forecast for the year ahead. Membership This has determined the need to increase fees Support Services 11% Advocacy & Communications 3% but to also have realistic expectations of potential Board & changes in membership numbers in 2011-2012. National Office Publications Executive Support Services (Journal & Bulletin) Committee 13% 7% While seeing a need to increase fees, the Board 8% gave wide consideration to affordability for all
14 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 AASW budget
Board recognises that we need to consider some different It is always worth remembering that the AASW exists as a approaches to communication such as using technology, even mutual benefit association for its members, and that the greatest more so that we already do, and restructuring our in-person skills and knowledge of our profession lie with our members. meetings to reduce travel costs. • Reducing discretionary spending: The Board has asked the • Minimising staff levels: Other than major new projects, CEO to review all areas of discretionary expenditure, and such as the College, the Board has generally maintained that this continues on an ongoing basis to identify more cost current AASW staff levels. The Board has also commissioned effective ways of achieving our strategic objectives. a business redesign process to ensure that staff resources are • More reliable financial reporting: The AASW has this allocated in the most effective manner. year undertaken a major restructuring of the accounting • Optimising the use of Members and Consultants: The system including the chart of accounts and branch / program Association grew out of the volunteer contributions of its financial reporting. This will see simpler, more reliable first members but in some areas that contribution is now financial reporting from National Office to programs and being replaced by consultants, often because we want get branches, and enable budget holders to manage our scarce things done much more quickly. resources more carefully. The Board strongly recognises the huge time contribution In conclusion made by branch management and program committee members, and highly values that contribution, but also The AASW is a small but complex organisation, some might considers that there may be opportunities to cast the say ‘punching above its weight’ but members can be assured that volunteer net wider, and enable newer members to make a its resources are carefully managed to support its member social contribution to the reviews and development activities of workers in their professional roles across a very wide range of the Association. programs and services.
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volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 15 Election 2011
Election 2011 – your chance to shape the AASW’s future
All members are encouraged to participate in the AASW How does a member stand for a position? elections. Nominations were open in August for the following Members received emails asking them to nominate for any of national and branch positions at the AASW: the above positions during August. This information was also • National President (1 position) available from the front page of the AASW website. • National Vice President (1) How do I find out about the candidates? • National Board Director (3)* (including one reserved position for an ATSI member) The website contains statements from all the candidates, as well as a members’ forum to ask questions and engage other members. • Branch (BMC) Vice Presidents (1) • Branch Committee (BMC) members (up to 5) There will also be a special election edition of the National Bulletin which will better inform members of the elections and If there is more than one nomination for any available position the candidates. elections will be held. How do I vote? Voting in Board and Branch elections are one of the ways AASW members shape the Association. Members are the Voting takes place online for all these positions, and members lifeblood of the Association and members are encouraged to will receive an email when voting commences with an invitation become more involved in the AASW. to cast their votes for their preferred candidate. Members who have requested a paper ballot need to have done so by the end of Who is eligible to stand for a position? July, and a notice was included with the Winter edition of the National Bulletin to that effect. Current financial members of the AASW are able to stand for election. If you experience any difficulty in casting your vote please contact the AASW staff for assistance. Campaigning and electioneering A contest for positions is a sign of a healthy organisation, and all activities relating to the elections are subject to our Constitution and Bylaws, which are available on the website. The elections take place under the supervision of an independent returning officer, and in accordance with the Australian Electoral Commission requirements. Any complaint regarding behaviour relating to the NOW OPEN FOR MEMBER APPLICATIONS election is sent to the Returning Officer for adjudication. www.acsw.asn.au Please do take the time to get to know the candidates standing for positions. All our office holders play vital roles in shaping the direction of the AASW and your votes are one way for you PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE to have your say.
Sir Richard Bowlby Horizon Career Centre Hear the Inside Story of Attachment Theory Sir Richard Bowlby will outline primary and secondary attachments and how they relate infant and child mental health and examine the psychological Social Worker Employers coping mechanisms used by babies and children who experience disruptions Find your next social worker appointment or to attachment relationships. A once in a locum at Horizon – a highly focused and very lifetime opportunity, in Australia, to hear Sir Richard’s personal insight into his father’s (John Bowlby) attachment theory. popular career website with an average of Conference: 3 November 2011 9am–5pm 3800 visitors per month. WatervieW, Bicentennial Park, Sydney NSW For more information & to register online: www.horizonemployment.com.au www.playtherapy.org/richard-bowlby-conf.html Email: [email protected] Ph. 1300 731 314
16 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 Fair Pay rally
Fair Pay rally
The AASW has strongly supported the ASU (Australian Services Union) campaign for fair wages for community sector workers.
Around 20% of AASW members work in the not-for-profit sector. The sector is grossly underfunded and qualified professionals, including social workers, are often attracted to leave the sector by higher wages and better support in the public sector. Many stay despite the low wages because they find a personal and professional synergy with the values of the sector.
The AASW has encouraged members to participate in the ASU’s campaign by sending emails and letters to MPs, and by attending the rallies held in capital cities around the country.
Kate Incerti, the Convenor of the AASW’s National Social Policy Committee, attended the rally held in Melbourne in June.
The following resolution was passed by those present in Melbourne: Photo: Kate Incerti
Workers here today stand in solidarity, proud of what our campaign has achieved to date.
