Elements in the Development of an Australian Radical Social Work

Abstract

This paper contends that there has been a limited sense of an Australian radical social work and attempts to redress that lack. Emphasis is given to tracing the emergence of a distinctive theory and practice through the literature over the past two decades. These developments are located in the changing policy contexts of their times and to related progress in other countries. Finally, the rich potential of feminist and empowerment ideas and methods are highlighted and presented as a basis for contemporary radical practice.