The Institute of Health & Management (IHM) is a leading Australian provider of high-quality healthcare and human services education, committed to preparing future-ready professionals who create meaningful change in communities. With a strong focus on contemporary practice and industry-aligned learning, IHM delivers a range of accredited programs, including the Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Nursing, and Graduate Certificate in Nursing.
IHM is recognised for its dedication to student success, innovative teaching practices, and a supportive learning environment that champions ethical, person-centred and evidence-informed practice. Our Bachelor of Social Work program is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to excel as competent and compassionate practitioners in diverse community, health, and social service settings.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Lecturer and Field Education Coordinator (Social Work) to join the School of Social Work at the Institute of Health & Management (IHM).
In this pivotal role, you will lead and coordinate Social Work field education (placement) activities, ensuring high-quality, safe, and compliant workplace learning experiences aligned with AASW requirements and the Higher Education Standards Framework. You will collaborate closely with students, academic staff, placement partners, and governance groups to strengthen experiential learning and professional readiness.
As both an academic and a placement leader, you will enhance curriculum integration, support students throughout their placement journey, build strong industry partnerships, and contribute to continuous improvement, research, and innovation in field education.
Key Responsibilities:
Deliver and coordinate Social Work field education units, workshops, and placement preparation sessions.
Secure and manage high-quality placement opportunities aligned with AASW standards.
Build and maintain strong partnerships with agencies, community organisations, and stakeholders.
Monitor student progress during placements and provide timely academic and pastoral support.
Ensure compliance with AASW, TEQSA, WHS, and institutional policies and standards.
Oversee placement documentation, assessments, and quality assurance processes.
Collaborate with academic and placement teams to align placements with curriculum outcomes.
Contribute to policy development, governance committees, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Support research, scholarship, and innovation in practice education.
Uphold and promote IHM’s values of Innovation, Caring, Excellence, Honesty, Openness, and Trust.
Desired Skills and Experience
Qualifications
AASW-approved postgraduate qualification in Social Work (PhD desirable).
Eligibility for membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW).
Demonstrated understanding of AASW accreditation and TEQSA regulatory requirements.
Minimum 5 years full-time (or equivalent) post-qualifying Social Work practice experience.
Working With Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Check (or willingness to obtain).
Experience & Skills
Experience coordinating Social Work field education within Higher Education.
Strong knowledge of curriculum development, experiential learning, and placement governance.
Proven ability to lead, mentor, and supervise staff.
Demonstrated experience in student support, placement assessment, and liaison with host agencies.
Strong understanding of social work theory, ethics, cultural responsiveness, and contemporary practice.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in digital platforms including Canvas, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and research databases.
Knowledge of the Higher Education Standards Framework (2015/2021 as applicable).
Benefits
Ongoing Professional Development and Continuing Professional Learning (CPD) support.
Opportunities for research, scholarship, and leadership development.
Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and students.
Collaborative and inclusive academic culture aligned with IHM values of Innovation, Caring, and Excellence.
Commitment to Equity & Inclusion
All recruitment, selection, and promotion decisions are based on merit, capability, and alignment to the genuine requirements of the role.
IHM is committed to providing equal opportunity for all applicants, without discrimination based on protected characteristics under the Equal Opportunity Act.
Why join us?
"At IHM, we are more than an education provider—we are a dynamic community dedicated to excellence in healthcare education. Join us to be part of an innovative, supportive, and growth-driven environment where your contributions shape the future of healthcare. Elevate your career with purpose at IHM!."
Application Process:
If you are driven to advance social work education through high-quality practice learning, industry partnership, and student-centred placement experiences, we invite you to apply for this impactful role. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications, leadership experience, and motivation for joining our team as Placement Academic Lead..
All recruitment, selection and promotion decisions will be based on the best qualified and experienced candidate who can perform the genuine occupational requirements of this position. HCI supports diversity and inclusion, providing equal opportunity in employment to all suitably abled people without discrimination or harassment based on a personal characteristic protected under the Equal Opportunity Act. Indigenous Australians and Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders are also encouraged to apply for the position.
