Mentoring and peer support
Peer and lived-experience mentoring in the NDIS — how learning from others who get it builds capacity, confidence and connection.
Some of the most valuable support comes from people who have been where you are. Peer support and mentoring connect you with others who understand disability from the inside — and that shared understanding can build confidence, skills and connection in a way that nothing else quite matches. This guide explains what peer support and mentoring are, how they help, and how they fit alongside your…
What peer support and mentoring are
Why lived experience helps
How it builds capacity and confidence
Where to find peer support and mentoring
Making the most of it
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between peer support and mentoring?
Peer support usually means connecting with others who have similar experiences, often in a group, to support one another as equals. Mentoring is usually a one-to-one relationship where someone with more experience guides you, often around specific goals.
Why is lived experience so valuable?
Someone who has faced the same barriers can offer understanding without judgement, practical real-world tips, and hope from someone living it. It also counters isolation — a peer quietly shows you that you are not alone.
Can peer support and mentoring be funded by the NDIS?
Some peer and mentoring support can connect to your Capacity Building budget where it builds skills and confidence and relates to your goals. How it is funded depends on the specific support and your plan, so check with your planner or LAC.
Does peer support replace my therapy or support coordinator?
No. It sits alongside your professional supports as a different kind of help, not a replacement. Peer support is about shared experience, not clinical or plan advice, so pair it with your other supports.
Where can I find peer support or a mentor?
Look to disability organisations and disability-led groups, mentoring programs, online communities, and the groups and clubs in this collection. If big groups feel like a lot, an online community or a one-to-one mentor can be an easier start.
How do I get the most out of peer support?
Be clear about what you want, give it a few goes before deciding, and be open and honest. Remember it goes both ways — offering support to others is part of the benefit — and pair it with your other supports.