This years’ theme is ‘Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing’, which highlights that care is everyone’s responsibility.
In recognition of World Social Work Day, we spent five minutes with dedicated Child Protection Worker, Martha, to hear about her experience as a social worker.
Martha recently participated in a panel discussion at UWA’s orientation week, where approximately 150 students who had just commenced their Bachelor or Masters of Social Work were in attendance. The panel members were provided with an opportunity to speak about the ‘day in the life of’ a social worker and discuss their diverse experiences.
When and why did you become a social worker?
"I graduated with a Masters of Social Work in 2023 from UWA after previously completing a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society. I have always had a strong passion for social justice. When I finished high school I wanted to become a lawyer to follow this passion, but during my undergrad studies I felt more drawn to relational work where you can still advocate for social change, which I feel social work captures well. So, I ended up in social work and can’t imagine doing anything else now!"
What is your work experience to date?
"I am still very new in my social work career and since graduating in December 2023 I have worked for the Department of Communities as a Child Protection Worker in an amazing care team full of brilliant and inspirational social workers.
"Before completing university, I worked in a few different community services roles, including disability support work, youth work, local government events management, and school social work. My final social work field placement was with Communities in the same team that I now work in. I love my current role because it is so diverse. It has really supported my growth to be working alongside colleagues with so much experience and empathy in the way they practice social work."
What are some of your proudest moments or memories?
"My proudest social work memories come back to moments when I’ve had that “social work buzz”– it’s a hard thing to describe but it’s a feeling of fulfilment when something clicks and the challenge you are facing brings about something meaningful. It doesn’t always mean that things turn out the way we hoped, because the reality of social work is that we can’t control all of the outcomes. However, it’s a feeling of practicing in line with your values and seeing positive change.
"Even on the hard days, these moments remind you of why you keep doing what you do. Working with children especially, I’ve had many special moments that have reinforced the importance of building trusting relationships, which is where you can begin to heal trauma."
What role do you see social workers play in creating a better future for Western Australians?
"Social workers should exist in every facet of society! Not only do we provide frontline support to vulnerable individuals and families, but we also advocate to address systemic issues. I strongly believe that social workers make excellent leaders because of our values of empathy, professional integrity and respect.
"I would love to see more social workers in schools and in community health, as those are prime areas for earlier intervention for families. Western Australia also has a long journey to reconciliation with Aboriginal people. Social workers play a huge role in this, where we must first acknowledge past and current practices and policies that have caused much trauma to Aboriginal people and families, and then reflect on how we can be more culturally responsive."
How do you think society can strengthen and more actively support respectful intergenerational solidarity for the enduring wellbeing of all?
"Social workers play a crucial role in social wellbeing and discussions around respect and community. I think that social workers could play a role in developing programs that foster mutual respect and collaboration between generations, particularly in schools.
"Living on Aboriginal land, we have so much to learn from Aboriginal people and Elders and would love to see this being integrated into education curriculum where knowledge is shared with children and young people. I think so many of the issues that I see working in child protection stem from a lack of respectful and secure relationships and if we can break this cycle from a young age in schools and through community programs, even in the media, I think it would be really beneficial for a society where people live interconnectedly with the perspective that personal wellbeing is directly linked to the wellbeing of others."
Social Workers make a huge difference in the lives of many vulnerable people, daily, and work tirelessly to help those in need. Mention a social worker below to show your appreciation!
To find out more about World Social Work Day 2025, visit World Social Work Day 2025 – International Federation of Social Workers.