FWA [Fair Work Australia] has endorsed what we have been saying all along – that community work is undervalued and underpaid, that this relates to gender and that we are entitled to have this fixed. But we still have a way to go if we are going to win the outcome that union members have worked so hard to achieve.
Today’s action sends the strongest possible message to those who fund our work: • No longer will we put up with our wages being discounted. • No longer will we put up with workers in the community
Photo: Kate Incerti sector and those that rely on them being treated as second class citizens.
We need governments to stop saying that funding community services has to be a choice between providing services OR paying decent wages to workers.
This is not about the cost of equal pay. It is about the cost of unequal pay.
So we call on those who fund our work to make the right choice – to put community services at the top of the list of priorities.
That is only fair. It is only just. It is only right. And it’s about time.
And we give them fair warning – if they don’t, then they will face the consequences. Not just angry community sector workers but angry services providers and communities.
We will not go away and we are determined to win. Photo: Kate Incerti
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 17 Victim support
Victim support integral to prosecutions: National Conference told
Support of victims and witnesses was integral to the criminal prosecution service and the Office of Public Prosecutions (OPP) recognised it played a significant role in achieving this, the Solicitor for Public Prosecutions Craig Hyland has told a national conference. Photo: Janusz Molinksi Jennifer Williams, left, and OPP WAS Social Worker Anne O’Brien
The conference was attended by WAS workers from the Northern Territory, New South Wales, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania, Victoria and the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. Representatives of the Child Witness Service
Photo: Janusz Molinksi in Victoria and Western Australia also attended. Solicitor for Public Prosecutions Craig Hyland Jenna Tuke, the Directorate Manager of the Victims Strategy and Services Directorate (VSSD) at the Victorian OPP, said the “Our solicitors and prosecutors frequently acknowledge the conference offered an invaluable opportunity for social workers skills and expertise our witness assistance workers provide in in a highly specialised field to share ideas. Witness support of victims and witnesses,” Mr Hyland told the “We learned about developments in each state that have Assistance Service (WAS) National Conference . impacted on the experience of victims of crime as they navigate “They value their efforts in explaining and demystifying legal the criminal justice system,” Ms Tuke said. processes, translating legal language and concepts into plain In recognition of the significance of victim support within the language, and, importantly, providing a human face among the Victorian OPP, the VSSD was formed in 2008 and is part of the often intimidating and confusing legal system.” OPP’s legal practice alongside other Directorates such as Complex Mr Hyland officially opened the biennial conference which was Crime, Specialist Sex Offences and Regional Prosecutions. attended by about 30 victim support workers from seven states The Victorian WAS team, which is part of VSSD, has social and territories. workers dedicated to assisting victims and witnesses of serious Developments and ideas in the support of victims of crime were crime and their families. Assistance can include attending explored and discussed at the conference which was held from meetings and court hearings with victims, providing updates on 23-25 March. the progress of cases, explaining victims’ rights and entitlements, and referral to other support services. Jennifer Williams, whose 18-year-old son Christopher was fatally stabbed with an umbrella at a tram stop in 2003, said she interrupted a family holiday in Queensland to address the conference because she wanted knowledge to be gained from her pain and anguish. Ms Williams was the first person in Victoria to read her Victim Impact Statement (VIS) to a court. She spoke of the importance of having the opportunity to share a VIS with the court, saying she wanted her son’s story on file and for him not to be just a victim number. Ms Williams said she would not have been able to cope with the two criminal trials that followed her son’s death without the “patient, compassionate and professional attitude” of the police Photo: Janusz Molinksi informant, the prosecution team and OPP WAS social worker. Jenna Tuke, Directorate Manager of the OPP’s Victims Strategy and “They are the most important people I have ever met,” she said. Services Directorate and AASW member
18 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 Reconciliation Survey
The AASW’s Member survey Reconciliation Listening to members Earlier this year, members were asked to complete an AASW Action Plan (RAP) survey. We use the responses to this, and the survey carried out in 2009, to monitor our performance and to guide our work. The Board has funded the preparation of a Reconciliation Many thanks to the members who took the time to complete it. Action Plan or RAP for the AASW. The RAP is a tool that Results of the survey will be published in the members’ area of assists the Association to build positive relationships between the website. social workers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, as well as between Indigenous and non-Indigenous social Why do social workers join and renew workers. The RAP turns good intentions into clear, measurable their membership? actions that will support equity and social justice and provides The most common reasons for joining and staying a member a format for exploring how reconciliation can advance the are: access to professional information and resources; objectives of the AASW. professional status; professional development activities; and insurance. The RAP will be a resource which our members can adapt within their workplace, profession and community and in this These responses are useful. They assist us in meeting way promote wider engagement in the reconciliation process. members’ needs, and in describing our work to members and potential members. It will be the public contribution of the AASW towards the national effort to close the unacceptable life expectancy gap and Who responded to the survey? other Indigenous disadvantage between Aboriginal and Torres 762 completed surveys (representing approximately 13% of the Strait Islander Peoples and the broader Australian population membership). This is a decent response rate and the sample size and address other aspects of ATSI rights and disadvantage. allows us to draw conclusions which are largely representative of AASW member Christine King has stepped down from her the membership overall, particularly as the characteristics of the position on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander National respondents are largely in line with the demographics of members. Working Group to undertake the Association’s RAP. Christine’s The gender balance (81% female), the balance between full and previous employment at Reconciliation Australia equips her part time employees, the sector of work (40% in state public ideally to prepare the Plan. departments or agencies, 22% in the community sector and 19% Developing a meaningful RAP takes time and the process in private practice), and the spread across the branches is consistent involves considerable consultation, however, the final product is with our membership. This enables us to be fairly secure that the a simple, easy to read plan of no more than five pages. results can be applied across the wider membership.
