An Innovative Partnership Model in Social Work Field Education

ABSTRACTNeo-liberalism has driven a crisis in Social Work Field Education (SWFE) globally, creating competition, funding cuts, increased workload, and limited capacity to support students. This has been exacerbated by widespread disruptions associated with the global pandemic and other disasters. This article outlines how one Australian university SWFE team has enhanced placement opportunities for students and industry during times of crisis, via a partnership approach. Outcomes include multiple student placements, joint initiatives, mutual relationship, and reciprocity, placing all students during a pandemic. The article contributes to addressing global SWFE challenges, provides a framework for consideration, and identifies areas for further investigation.IMPLICATIONSAn innovative SWFE partnership model can assist universities and industry to withstand global crises impacting placements.Committed partners and placements, collegial relationships, and a reference group that collaboratively sets agendas for agency and university increases placement opportunities for all students.KEYWORDS: Field EducationPartnershipPlacementSocial WorkCollaborationWork Integrated Learning (WIL)Australia AcknowledgementsThe authors would like to acknowledge Dr Patrick O’Keeffe and Dr Christina David (School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT) for providing valuable advice and guidance.Disclosure StatementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).