Recording Subject Matter Expert (SME) referrals in the Social Work Information System (SWIS) 003-20111006

If a staff member observes behaviour that raises concerns about a child's safety they should follow the agency's Risk Identification and Reporting model. This is in line with a zero tolerance approach to harm of children.

For more details about this model, see:

• Risk identification and management of threats to the safety and welfare of a child, and,
• the agency's commitment to child safety

All SME referrals and contacts must be recorded in SWIS and a report completed.

The completion of a report is important for the:

• customer if they want to appeal further, and
• original decision maker if the decision is set aside

The SME is an experienced social worker in a team who is independent of the original decision. SME explanations of social work decisions are completed by:

• APS6 social workers who are chosen as SMEs or,
• by EL1 Social Work Support Managers

The role of the SME cannot be performed by:

• the social worker who made the decision, or
• a social worker who has been involved in the process at any stage

For more details about the SME role, see SME explanations, ARO referrals and implementing ARO decisions.