Christine will be conducting consultations with all state and ‘Customer’ service – how well do we territory Branches between July and September with a draft respond to members? RAP developed by November this year to go to the Board for The 2009 survey asked identical questions, allowing the AASW approval. The Plan should be finalised in early 2012. to compare its performance over time: We will keep you informed about the progress of the RAP and • In 2011, 4% of respondents rated their most recent contact opportunities to contribute to its development. with the national office as poor (75% reported it was excellent or good). In 2009 these figures were 8% poor and 74% excellent or good respectively. Horizon Career Centre • In 2011, 8% of respondents rated their most recent contact with their branch as poor (60% reported it was excellent or Are you a social worker, good). In 2009 these figures were 5% poor and 82% excellent looking for locum work? or good respectively. Advertise your capabilities and availability on Horizon How engaged are AASW members in – only $50 + GST for AASW members AASW business? – $250 + GST for non-members – advertisement is for one year. • 29% of members who responded report they gave the new www.horizonemployment.com.au Code of Ethics a cursory glance, didn’t look at it at all, or don’t Ph. 1300 731 314 recall receiving it (42% read it line by line or thoroughly)
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 19 Survey
• 51% of respondents report they are not aware of the free participated in the campaign and thought that the AASW did a ethics consultation service very good job. • Over 70% of respondents report they rarely or never refer to More than half of the respondents (54%) reported participating the Code of Ethics or to the Practice Standards (5% report they in the campaign. The most common ways of participating were: look at each of these weekly or more often). contacting other people in their network to encourage their More than half of the respondents (52%) report that they never support; contacting their local MP or Senator; contacting the or rarely read paper publications from their branch, while Federal Government (Minister or Prime Minister) or Opposition national e-bulletins are MOST likely AASW publication to be or Minor Parties/Independents; or contacting the AASW. read (only 17% report they rarely or never read them). Members were also asked for feedback about various aspects of On the other hand, 57% of members who responded say the AASW’s work on Better Access. they access the AASW website at least once a month, and • 74% of respondents rated the AASW’s overall performance 91% reported that they get an acceptable amount of email as excellent or very good (1% rated it poor or very poor, 7% communication from the AASW. didn’t know) These results seem to suggest that while some members are • 70% rated the AASW’s engagement with Government as closely connected to our work and publications, there is a excellent or very good (1% poor or very poor, 10% don’t know) sizeable group of members who are not aware of some of our • 70% rated the AASW’s engagement with members as most important recent work. excellent or very good (2% poor or very poor, 7% don’t know) • 54% rated the AASW’s engagement with the media as excellent Better Access (Medicare) or very good (4% poor or very poor, 12% don’t know) It’s clear from the responses that last year’s successful campaign • 95% of members who responded reported that they thought against the exclusion of social workers from the Better Access our work on Better Access was vital or very important. 1% (Medicare) program was a high water mark for the vast reported it was not very important or of very little value. majority of ordinary members. A large proportion of members
Forum for Australian Social Workers -strengthening our profession
Karen Healy Christine Craik
Maria Merle Cindy Smith
Protecting professional standards Join our mailing list: [email protected]
20 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 Survey Letters to the Editor
• 40% of members who responded reported that the campaign Dear Editor has had a great deal or a fair amount of impact on them. I am writing this letter because I am becoming increasingly Branch events disheartened by the process surrounding the Pathways Proposal.
More than half the respondents report that they didn’t attend I am one of those ‘slippery fish’ the AASW is trying to catch any branch events in the past year. The most common reasons – an AASW member under the age of 30! Though I have only for non-attendance being: been an AASW member for the past year, previously choosing to be a member of my union as I am unable to afford membership • No time 43% of respondents to both. • Too far 39% of respondents • Not relevant 34% of respondents. On 9/6/11 I went to a meeting organised by the Victorian branch to further discuss the Proposal. While those attending The membership survey provides a valuable ‘snapshot’ of how this meeting were predominantly very concerned with or members are feeling towards the AASW, and the level of interest opposed to the Proposal, their views cannot be entirely ignored. and engagement in a range of AASW activities. The responses It will be very dangerous for the AASW National Board to help to shape our work, and help us to learn how to further ignore the disquiet and concern their members are expressing; improve the services and programs we provide. pushing through the Proposal without members coming to a consensus (put it to a vote!) could be detrimental to the AASW.
