Peer Mentoring Program

Lived experience. Shared interests. Real-world skills.

About the Program

The Peer Mentoring Program supports autistic young people aged 16 years and over to build confidence, self‑awareness, and transferable life and work skills.

Participants (mentees) are supported by autistic mentors with lived experience, who provide guidance, encouragement, and practical support in an environment where identity, autonomy, and strengths are respected and celebrated.

From Learning to Practice

In Phase One, mentees take part in facilitated workshops over eight (8) weeks, focused on connection, self‑understanding, and lived experience. Together, the cohort explores:

• autistic identity and self‑awareness
• self‑advocacy and communication
• everyday life skills and employment readiness
• recognising personal strengths and interests

This phase provides a safe, affirming social environment where mentees can learn from each other and build confidence before moving into practical experience.

Phase 2: Supported Work Experience & Mentoring

From Learning to Leading | Real‑World Skills, Real Support

In Phase Two, mentees bring their learning into practice through supported work experience within Spectrum Space social programs. Mentees work one‑to‑one with Program Mentors and:

• share their interests, skills, and knowledge
• support younger autistic participants aged 10–15 years
• gain practical, real‑world experience in a supportive environment

This phase offers meaningful contribution, hands‑on learning, and the opportunity to develop confidence in mentoring, communication, and responsibility.

Program Aims & Outcomes

For Mentees (16+)

• Build self‑confidence and self‑understanding
• Strengthen communication, self‑advocacy, and everyday life skills
• Gain supported, real‑world experience in a neuroaffirming environment
• Contribute meaningfully to community programs
• Develop transferable skills that support long‑term independence, employment, or volunteering pathways

For Mentors

• Develop leadership and mentoring experience grounded in lived experience
• Actively contribute to the design and shaping of the program
• Further strengthen communication, facilitation, and support skills
• Have lived experience recognised as a valuable professional and community strength

As a pilot project, the program is co‑designed with participants. Mentor and mentee feedback, alongside research support from Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG), helps us understand impact and continuously refine the program to improve outcomes for future cohorts.

Want to Be Involved?

Does this sound like your kind of program?

Cohort One is underway, and the learning from this group is already shaping the next phase of the Peer Mentoring Program.

Cohort Two will commence Phase one in May – June 2026, and second phase in Term 3 or 4 2026.

If you’re interested in taking part in a future cohort, we invite you to submit an Expression of Interest.

This pilot project is generously supported by the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation.