As a social worker of 40 years and member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW), I am deeply concerned about the direction our organisation is taking. Social work is a profession built on ethics, trust, and collaboration. However, recent actions and decisions made by the current CEO have not only breached these foundational principles but have also tarnished the reputation of our esteemed profession.

In particular, the CEO has demonstrated a lack of regard for a collaborative process to develop the Australian Social Work Education and Accreditation Standards (ASWEAS), an instrumental framework that ensures the quality and consistency of social work education and practice in Australia. She has ignored the serious concerns of the Australian Council of Heads of Social Work Education https://achswe.org.au/a-letter-of-serious-concern-regarding-the-release-of-the-asweas/ This has raised alarms about the future preparedness of emerging social workers, and ultimately, the safety and wellbeing of our communities.

Furthermore, there have been multiple instances where the collaboration with members and branches has been neglected with the active winding back of funding to grass roots branches so they become inoperable.  This despite the fact members voted to retain branches because of their grass roots value. This approach has stifled the voices of those on the ground, those who directly serve our communities and understand the nuanced challenges we face. The CEO has even gone so far as to threaten members with legal action, rather than listening to their legitimate concerns and expressed wishes. Such actions are not just disappointing, they are unacceptable and a betrayal of the trust members have placed in our leadership.

The push back of members’ expressed desires for change is a direct attack on the democratic processes that should steer our association. The publication to members of 2 letters to undermine Dr Richardson during the election process and then before he becomes a duly elected Board Director are the most current examples of this behaviour. AASW members have voiced their opinions, hoping for a more transparent, inclusive, and progressive future. Yet, these voices have not only been ignored they have been actively challenged by the CEO through her behaviour in releasing these letters. This behaviour does not reflect the core values of social work, which emphasize empowerment, respect, and community engagement.

Members saw in the recent elections that change is necessary. We must uphold the integrity and honour of our profession by addressing this issue head-on. Removing the current CEO and appointing a leader who embodies the true spirit of social work is essential for restoring trust and setting the AASW on a path that aligns with its core values.

We urge the Board of the Australian Association of Social Workers to act in the best interest of its members, the profession, and the communities we serve. Join us in calling for the immediate removal of the CEO to protect the ethics and reputation of social work in Australia.

Please sign this petition to demand accountability and transparency within our association. Your support is crucial in safeguarding the future of social work in Australia and ensuring that it remains a profession of integrity and honour.