Social Worker jobs in Illawarra NSW

Looking for a way to make a real impact on our community? Be at the forefront of a dynamic workforce utilising innovative, evidence-based skills and interventions to professionally support people requesting assistance with alcohol and drug use. We listen to understand, not label.

$79,419 – $92,801 per annum + 12% super & salary packaging | Temporary Full Time until December 2027 (Position to commence January 2027) | Nowra Drug & Alcohol | REQ701134 | Applications close: 8 November 2026

Are you a recent Social Work graduate or due to complete your qualification by December 2026 who will be ready to launch your career? We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Drug and Alcohol 2027 New Graduate position, offering a unique opportunity to begin your career in a supportive and rewarding specialty area!

Join us in shaping healthier futures. Together we can do more.

Provides safe, compassionate, person centred care to clients and their family/carers to ensure the provision of evidence-based interventions and optimal health outcomes consistent with ISLHD policies, procedures, standards, relevant legislation, and the NSW Health Code of Conduct.

For more information and to view the position classification, see the Position Description here.

A little about us.

In the Shoalhaven, ISLHD operates three hospital sites: David Berry Hospital, Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital and Milton Ulladulla Hospital.

There are many benefits of living and working in the Shoalhaven. The region is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, waterways and National Parks - with Jervis Bay and Kangaroo Valley only a short, 20-minute drive away – and is also host to many annual food and arts festivals and events.

Benefits of working with ISLHD.

We understand that balancing career aspirations with the demand of the everyday, as well as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, can be a challenge. To help with this, we offer a range of benefits which include:

- Allocated Days Off (ADO) - once a month take a paid day off (eligible full-time employees)

- Salary packaging - less tax and more take-home pay

- Novated leasing - lease a car and pay for all running costs out of your pre-taxed salary (eligible full-time employees)

- Fitness Passport - discounted gym membership that both you and your family can enjoy (eligible employees)

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - free confidential and professional assistance for staff and their families

• Career progression, professional development and secondment opportunities

now by reading the Position Description, then, using our online portal, submit a resume and answer the selection criteria within the application. In addition, please note you must have the following essential requirements:

• Applicable vaccination requirements for a Category A role

• Working With Children Check (WWCC)

• Social Work degree and eligibility for the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)

• Valid NSW Drivers Licence

This is a temporary position until December 2027

ISLHD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

ISLHD is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health’s commitment to implementing the Child Safe Standards. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.

Need more information or help applying?

• Visit the ISLHD website for application tips, to learn more about ISLHD and other important application information.

• Visit the Stepping Up website here. Stepping Up supports Aboriginal people to navigate the recruitment process and find a career or employment in NSW Health.

• Visit The Welcome Experience website here. The Welcome Experience is a free service supporting essential workers (and their families) who are considering applying for or have accepted a job in regional NSW.

• Follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

• For role-related queries or help applying, contact Bernadette Hiriart on Bernadette.Hiriart@health.nsw.gov.au

ISLHD acknowledges that our health district is located on the unceded lands of the Aboriginal people who are the Traditional Custodians of the NSW South Coast.