Peer Support Worker

Peer support workers play a key role in the mental health field, offering assistance and encouragement to those living with mental health issues. This includes not only those who have illnesses, but also friends, families and others impacted by illness. Peer support workers draw on shared experiences to determine the best course of action of patients and clients.

Peer support in mental health can take a variety of forms depending on what the circumstance calls for. Workers are deeply knowledgeable about available resources, and can help facilitate the use of or participation in support groups and other community services. Peer support can also take place on a personal level, with one-to-one visits and consultations centred on something as simple as socialising to more detailed plan-building and goal-setting.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $83,200
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a peer support worker?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
CHC43315

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Blended, On Campus, Online
6 - 18 months
$100 - $5,997
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
CHC50421

Diploma of Youth Work

Online
12 months
$7,995
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
CHC53315

Diploma of Mental Health

Online
12 months
$7,995
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
CHC43215 & CHC43315

Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health

Online
17 months
$5,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
CHC32015

Certificate III in Community Services

Blended, On Campus, Online
9 - 10 months
$191 - $2,700
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
CHC43015

Certificate IV In Ageing Support

On Campus, Online
12 months
$350 - $0
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
HLT64121

Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health)

On Campus
52 weeks
$2,010
  • Are employed as a Enrolled Nurse
Additional requirements may apply.
  • Are employed as a Enrolled Nurse
Additional requirements may apply.
CHCSS00103

Mental Health Peer Work Skill Set

Blended
3 months
$0 - $650
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Common questions

Further reading

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