
How do I become a Peer Support Worker in Melbourne?
Get qualified to work as a Peer Support Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Course providers in Melbourne
The following providers offer Peer Support Worker courses in Melbourne, Victoria.






















Common questions
In Australia, a full time peer support worker generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There isn't specific data for peer support worker jobs, but general mental health support worker jobs appear to be on the rise. From 2019 to 2024, there is expected to be an approximately 29% national increase in jobs in the industry.
Source: Seek.com.au
To become a peer support worker, you often must have a Mental Health qualification. There are several potential nationally accredited learning pathways that can help you fulfil this requirement. A Certificate IV in Mental Health will take about 12 months to complete depending on if you study online, on campus or blend study modes and whether you study part time or full time. There is also a work placement component. A Diploma of Mental Health can take the same amount of time and have similar requirements. While neither of these qualifications guarantees employment, they are often considered a strong foundation for prospective employees.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Peer Support Worker
Further reading


What can you do with a Certificate IV in Mental Health?
28th October 2019
What do social workers do?
11th December 2019All peer support worker courses
- CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health
- CHC43215 & CHC43315 Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHC32015 Certificate III in Community Services
- CHC43515 Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work
- 10170NAT Course in Community Breastfeeding Mentoring
- 22567VIC Certificate I in Transition Education
- CHCSS00133 Induction to Disability Support
- CHCSS00084 Lead and Support Colleagues
- HLT64115 Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health)
- CHCSS00103 Mental Health Peer Work Skill Set
- Undergraduate Certificate in Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
- CHC43515 Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (Consumer Peer Work)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Principles of Health Promotion
- 22532VIC Course in Supporting People with Psychosocial Disability
- CHC40512 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHCSS00130 Individual Support - Disability
- 22469VIC Course in Introduction to the National Disability Insurance Scheme
- Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
- 11201NAT Certificate III in Women's Advocacy
Peer Support Worker careers
If you're interested in making a meaningful difference in people's lives, exploring Peer Support Worker courses in Melbourne is a great place to start. With 13 courses available, including beginner options, you can find a programme that suits your skill level and career aspirations. Among the most popular beginner courses are the Certificate III in Community Services and the Mental Health Peer Work Skill Set, both designed to provide foundational knowledge for new learners. Other options such as the Course in Introduction to the National Disability Insurance Scheme also allow you to gain crucial insights into support work in our diverse Melbourne community.
For those who already possess experience or qualifications, Melbourne offers several advanced courses tailored to elevate your expertise in the field. The Certificate IV in Mental Health and the Diploma of Mental Health are excellent choices for individuals looking to deepen their understanding and skills. Additionally, the Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health offers a comprehensive path for those wishing to work in multiple support arenas. These courses are delivered by reputable training providers in Melbourne, such as Kangan Institute, RGIT, and ALACC Health College, ensuring you receive quality education from recognised institutions.
The vibrant city of Melbourne, rich in cultural diversity and community needs, is the perfect backdrop for your journey into peer support work. By enrolling in one of the available Peer Support Worker courses in Melbourne, you are set to learn from the very best in the industry while gaining practical skills that can be applied in real-world settings. You could explore courses like the Individual Support - Disability or the Course in Supporting People with Psychosocial Disability to understand various aspects of the support landscape. With supportive institutions like New Futures Training and Chisholm Institute available, you’re in excellent hands as you embark on this rewarding career path.