latest news

Northern Beaches schools in the Warringah Council area receive an opportunity to use funding

Please note our Adelaide Workshop on 15 March is filling fast

Burwood Implementation Workshop 29 November 2011

Mind & Its Potential Conference 7-8 November 2011 Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre

Broken Hill Implementation Workshop

We are pleased to announce a Special Offer to schools in the Broken Hill district and surrounding area – Due to demand for the Peer Support Program to be implemented in schools in the Broken Hill district, an Implementation Workshop has been scheduled for Wednesday 24 August 2011 with a special offer to our rural schools - 2 for 1 offer - 2 teaching staff attend the workshop for the price of 1. Register on-line and we will discount the cost of training to reflect 2nd person free. Limit one offer per school 3rd and subsequent attendees will pay the usual 50% off $210GST Hurry! It's on in just under 3 weeks Book now!

Article 'Parents urged to take bullying stand' Herald Sun dated 22 March 2011

Interview with Sam Chadwick Education Manager Peer Support Australia on 22 March 2011 published in Herald Sun on Parents urged to take bullying stand With a big rise in bullying on social media, parents need to be better informed about how their children are using technology. Parents were crucial to preventing all forms of bullying, especially cyber bullying. Click here to read the Herald Sun Article

Announcement - Vice-Regal Patron

We are pleased to announce that on 27th January 2011 Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia has accepted an invitation to represent Peer Support Australia as Vice-Regal Patron.

Life Matters audio

Interview with Sam Chadwick Education Manager Peer Support Australia and Richard Aedy on 24 November 2010 on Life Matters ABC Schools and bullying are two words that have traditionally gone together. Given what we now know about the often damaging impact of bullying, increasingly schools are expected to deal with and even prevent it. One organisation believes the answer lies not in training teachers or principals, but the students themselves. Click here to listen to audio

Tribute to James Dibble

Sadly Peer Support Australia advises the death of James Dibble MBE AM After 27 years with the ABC, as its popular Chief Television Newsreader James retired on 10 June 1983. The next day he commenced his work with the Peer Support Program. James served as Chairman of the Peer Support Foundation for 17 years, then continued to sit on the Board until October 2008 when sadly his deteriorating health made it difficult for him to attend Board meetings. Jim's contribution to Peer Support Australia continues to be valued by everyone of us who have known him. From Idea of a University The true gentleman in like manner carefully avoids whatever may cause a jar or a jolt in the minds of those with whom he is cast - all clashing of opinion, or collision of feeling, all restraint, or suspicion, or gloom, or resentment; his great concern being to make every one at ease and at home. He has his eyes on all his company; he is tender towards the bashful; gentle towards the distant, and merciful towards the absurd; he can recollect to whom he is speaking; he guards against unseasonable allusions, or topics which may irritate; he is seldom prominent in conversation, and never wearisome. He makes light of favours while he does them, and seems to be receiving when he is conferring. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends. Click here to read our Tribute to James Dibble

Tribute to our Founder

With great sadness Peer Support Australia advises the passing of our founder, Elizabeth Annita Campbell AM,BSc, TNDC In the early seventies when a student in a Sydney High School died as the result of a drug overdose, our founder Elizabeth Campbell, a health educator, was called upon to develop a program to help deal with the death and the drug related issues. The Peer Support Program was the result. The Peer Support Program is a hands on learning experience. It's basis is simple. People of any age are influenced by and learn from their peers. The Peer Support Program provides a safe comfortable structure where learning can occur. The program now operates in more than 1400 schools throughout NSW,ACT,QLD,TAS,WA & NT. Through Elizabeth's work her legacy will be the impact she has had on hundreds of thousands of young people throughout Australia. Peer Support Australia is committed to continuing her work. Our thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends.

Carolyn Jones A.O. Broadcaster and presenter of ABC - TV's 'Australian Story'

Happiness is... by Caroline Jones A.O. I am happy when I'm dancing. I am happy in the garden. I am happy when I remember to be grateful for the extraordinary gift of being alive. I am happy looking through a kaleidoscope, going for a walk, riding a bicycle and feeding the fish at Ned's Beach on Lord Howe Island. I find joy in the lorikeets playing on my veranda. Happiness comes from the rain and the sea, and from flowering gum trees and colours. I find deep happiness through friendship. I am happy when I meet a kindred spirit; and also when I find the courage to persevere with a relationship that is difficult. One of my happiest times was working as a trainer with Elizabeth Campbelll's Peer Support Foundation, a communication and leadership program to benefit students new to high school, and senior students taking responsibility for their wellbeing. There's nothing be beat working in a team for the common good. Published in Notebook Magazine Issue: October 2008

