Social worker

Social workers offer practical help

Social workers can give you information about housing or finances or other practical help. They can help you arrange to get money from Centrelink or find somewhere to live.

Social workers are available through community health centres, hospitals, and the Family/Community Services department in your state or territory. They are also sometimes located in schools.  

Like anyone else you talk to, if you do not feel comfortable with the first person you see, or if you think they are not listening to you, go and see someone different. Try not to give up.

Making an appointment

Usually you will need to make an appointment to see them. If you have made an appointment and want to talk to someone now, you can call Lifeline on 131 114 (cost of a local call from a landline) or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (free call from a landline, for people under 25).

Ask about confidentiality

It is a good idea to talk to the person you see about keeping your information private. Unless you say so, they have to keep what you tell them confidential, except in the following circumstances:

• They believe that you or someone else is at risk of serious harm.
• A court orders them to give up information.

For more information about your confidentiality check out the Confidentiality fact sheet.

There are other people to talk to

Have a look at our Who can help you section for more information.