We are a community of social workers
We have over 3,800 members who work throughout the country in a variety of roles and organisations - from statutory social workers through to community social workers. Being a part of our community means you are able to connect with other like-minded individuals. We have an online community for members to connect, discuss, and share resources with each other.
We have a number of branches, rōpū, special interest groups, and online communities of practice that operate throughout the motu (country). Through becoming involved with us, you become part of our community.
We develop, support, and protect social workers
We develop and support social workers throughout their career. We provide regular professional development opportunities throughout the year. We run regular, often free, webinars for members, along with a host of other professional development events. Non-members are able to join our professional development events for a small fee. We also have a library of pre-recorded webinars members are able to access.
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in research. We publish a free, internationally-reputable, online journal, Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work. We advertise opportunities to participate in research.
We also have a social work jobs board to find your next career move.
Professional indemnity insurance
We provide all members with professional indemnity insurance as a benefit of membership. Professional indemnity insurance provides you with protection and coverage should a complaint arise about your practice. Should there be a complaint about your practice (whether to your employer or to the Social Workers Registration Board), your insurance provides you access to a lawyer who will support you and provide you with advice.
We are not able to provide support or coverage for employment disputes (unless it is directly related to your social work practice) as we are not a union.
We enhance your professional identity
Being a member of ANZASW enhances your professional identity. Through being a part of our community of social workers you are committing to the highest level of ethical practice by agreeing to practice in accordance with our Code of Ethics. Being a member of ANZASW means you can assure your employers you are committed to the highest standards of professional standards and practice.
Being a part of ANZASW means you are part of our network of social workers who share similar professional attitudes, values, knowledge, beliefs, and skills. This means you will strengthen your professional identity through connecting with those around you.
We promote the social work profession
As your professional association, we are advocating for social workers across Government and employers. We provide a voice for the social work profession and speak out on issues affecting social workers. We provide comment to the media on issues affecting social workers.
We advocate for social change and justice
Social work is concerned with advocating for social change and justice. We advocate on a range of social justice issues and for social change where this is needed. We do this through completing submissions on legislation, advocating and lobbying to Government, and raising awareness where it is required.