Carolyn Jones A.O. Broadcaster and presenter of ABC - TV's 'Australian Story'

Just as I remember Elizabeth... by Caroline Jones A.O. In a working life as a broadcaster, I have met hundreds of people. Elizabeth Campbell was outstanding amoung them, for her inspiration, leadership and dedication to the wellbeing of children. I was privileged to work with her, as a volunteer Peer Support trainer, for two years. We travelled Australia-wide and to New Zealand. Elizabeth like to rise early and walk. I have a vivid memory of keeping pace with her along Henley Beach in Adelaide as she focussed her passionate enthusiasm for another day's Peer Support workshops. And I remember with gratitude her kindness, her friendship and her delighted laughter. Caroline Jones A.O. October 2010

Implementation workshop at Rooty Hill

Peer Support Program Implementation training for teachers 23 February 2011 The workshop provides the knowledge and skills necessary to implement and coordinate an effective Peer Support Program in your school. Student leadership training notes are included and you will have the opportunity to view the various modules available for either Primary and Secondary students. To register for this workshop, click here.

Burwood SRC workshop places filling fast

Hurry! Places are limited at the Peer Support SRC workshop so book in now to secure your seat. The date to remember is Monday 15 November 2010 This workshop is in high demand so be quick to register your place. To register for this workshop, click here.

Peninsula Pals collaborating to support the community

Peninsula Pals comprises three charitable organisations - Peer Support Australia, Sunnyfield and Bear Cottage - that work together ro raise money for deserving groups in the local community In April 2010, Peninsula Pals co-ordinated and hosted a Garden Party on the lawns of Kirribilli House to raise money for their community projects. Congratulations Peninsula Pals and Peer Support Australia for a wonderful event and memorable occasion! To read Senator the Hon Ursula Stephens Media release acknowledging the event click here

Organisation of the Year

Peer Support Australia wins the NFPN Awards for Excellence Peer Support Australia was nominated and won the NFPN Awards for Excellence 2009 in the category of Organisation of the Year. The Not-For-Profit Network based in Queensland received many worthy nominations however the outstanding work of the Foundation put them in first place. Peer Support Australia has gained recognition for continuing dedication to industry best practice and innovation. Congratulations Peer Support Australia Well done!

Implementation workshop for Hobart schools

Peer Support Program Implementation training for teachers 13 October 2010 The workshop provides the knowledge and skills necessary to implement and coordinate an effective Peer Support Program in your school. Student leadership training notes are included and you will have the opportunity to view the various modules available for either Primary and Secondary students. To register for this workshop, click here.

Facilitating Teachers' Workshop for Secondary schools

Why should I attend a Facilitating Teachers' Workshop on 14 Sept rather than an Implementation Workshop? As a Facilitating Teacher you will be supporting the Peer Support Program Coordinating teacher during the student leadership training. You will be responsible for conducting the entire 2 day leadership training program with the same group of 14 -16 students. This allows you to: develop a rapport with the group observe the development of individual skills over the 2 days assess the leadership competencies of the students. To register for this workshop, click here. Note: The school's Peer Support Program Co-ordinator should attend the Implementation workshop.

Sans Souci workshop full

We have filled the Sans Souci Workshop scheduled for Tues 18 May 2010 Due to overwhelming demand, we have filled the May 2010 workshop to be held at Sans Souci. Still interested in attending... contact our office to be waitlisted and/or register on the next available workshop.

wa curriculum council endorses the Peer Support Program

The Government of WA Curriculum Council has advised Peer Support Australia of its decision to endorse the Peer Support Program from 2010. From 2010, students completing the Peer Support Program in the role of Peer Leaders can count this experience towards their senior secondary graduation certificate (WACE). Further information will soon be available on the Curriculum Council website or you can contact Sam Chadwick at Peer Support Australia on 02 9905 3499 or

new primary module focusing on optimism

Living Positively - a module which focuses on optimism Peer Support Australia has developed an 8 session module which focuses on providing a framework for students to learn about optimism with an emphasis on skills including positive self talk and resilience. Students learn to approach life with a positive attitude, use their strengths, engage in enjoyable activities and show gratitude to others. Living Positively seeks to provide opportunities for students to identify which areas of life represent personal strengths and how they can feel happier and more fulfilled by taking advantage of these strengths. Three important strengths focused on throughout the module are curiosity, kindness and teamwork. Students will work with a model to assist them in developing the skills of optimism. I laugh - activities I enjoy I live - using my strengths I love - showing appreciation to others Key skills developed in this module include resilience, coping, critical thinking and planning. Until 30 September 2009, this module is available to member schools at the special introductory price of $60 + GST + postage. Click here to see the flyer for Living Positively.

