Australian and New Zealand social workers adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This article examines how Australian and New Zealand social workers have adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic. The article draws on a literature review of international social work papers published during 2020 and a survey of social workers in Australia and New Zealand to determine the impacts on social workers. We find there are similarities in responses noted by social workers across the world including the enhanced use of technologies, difficulties supporting vulnerable clients and personal impacts in both work and home environments. There are also differences brought about by Australian and New Zealand social workers' prior experiences of disasters as well as issues with technology.