Australian Social Work students’ Views Towards Same-Sex Parenting

Despite majority public support for same-sex marriage in the 2017 postal plebiscite, there is ongoing concern about discrimination against same-sex attracted people, especially within social services. Understanding social work student views and how they align with social work values and ethics can inform service provision with same-sex parents. This study utilized an anonymous online qualitative survey of 136 social work students from four Australian universities. Results show general support for same-sex parenting, while also highlighting the existence of social work student views upholding or privileging heteronormativity, including regarding different-sex parents as better suited to raising children. These findings highlight a gap in social work education, underscoring the need for curricula that challenges heteronormativity and fosters inclusive practice, ensuring graduates are equipped to advocate for equity in diverse family contexts.