NSWIT Endorsed provider

Peer Support Australia has been endorsed as a provider of continuing professional development by the NSW Institute of Teachers. Following the successful completion of the accreditation process the NSWIT has endorsed Peer Support Australia as a provider of the following professional development training: Implementation workshop – a workshop for teachers wanting to coordinate and implement an effective Peer Support Program in their school. Positive Direction in Anti-Bullying workshop – a workshop for teachers wishing to examine a whole school approach to the issue of bullying behaviours in schools. SRC Leadership Teacher Training workshop – a workshop for teachers coordinating or mentoring the Student Representative Council in their school. Attendance at one of our workshops will contribute towards the mandatory professional development hours required for teachers. For more information contact a Training and Development Consultant or the NSW IT directly. Teachers attending future workshops will be requested for their NSWIT accreditation number to assist with this process.

new promotional DVD

Peer Support Australia, with the financial support of the Australian Department of Health and Ageing and under the expert guidance of the coup production team, has produced a series of videos about the Peer Support Program for training and awareness raising purposes. Teachers, students, philanthropists and community members from three states came together to provide reflections and testimonials about their experience with the Peer Support Program. 6 videos were produced, focusing on either: Primary students and the Peer Support Program Primary teachers and the implementation of the Peer Support Program Secondary students and the Peer Support Program Secondary teachers and the implementation of the Peer Support Program Information for Sponsors of the Peer Support Program Mitchell McBurnie – A Peer leader testimonial The 6 videos are available on a single DVD or via YouTube.com and will soon be accessible from this website. For complimentary copy of the DVD, please contact your Training and Development Consultant.

extra workshop for Perth schools

Peer Support Program implementation training for teachers May 21 2009 Peer Support Australia are offering an additional workshop for schools which missed out on the ones held in February. The workshop provides the knowledge and skills necessary to implement and coordinate an effective Peer Support Program in your school. Student leadership training notes are included and you will have the opportunity to view the various modules available for either Primary and Secondary students. For more information click here. To register for this workshop, click here.

new policy benefits members of peer support australia

Members only for training and resources At a recent meeting of the Board of Peer Support Australia a resolution was passed to limit the purchasing of training and resources to schools which are affiliate members of our organisation. Peer Support Australia is currently undergoing administrative changes which will affect our back office procedures and streamline many of our processes. To enable a smoother transition to the new system, schools will now be required to become members of Peer Support Australia in order to book training and purchase resources, including modules, certificates, badges and rulers. Schools will also need to become members if you wish to book a Training and Development Consultant for an awareness raising sessions for your staff, students or parents. Additional member benefits will become available during the course of the year to ensure schools make the most of their membership. This change will be effective immediately. Annual Membership is $100 + GST. There is a $20 + GST joining fee.

a coup for peer support australia

Thanks to all schools and individuals who helped us with our DVD, made possible by funding received from the Australian Department of Health and Ageing. Peer Support Australia is in the process of updating our promotional video material under the capable direction of David McCubbin and the team from coup. During the past few days, coup have interviewed primary and secondary students, teachers, philanthropists, interstate ambassadors and government officials as well as recording hours of footage from our implementation workshop and the student leadership training. The schedule has been both exciting and exhausting and Peer Support Australia wanted to publicly record our thanks to all who have assisted us so far. Ms Toula Magoutas and the students from Bonnyrigg High School Ms Judy Evans, Ms Michelle Demirel and the students from Strathfield North Public School Participants at the Penrith Implementation workshop Ms Margaret Amore, Thomas Hassall Anglican College Mr Paul Bullen, Researcher, Management Alternatives Mr Brett Halter, Rockhampton CEC Mr Tim May, Kinross Wolaroi School Mr Anthony McAteer, Clancy Catholic College Mr Chris Moreland, past Peer Support leader Mr Mick Regan, Mayor, Warringah Council Mr Tony Rose, St John Vianney PS, Doonside Mr Anthony Ryan, Principal, