Bringing Peer Workers Together - Australian Association of Peer Workers

Season 3 Episode 1: Bringing Peer Workers Together- Australian Association of Peer Workers  On this episode of On the ARC, host Cat and guest Danni, talk about the newly formed Australian Association of Peer Workers, why it’s been created and what it hopes to achieve for peer workers and organisations in the mental health sector.  About the Australian Association of Peer Workers: The Australian Association of Peer Workers (AAPW) is the national representative and membership body for mental health and suicide prevention peer workers, supporting peer work as a distinct professional practice grounded in lived experience. Established in May 2026, the AAPW brings together the diverse experiences and collective power of the peer workforce to ensure peer work is embedded, valued and invested in across Australia’s mental health system. The AAPW is built by peer workers, for peer workers, to strengthen our voice, advocate for our interests, and provide the resources and connections needed to navigate the sector and thrive in our roles. Through this work, the Association aims to advance recognition, respect and better outcomes for mental health and suicide prevention peer workers and their work across Australia. Find out more: https://www.aapw.org.au/ Also mentioned in this episode: Peer run service “The Healing Space” in Geelong, Victoria run by Mind https://www.mindaustralia.org.au/services/peer-healing-space-geelong On the ARC is a podcast about coming together to share collective wisdom from the lived experience community. We will share stories of lived experience, recovery and explore alternatives to the medical model, talking to people who've been there and people who are creating change. The podcast is proudly supported by ARC (Aspire Recovery Connection) ARC is a lived experience organsation, centred on human rights and social justice. They provide a range of NDIS supports, including Recovery Coaching and Peer Support. ARC offers human connection and understanding to support healing from mental and emotional distress. https://aspirerecovery.com.au/