What is being proposed is an association of allied welfare Letters to the Editor professionals, no longer an association solely representing the interests of social workers. Does OT Australia represent allied health assistants? Or does the Australian Psychological Pathways Association represent all counsellors? No – because while these professions have some similarities they are simply not the same Dear Editor, thing. How can an association representing multiple professions At its February meeting, the Council of Heads of Schools of hold true to the values of just one? Social Work voted overwhelmingly to oppose the AASW’s I can only speak on my own behalf, but also know that from Pathways initiative. The Council believes that the Pathways many conversations my peers that most feel the same. If the initiative will erode social work identity and severely weaken the Proposal is pushed through then I would cancel my membership political strength and presence of the social work profession. to the AASW and opt back to my union. With all respect to my As a profession which does not enjoy a protected title or learned and more experienced social work colleagues, and to registration, our greatest strength lies with a professional those life members who have worked so hard for all the amazing association that has clear boundaries around who is a ‘social work done by the AASW – if the AASW no longer has the best worker’ and what they should do. Passage of the Pathways interest of social workers at heart then the AASW ship can sink, proposal will mean that we will no longer have a distinctly and we will build a new representative body. professional social work association; instead, we will have a Alys-Marie Manguy, Victoria. hybrid association composed of human services workers, allied professions and social workers.
Without social work registration – which should be the AASW’s Note from the Editor primary goal – the Council believes that the profession requires The AASW welcomes all members’ comments and feedback on the an association with membership limited to graduates of Pathways proposals. There is a forum on the website and members accredited social work programs or those who have comparable can have their say there as well. There will soon be a discussion international credentials. If social work registration was paper on the proposals which will be circulated widely, to be successful and we had a protected title, the Council would followed by consultation and a survey of members. reconsider its position on the Pathways proposal.
In the end, the Pathways initiative severely limits the voice of social workers by placing it as being one of many even within its own professional association. As such, the Pathways proposal weakens rather than strengthens our profession. Natalie Bolzan Executive of the Council of Heads of Schools of Social Work NOW OPEN FOR MEMBER APPLICATIONS
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 21 Articulating our strengths
Articulating our strengths Marie-Claire Cheron-Sauer AASW National Vice President
It has been a privilege to serve Our strategic priorities include the current review of the on the AASW National Board Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards for the past three years – in (ASWEAS) and the review of the Social Work Practice 2009 as a director and in 2010 Standards for Entry Level Social Workers. National Registration and 2011 as Vice President remains one of our key priority areas, with significant work (Education). Membership currently being undertaken. There have been many more of the AASW Board is a position that comes with many achievements, too many to include in this piece. responsibilities, including: This work is not achieved by one individual or indeed by the • representing the interests of members; Board as the formally elected body with governance of the • being the guardian of the standards for the profession; organisation. The key term that springs to mind, when I think • taking actions that enhance the status and profile of social about my involvement in the AASW over the past six years, work in the community; and is the phrase ‘collective leadership’. Collective leadership is about many people participating, offering their time, expertise • promoting the profession as a key voice in policy areas that and skills to realize something greater than themselves. Each impact on the quality of life of Australians, in particular, of us has something to contribute to the development of the the vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalised groups in profession. Collective leadership is about allowing each person our society. to contribute in their particular ways to definitively position the Being a member of the AASW Board requires asking hard profession to fulfil its mission. We all have an opportunity and a questions, entertaining new approaches, and investigating responsibility to be part of this collective leadership. how things might be done differently in order to best serve the There is a great deal of work to be done for the profession and profession and the communities that we serve. It requires the social work is facing some critical challenges in Australia, not ability to have a dual focus on those external environmental least of which include an ageing demographic profile, a generally factors that impact on the profession, and also on those internal low profile with mixed status and intensified job competition factors that impact on the capacity of the association to fulfil its for our professionals in the workforce. mission and organisational purpose. The most current data tells us that 50% of social workers are Membership of the Board requires a significant time 50 years and over, which suggests a strong replacement demand commitment to attend meetings; to participate in planning due to expected retirements in the next few years. There is a and development; to be fully informed and to problem solve shortage of professional social workers in Australia, identified for the profession and the association. This commitment is, by DEEWR and Health Workforce Australia (HWA). A however, matched by the reward of seeing beneficial outcomes real concern for our profession is that if social workers are for the profession. not available to fill these roles, they will be filled by other My observations, over the past six years of formal involvement professionals in the workplace and social work as a profession with the AASW, are that there have been many great outcomes will shrink proportionately, with lesser influence than it for the profession and the AASW including, since 2008, a currently has. In the current competitive environment, once higher, more positive public profile through increased advocacy, social work specific roles and positions are being replaced and a range of submissions in key policy areas, including with more generic roles, with a mix of professionals vying for invitations to the Federal budget lock ups over the past three these positions. years. On 1 July 2011 we launched the Australian College There are currently too few graduates of social work across the of Social Work, which recognises and promotes advanced country to meet sector workforce demands. Our profession practice and qualifications. The College will be the leader in the needs more social work graduates and our industry needs development of advanced and specialised practice standards and this urgently. Our schools of social work need more student will have a role in the accreditation of advanced post graduate enrolments and to do this, they need better resourcing from qualifications in social work. We have a new Code of Ethics and their universities and support to be able to attract quality a new CPD policy, which recognise the principle of ‘life long students to social work as a first degree choice. This is learning’ and the responsibility of all professional social workers increasingly difficult in a competitive environment, which will to maintain and develop their knowledge and skills throughout become even more so, as a student demand driven funding their careers.
22 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 Articulating our strengths
system, a policy decision of the Federal government, is This begs the question: What claims do we have to a specific implemented from 2012. body of knowledge, skills and expertise that no one else has? In Australia, in contrast to some other countries, such as the Students make both value based and pragmatic career choices as UK, NZ and the US, social work is not a registered profession. they decide about tertiary and higher education. These choices Social work is, in some countries, identified as the lead are largely based on considerations of future employability, profession for some areas of work in the social sector, notably future salary earning potential, as well as the external status and working with children and families and child protection. In profile of the profession they are selecting. Social work has a contrast, social work in Australia is not identified as the lead mixed status in the community. There is often confusion about profession in any area of work in the social sector. There is no what it is that we do as a profession and what is distinctive legislation that protects the title of ‘Social Worker’ and outlines about social work. All too often, social work is only visible in an area of expertise. This poses an enormous challenge to our the media, when there is a problem, such as, for example, a claims for specialised knowledge and skills, which is not made poorly managed child protection matter, where the case worker, easier by the paucity of the research base for social work here castigated as having been at fault in the matter, is identified as a and internationally. There is clearly much work to be done and, ‘social worker’ which is in many cases an inaccurate description. in many areas, to both develop the profession and to strongly Social work is all too often portrayed negatively and the many position the AASW as an authoritative voice in key areas of successes remain largely invisible. practice and policy.
Potential students and those advising them (that is, their We have very good reason, as an association and a profession, to parents, teachers and other significant adults) do not generally be proud of who we are, and of our knowledge and our skills. have a clear understanding of what it is that social workers do. We should be confident in the contribution that we make to the
Horizon Career Centre – website relaunched
Many social workers and employers now immediately call up the Horizon Career Centre when looking for career opportunities or resources, or they have a vacancy to fill. Over the three years since it was created the Horizon Career Centre website has seen a growth of over 40% each year in unique visits, with over 3800 social workers and potential employers now visiting the site every month and over 600 job vacancies being posted every year.
This month we are completely upgrading the website with a totally new set of graphics to reflect the style of AASW and to emphasise that Horizon is an integrated part of the services AASW provides to the social work sector.
In addition Horizon is modernising to an online payment system to replace the cumbersome invoicing and payments system. This means that all advertisements and services will be paid for using a credit card at the time of placing advertisements.
Finally Horizon is expanding its services to provide a locum service to advertisers and employers. Social Workers who are available to provide short or long term locum or sessional services will be able to advertise their services in our searchable have the opportunity to place advertisements for locum locum database where potential employers can read of their skills vacancies themselves. and capabilities for locum services. Employers will be able to If you want to know more please call the Horizon hotline: search by skill category, location or employment type, but will still 1300 731 314 or visit us at www.horizonemployment.com.au
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 23 Articulating our strengths
wellbeing of individuals, families and the communities we serve. of specialised knowledge and skills in a range of domains, to However, we need to better articulate our strengths and our intervene at different sites to better the quality of life of those areas of expertise to others. we serve.
As a profession, we need to engage in ongoing dialogue and I look forward to your views on what is unique about social action about these matters. We need to better define and work and our claims to a specialised and distinctive body of articulate our core competence, and our distinctive knowledge knowledge and skills. It is part of our collective leadership base. Understanding and articulating these strengths, will responsibilities to contribute to this dialogue. further develop and cement the social work identity of our graduates and assist them in their workplaces, where the expert status of social work may be contested, as they engage with other professionals in the workplace. This confidence in ‘knowing’ will also equip our graduates to be ambassadors for the profession, no matter where they work, in what capacity and don’t miss out at what stage of their careers.
In my view, the strengths of social work include our ability Find out more about the AASW’s activities to understand that the conditions of our lives – that is, our – make sure we have your correct email address and that we have permission to contact you. families; the communities and the societies in which we live; the policy framework of our nations; the political struggles of the countries in which we live; and, last but by no means least, Email our natural environment – shape our identities in the most [email protected] profound ways and have a lot to do with the kinds of human beings we become and the way we live our lives. Our strength is our ability to understand this complexity, and through mastery
Australian Association of Social Work and Welfare Educators (AASWWE) Footprints: Social work and human services education making its mark Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, 29 – 30 September 2011
Australian social work and human services education is conducted in an increasingly complex environment where issues such as welfare reform and natural disasters impact on learning opportunities and service delivery. The voice of service users illuminate dichotomies of needs directed service provision and the limitations of welfare defined by a market economy. Students experience a range of conditions such as work/study life tensions, remote learning and rural placements that impact on field placements.
Topics for the symposium will include: - Field Education - Distance education and remote placement - Disasters - Social Policy and the service user voice - Field Placement panel - Writing for Publication workshops - Ethical Issues in Field Placement workshops.
This two day symposium will be hosted by AASWWE and Griffith University. Take advantage of early bird registration. This is an AASW Endorsed CPD For event registration information please visit: Event. Attending AASW member www.aaswwe.asn.au can claim 2 CPD points per hour. MHCA
Mental Health Council of Australia Dr Valerie Gerrand AASW Representative MHCA
The AASW and the MHCA Australian Medical Association, the General Practice Computing Group, Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia and the In 2007, I took over from Professor Robert Bland as the AASW Australian Drug Foundation and, earlier in his career, worked representative on the MHCA, then In November 2009, stood and as a youth worker. His appointment has been widely welcomed was elected to a general member vacancy on the MHCA Board. and he has already shown his readiness to consult with In this short article, I would like to update Bulletin readers stakeholders. On 8 July, Frank was appointed to the Minister’s about the following MHCA activity: Mental Health Expert Working Group.
• Community mental health – the two MHCA July 2010 Since taking up the MHCA position, Frank has circulated a position statements; weekly CEO’s update to MHCA members, which is invaluable • Frank Quinlan’s recent appointment as the new MHCA CEO; for keeping track of developments at a busy time in mental • MHCA’s submissions to the Productivity Commission on the health. This includes the May mental health budget initiatives, proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS); and the Budget Implementation Workshops which the MHCA will run over the next few weeks, and the recent announcement of a • The recent MHCA Members' Policy Forum in June. Senate Inquiry into the funding and administration of mental Community Mental Health health services, to report in August this year. The interim report of the National Health and Hospitals MHCA submissions to the Productivity Reform Commission (NHHRC), released in December 2008, Commission on the proposed National showed a worryingly limited grasp of the nature of community Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) mental health in Australia. Specifically, it portrayed community mental health as merely a component of primary healthcare. The proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme has This ignored the critical role of specialist mental health services potentially wide-ranging benefits for people with psychiatric delivered in community settings, including clinical treatment as disabilities and their families, as well as for people with physical well as rehabilitation and recovery support, all of which are key or intellectual disabilities. The Productivity Commission was areas of social work practice. given the responsibility of producing a report on how this scheme could operate. Following concerns raised at the MHCA Members Policy Forum in November 2009, I volunteered to develop a MHCA In its draft report released in February this year, the Commission position paper on the principles and role of community mental seemed to be sidelining psychiatric disability as too difficult to health. The MHCA position paper had two aims. It sought include in a first stage introduction of an NDIS. This appeared to broaden the NHHRC report’s presentation of community based on the lack of readily available data on the number mental health and to act as a resource document for MHCA of people with high support needs due to severe psychiatric members and the public more generally. Interested MHCA disability, and also a concern that the level of disability and need members contributed to developing the statement and drafts for support could fluctuate. were circulated for discussion at the May 2010 Members’ Policy This stance by the Commission has rightly alarmed the mental Forum. The final result was two documents: a statement of health sector, as if people with psychiatric disability are not principles for community mental health, and a background included in the first trial of an NDIS, they are likely to remain paper identifying what community mental services covered and excluded into the future. To counter this, the MHCA has their relationship to primary healthcare. These documents are now made two submissions to the Productivity Commission posted on the MHCA website: www.mhca.org.au/publications regarding the proposed NDIS pointing out for instance, that Appointment of Frank Quinlan as CEO fluctuations in disability levels and associated support needs also occur for people with physical disability, such as multiple Frank Quinlan started as Chief Executive Officer of the MHCA sclerosis. See http://www.mhca.org.au/submissions in April this year. He replaced David Crosbie, who resigned in late 2010 to move to the new Community Council for Australia. MHCA Members’ Policy Forum June 2011
Frank was formerly the Executive Director of Catholic Social The first MHCA Members’ Policy Forum for 2011 was held Services Australia. He has also held senior positions with the in Canberra in June. Elizabeth Sommerville and I attended on
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 25 MHCA
behalf of the AASW. The focus was largely on the mental health follow. Similarly, the federal government will soon be setting initiatives funded in the May federal budget. up a national mental health consumer peak body, again with a carers’ body to come next. In terms of peer workforce To provide some background, after the 2010 election, Mark developments, the NMHCCF is represented on the National Butler was appointed as the first federal Minister for Mental Peer Workforce working group. Health. One of his first actions was to ask the MHCA to organise a series of consultations around the country In The NMHCCF’s planned future activities: November/December last year. His aim was to hear directly • Use of one page advocacy briefs on key issues like housing, from consumers, families, clinical and NGO staff about their seclusion and restraint. issues. Undoubtedly this process influenced which initiatives got • An audit to be undertaken of states and territories in relation up in the budget. to consumer and carer participation Federal mental health budget initiatives • A cost-benefit analysis of the contribution to the mental health workforce by consumers and carers in both paid and In the morning session, we heard from David Pearson, unpaid positions. Minister Butler’s senior ministerial adviser. His presentation was refreshing as he focused on the overarching rationale of the • Involvement of consumers and carers in the training of mental budget initiatives, rather than just listing how much would be health professionals, particularly in rural and remote locations. spent on what and over what timeframe. He identified the key Grace Groom Lecture themes as follows: Forum participants then went to the Canberra Press Club to • Improve services across the lifespan, including children and hear Craig Hamilton give the annual Grace Groom Lecture, adults, e.g. health checks for three year olds which pays tribute to the late Dr Groom, the first CEO of the • Improve services for those with severe and persistent mental MHCA. Craig is a sports announcer with the ABC in Newcastle illness, e.g. care facilitators who has bipolar disorder. He gave a candid and articulate • Build on reforms to date, e.g. sub-acute beds account of his experiences as a consumer, highlighting the need • Increase the number of services and improve targeting, e.g. for more responsive services and the value of a supportive family ATAPS Tier 3 packages and workplace in his recovery process. • Use a cross-government approach to mental health reform – Afternoon Session: MHCA Priorities include housing, employment • Improve monitoring and accountability through National The afternoon session enabled members to identify key Mental Health Commission priorities for the MHCA to work on. This was undertaken in small groups, with reporting back to the whole group. MHCA • Develop a longer-term reform agenda with ten year road map staff recorded the issues, which will be circulated to members for reform. once written up. MHCA members then put questions to David, who answered as The next Policy Forum will be