Registration

In 2003 the Social Workers Registration Act was enacted with the purpose of increasing the accountability for the profession, enhancing the professionalism of Social Workers and protecting members of the public. In November of that year the Social Workers Registration Board (SWRB) was constituted as a crown entity and as such is entirely separate from ANZASW. The SWRB is responsible for establishing the criteria for registration of New Zealand and overseas qualified Social Workers, developing a code of conduct, establishing the policies and procedures for complaints and discipline, and setting up the registration database. Further details about the SWRB can be found at their website www.swrb.org.nz

At present registration is voluntary although many employers now require their staff to either be registered or eligible for registration. As part of becoming registered a Social Worker must provide evidence of having completed an approved competency assessment process. ANZASW provides an approved competency assessment process and further details can be found here.

The criteria for Registration can be found of the SWRB website but in broad terms require a Social Worker to demonstrate that they are a fit and proper person to be practicing social work, that they have a recognised social work qualification, that they are a competent practitioner and that they have enough practical experience. Please consult the SWRB website for the policy statements that cover these criteria.