Human Welfare Studies and Services is the study of social intervention designed to help persons, individually and collectively, maximise their social and economic wellbeing. 

The main purpose of this narrow field of education is to develop an understanding of the social, political and economic climate in which social policy is developed, administered and implemented, the social needs of individuals, groups and communities within society, the resources available to meet these needs, and the social influences that effect the behaviour and social functioning of people. It also involves developing an ability to plan and deliver welfare programmes, and organise resources to meet individual and community needs. 

Courses in Human Welfare Studies and Services develop skills in: 

  • assessing the welfare requirements of individuals and groups 
  • assisting individuals, groups and communities in relation to family and child welfare, probation and parole, housing, health and rehabilitation 
  • assisting individuals, groups and communities to utilise their own resources to improve their wellbeing 
  • communicating with young children, parents and other professionals 
  • mediating between and counselling individuals, groups and communities 
  • planning, organising and implementing programmes for the care of young children 

This field comprises the following detailed fields: 

  • Social Work
  • Children’s Services
  • Youth Work
  • Care for the Aged
  • Care for the Disabled
  • Residential Client Care
  • Counselling
  • Welfare Studies
  • Human Welfare Studies and Services, n.e.c. 

Exclusions: 

  • Health care. This is included in Health.
  • Developmental psychology. This is included in Psychology.

Thinking about a job in this field?

Check out the courses available in this field at various Australian universities and alternative study pathway options. If you'd like to speak with someone, discuss with your Career Advisor at school, or contact the Indigenous Education Unit at any of the Australian Universities, and they’ll be able to offer advice on available local information and student support services.

Further reading: http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/0/71CE5E5E9C28A12DCA256AAF001FCAAF?opendocument