held in November. best he could. Questions ranged across many topics, such as how to ensure more housing and support packages for consumers, Summary the lack of attention in the initiatives to workforce gaps and the need for a national anti-stigma campaign. I will not attempt to If you would like further information on this report or the summarise them here. activities of the MHCA, please contact me via email at [email protected] Consumer and carer perspectives on current issues Horizon Career Centre Kieran Booth from the NMH Carer and Consumer Forum (NMHCCF) gave an overview of current concerns: • Inclusion of psychosocial disability in the NDIS Social Worker Employers • Improve physical health and dental health for consumers Find your next social worker appointment or locum at Horizon – a highly focused and very • Ensure mental health funding goes across the age spectrum. popular career website with an average of Kieran welcomed the inclusion of consumer and carer 3800 visitors per month. representatives on the National Mental Health Standing www.horizonemployment.com.au Committee. He noted that a ‘Consumers’ perception of care’ Ph. 1300 731 314 project was underway, with a comparable project for carers to
26 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 Obituary
Concetta (Connie) Benn 12 December 1926 – 18 March 2011
Concetta Benn was a most distinguished social In 1989 she was appointed Professor of Social Work worker and long-standing and serving member of at the University of Melbourne, a position she held the Victorian Branch. Her social work career has until 1991, when she was appointed as Chairperson ranged across the fields of direct practice, community of the Victorian Adult and Further Education Board. development, social policy and research, management From 2000 to 2004 she was employed as Chairperson, at the most senior levels and social work education. Northern Health Services Board, Victoria. In all Her social work achievements have been widely these positions, Concetta remained true to her social recognised by other bodies in the community and by work roots, and encouraged social workers employed her professional body. in these organisations to be active members of the AASW. Over almost half a century, Concetta Benn has made an outstanding contribution to many facets of the Concetta Benn held the positions of President AASW at both branch and federal levels. Her AASW and Vice President of the Victorian Branch of the activities, together with her extensive involvement in AASW for fifteen years from 1958 to 1972, and the provision of welfare, health continued her involvement at the federal level of the and education to the community, are those of a Association from 1971 when she was elected Federal committed social worker, and therefore Concetta Vice President of the Association. As well as her was nominated and awarded Life Membership of the contributions to the administration and management Australian Association of Social Workers. of the AASW, for many years Concetta was a regular participant, presenter and session chair at AASW Concetta Benn was awarded a Bachelor of Arts National Conferences and through these activities (1948) and a Diploma of Social Studies (1957) became widely known throughout Australia as an from the University of Melbourne. In 1977 she was inspirational social work leader and a committed and awarded a Master of Arts (Social Work) from the active member of the Association. University of Melbourne. Despite the demanding nature of the employment positions Her first position as a social worker was with the Victorian Concetta has occupied throughout her career, she has Mental Health Authority. This was followed in 1961 by an given generously of her time to membership of a range of appointment as Director of Social Work and Research with Commissions, Boards and Task Forces. The organisations Citizens Welfare Service in Melbourne, where she began her involved include VCOSS, the Italian Assistance Organization, career-long commitment to social work education, particularly the Brotherhood of St Laurence, the Social Welfare in the area of fieldwork placement provision and field education. Commission, the Victorian Social Justice Consultative Council, In 1972 she was appointed Manager, Family Service Centre with the Victorian Post Secondary Education Commission, the the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, a centre that has been widely Australian Broadcasting Commission, the Community Cultural recognised as pioneering moves towards the empowerment of Development Board of the Arts Council, the Victorian low-income people living in the inner Melbourne region. Consultative Committee on Rehabilitation, the Community In 1975 she received an Australian Government Post Graduate Consultative Committee of the Medical Practitioners’ Board, Award for Social Work and completed her Master of Arts the North West Hospital Board, the Victorian Court Network (Social Work) in 1977, and returned to the Brotherhood of and a range of Victorian University Councils. In all these St. Laurence in 1977 as Associate Director, Social Policy and positions, her commitment to the values of her profession and Research. In 1982 she took up an appointment as Head of her professional association remained constant. the School of Social Work at Phillip Institute of Technology, Her expertise made her a keenly sought person to undertake and followed this with a period of employment in senior reviews or consultancies for a range of social work and welfare- management positions with the Victorian Government, firstly as related organisations. These include the Victorian Ministry of Director of the newly established Social Development Division Consumer Affairs, the Social Work Departments of the Royal of the Department of Premier and Cabinet (1983–85), then Women’s and Royal Children’s Hospitals, Casa House, the as Deputy Director General, Community Services Victoria State Training Board, Anglican Marriage Education and (1985–88) and finally as Director, Older Persons Planning Counselling Service, Australian Greek Welfare Service and the Office, Community Services Victoria (1988–89). Myer Foundation.
volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • 27 Movie review
Concetta has received the following awards in recognition of Over more than half a century, Concetta Benn has made an her outstanding contribution to welfare, health and education: outstanding contribution to many facets of the AASW at both Order of Australia – 1995;Victorian Honour Roll of Women branch and federal levels. Her AASW activities, together with – 2002; The Centenary Medal – 2003; Doctorate of Laws her extensive involvement in the provision of welfare, health (Honoris Causa), University of Melbourne – 1992; Doctorate and education to the community, are those of a committed of Social Science (Honoris Causa), RMIT – 1993; Life social worker. The Australian Association of Social Workers is Membership, Brotherhood of St Laurence; Life Membership, saddened by the death of Connie and our thoughts are with her Drummond Street Relationship Centre; and Life Membership family and many friends. of the AASW.
