Social Welfare Act 1960 (1960 - 1971)

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The full title is 'An Act to establish a Social Welfare Branch of the Chief Secretary's Department and to make provision with respect to the Functions of that branch and for other purposes.'

The Social Welfare Act 1960 reflects the development of Government policy in Victoria which began to emphasize an integrated approach to social welfare issues and the need for staff training and social research.

Consistent with the growing knowledge about child development and the benefits of children retaining contact with their families, the Social Welfare Department began to employ social workers to work with the families of children in care, something which had previously been done by unqualified administrative officers. The introduction of professional social workers also had a positive impact on planning, policy and program development within the Department.

The Social Welfare Act 1960 also recognised the importance of training for residential care and other staff and the Social Welfare Department established a Training Division which introduced training courses for staff from government and non-government institutions.

The Social Welfare Act 1970 (No.8089) repealed and re-enacted the Social Welfare Act 1960, on 5 January 1971.