Lived Experience Peer Cadet Program

• 3 x Part-time (0.6 FTE) opportunities: 2 placement days per week + 1 paid study day
• 10-Month Contract | Commencing August 2026
• Location: Must be able to work from one of the following Each offices, depending on program placement: Boronia, Box Hill, Dandenong, Ferntree Gully, Healesville, Lilydale, Narre Warren, Pakenham, Epping, Knox or Ringwood.
• $35.83p/h + Super + Generous Salary Packaging benefits of up to $18,550

The Peer Cadet Program is an entry-level employment opportunity for people with personal lived and/or living experience (LLE) of mental health and/or addiction challenges or personal LLE of supporting a loved one through their journey of mental health or addiction challenges. It is designed for those currently undertaking (or intending to undertake) the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work, and offers a paid cadetship across one of nine (Each included) participating Victorian non-government community mental health services. 

At Each, we offer placements in adult mental health, psychosocial support, alcohol and other drugs (AOD), youth mental health and family violence recovery. Cadets are expected to be well-progressed in their own recovery journeys, to ensure they can safely and effectively participate in team placements and contribute to the peer workforce. Please note this is not a counselling position. 

Each Peer Cadet will:

• Participate in a comprehensive orientation program.
• Be placed within different Each teams and supported by an experienced peer mentor.
• Meet with individual team members to learn about their roles and areas of work.
• Attend team meetings where appropriate.
• Gain an understanding of administrative processes, including referrals, medical records, and recording contacts.
• Develop documentation skills, such as writing case notes, completing consent forms, and contributing to recovery plans.
• Learn about key areas such as duty of care and risk management.
• Receive mentoring in delivering 1:1 peer support and facilitating peer support groups.
• Engage in professional supervision and peer reflective practice sessions to support their ongoing professional development.
• Attend state wide events with cadets from other organisations to support growth, networking and development.

Who we are looking for
If you’re able to work collaboratively, bring an inclusive, non-judgemental approach, form healthy relationships, manage your own wellbeing and seek support where necessary, then this could be the role for you!
You will also:

• Be undertaking or enrolled to undertake the Certificate IV - Mental Health Peer Work.  
• Have a current Australian state-based drivers licence – probationary or higher.  
• Have a lived experience of mental illness, substance dependence, family violence or trauma.
• Be well progressed upon their recovery journey.

• Must be currently undertaking (or enrolled to undertake) the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work.

At Each we are committed to developing our people and ensuring you're supported to be your best. 
We provide:

• Diversity & belonging – We value all backgrounds, abilities, and identities and are committed to cultural safety.
• Supportive & inclusive culture – Work with like-minded colleagues and leaders who genuinely care.
• Free, confidential support – Our Employee Assistance Program is available for you and your family. 
• Endless career opportunities – With over 200 programs across QLD, NSW, ACT, and VIC, there are plenty of pathways to progress. 
• Boost your take-home pay – Not-for-Profit Salary Packaging (up to $15,900 tax-free per year) plus an extra $2,650 tax-free for meals and entertainment. 

Please find the full position description here.

For more information regarding the Peer Cadet Program, please visit:
🔗https://www.mindaustralia.org.au/peer-cadet-program-lived-experience-career-compass

Frequently asked questions can be found here.

NEXT STEPS
To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter addressing the selection criteria.

Applications close: Friday 8th May 2026
Please note: Applications will be reviewed as they are received

Definitions

• What is Lived Experience? 
  Lived experience refers to the personal life experiences that people have had of mental illness/distress, substance dependence or trauma, either as a consumer/client or as a family member/ carer/ support person.
• What is Living Experience?
  Some people with lived experience prefer to use the phrase ‘living experience’ to describe their ongoing, often lifelong, journeys of recovery, discovery and healing.
• What is Recovery?
  Recovery is an individual and personal journey of self-discovery and healing. People who are on their recovery journeys empower themselves to live a life of their choosing, prioritise their wellbeing, undergo growth and strive to reach their goals whatever they choose them to be. People who are on their Recovery journey may still experience symptoms of mental distress or illness and may still use substances at times. People may not ‘recovered’ but on a journey of discovery and recovery. They may be living with life challenges most days. They may still be living with ups and downs in the road. Because some people may still be living with ongoing challenges, it is a good idea to take a moment to consider whether you are in the right place to take on a Peer Cadetship and whether you have the personal skills and interest in becoming a peer worker.

Next Steps in the Hiring Process 
Learn more about next steps, check out our Hiring Process Guide.

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