Oranges and Sunshine: movie review Susan Gair
After a distressed young Australian woman accosts her in the street late one night in 1986 with an unbelievable story, Margaret Humphries, a busy Nottingham social worker, cannot forget the brief exchange. She chides herself for being less than appropriately sensitive and decides to do some further research on the unlikely tale. It soon becomes an explosive catalyst for her uncovering the mass deportation of more than 130,000 ‘orphaned’ children from Britain to Australia between the 1920s and 1970.
The film stars Emily Watson as the whistle blowing social worker. She appears to be well supported by David Wenham and Hugo Weaving, playing sad and damaged adults who were child victims of a unforgiving scheme that left them and many others with fractured lives; the legacy of a program condoned and even embraced by successive British and Australian governments. sandstone monolith built by unloved, abused, children who were told their parents were dead. Not everyone is pleased with The first half of the film focuses on Watson working relentlessly her determined inquires. to unearth the truth and help victims find their lost identity. In the second half the irretrievable damage done to these children I enjoyed this inspiring film and overall the sensitive threatens to overwhelm her as she visits the infamous Bindoon performances were strong and convincing. The pregnant pauses Boys Town. Run by Christian Brothers, Bindoon rises from its and composed body language displayed in the first half of the desolate yet striking Western Australian landscape, a defiant film by Watson seemed a bit like she was trying too hard to be a wise, attentive social worker. Nevertheless, I found it to be a moving story of a social worker fighting for justice for forgotten Australians. Two small brothers in my own extended family were such forgotten children. While others may not agree, I thought the film seemed to genuinely try to give voice to their experiences of pain, loss and confusion about why they were sent away like child convicts to survive scared and all alone in Australia.
I would give it ! Dr Susan Gair is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Work and Community Welfare, James Cook University, Townsville, North Queensland.
Oranges and Sunshine is in cinemas now, and available on DVD and Blu-Ray from October 5.
28 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 AASW MEMBER BENEFITS Members have access to a range of benefits through their AASW Member Benefits Program. Below is a selection of benefits that may be of interest to you.
Intrepid Travel Accor Hotels For travellers with a yearning Accor’s Away on Business Program will always offer you 10% off the to get off the beaten track, best available unrestricted rate at over 1600 hotels worldwide Intrepid opens up a whole including Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel and Mercure and5% off the new world of adventure travel. best available unrestricted rate at Ibis and All Seasons hotels. Explore the world’s most Visit your AASW amazing places – from the Member Benefits back streets of Asia, to the website to book wilds of Africa, the colourful online or simply call landscapes of Latin America, Accor Reservations the delicacies of Europe and ancient cultures of Australasia. on 1300 65 65 65 Members receive 10% off most Intrepid land tours. and quote company Accor ID code Visit your AASW Member Benefits website to view the fantastic AS85777. range of tours available, current special offers and to book online. Alternatively, phone 1300 364 512 and quote Promo Number 5116 at the time of booking.
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For more information on these and all your benefits, visit your AASW Member Benefits website www.memberbenefits.com.au/aasw or contact your AASW Member Benefits representative on Tel: 1300 304 551 Email: [email protected] Australian Association of Social Workers ABN 93 008 576 010 PO Box 4956 PRODUCT Kingston ACT 2604 Tel: 02 6232 3900 Fax: 02 6230 4399 ORDER FORM
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30 • AASW NATIONAL BULLETIN • volume 21 issue 3 spring 2011 FRSA National Conference Workforce and InnovatIon: Building Future CapaCity 8 – 10 November 2011 RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast QLD
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Pay as you go - no upfront fees Just see & book clients
Suitable for all practice sizes Electronic health records Benefit your clients Be e-health ready
Online bookings that protect your privacy Patient -e health profiles Medicare online claiming Find out more and sign up at: www.specialistlink.com.au/mhsw 1800 984 334 [email protected] Mark your diary now! Exploring the Relationships in Mental Health Health, Recovery and Wellbeing Asia Pacific Conference on Mental Health
Richmond Fellowship Asia Pacific Conference on Mental Health June 11-13, 2012 Perth, Western Australia
Mental Health is at the cross-roads. Changes are in the wind that will transcend philosophy, policy, practice and delivery. Decision makers at this conference will not merely consider but will most likely impact directly upon foundation issues regarding consumer and carer recognition, quality assurance, sustainable service delivery, value and worth. It is timely and appropriate that fundamental questions are posed by those who fund services, those who provide services and most importantly, consumers and their carers themselves. Undoubtedly this will spur robust debate around a whole raft of issues but one issue must be universally accepted: It is time for new relationships to evolve and within that new beginning we confirm and hold true the belief that consumers, with their support systems, are at the centre of any future developments in Mental Health. It is timely that we meet at this conference as organisations, groups and individuals who can make a difference. This is an exciting time. It may in fact be a unique opportunity to construct a shared view that leads us to a new horizon. The time to consider our connectedness, our relationship and our future is now and we at RFWA are delighted to bring so many crucial people together to engage in this process. Please go to http://www.rfwa.org.au/aspac2012/register/ to register your interest.
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