How do I become a Peer Support Worker in Wollongong?
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 Wollongong
The following providers offer Peer Support Worker courses in Wollongong, New South Wales.
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
- HLT64115 Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health)
- CHC40512 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHCSS00103 Mental Health Peer Work Skill Set
- 11201NAT Certificate III in Women's Advocacy
- CHC43515 Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work
- 22567VIC Certificate I in Transition Education
- Undergraduate Certificate in Principles of Health Promotion
- CHCSS00133 Induction to Disability Support
- 10170NAT Course in Community Breastfeeding Mentoring
- CHCSS00084 Lead and Support Colleagues
- CHC43515 Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (Consumer Peer Work)
- 22532VIC Course in Supporting People with Psychosocial Disability
- 22469VIC Course in Introduction to the National Disability Insurance Scheme
- CHCSS00130 Individual Support - Disability
- Undergraduate Certificate in Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
- Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
Peer Support Worker careers
If you're looking to embark on a rewarding career, exploring Peer Support Worker courses in Wollongong is an excellent choice. These courses provide the necessary skills and knowledge to support individuals in their journey towards mental health and wellbeing. With a variety of options available, including the Certificate IV in Mental Health offered by ACOS and the Diploma of Mental Health provided by the Australian College of the Professions, students can find the right fit to advance their career in community services.
In Wollongong, your training can lead to a multitude of career opportunities. Graduates of Peer Support Worker courses can branch into job roles such as Mental Health Worker, Psychotherapist, or Mental Health Nurse. The skills learnt throughout the training are essential for various jobs, including Mental Health Support Worker and Intake Worker, ensuring you can make a real difference in the lives of others.
Wollongong is home to a vibrant community that thrives on support and care, making it the perfect location to undertake your training in the field of peer support. In addition to gaining a qualification, students will have the chance to connect with community organisations that may offer work placements or volunteer opportunities. Courses in the Community Services sector provide a strong foundation, allowing newly qualified professionals to step confidently into their roles.
As a Peer Support Worker, your journey can open doors to various related career paths, such as becoming a Mental Health Advocate, Child Psychologist, or even a Behaviour Therapist. With the right training and passion for helping others, you will be well-prepared to take on impactful roles. Explore your options and enrol in one of the available Peer Support Worker courses in Wollongong today!