Peer workers have their say
Media event date: 19 March 2026 Date published: 19 March 2026 Media type: Media release General public Peer workers in mental health and suicide prevention are invited to be part of a landmark initiative and share their view in the first national peer workforce census. Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride MP, launched the survey at the Coffs Harbour Medicare Mental Health Centre.
The census is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to develop a mental health and suicide prevention peer workforce which is integral to the delivery of care for Australians. Peer workers are employed in services right across the county and use their lived experience of mental health challenges and suicide to support individuals, families and carers.
They may also work in other lived experience roles like education and training, policy development and leadership. The first National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Lived Experience (Peer) Workforce Census opens on 18 March 2026. Run by the Social Research Centre and The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, the census will help provide insights and perspectives to inform the future development of the peer workforce.
Peer workers are encouraged to complete the census online before 18 April 2026: https://srcentre.com.au/project-lived-experience-peer-workforce-census/ Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride: “The Albanese Labor Government wants all Australians to access high quality mental health services when and where they need them, and peer workers play a vital part in meeting this growing need.
“I encourage all peer workers to share their experiences and insights in the first ever national peer worker census. “The outcomes from this census will support the government in developing the peer workforce as a valued part of the mental health system – and help them use their lived experience and skills to support others.” The Hon Emma McBride MP Mental health and suicide prevention Accessibility We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community.
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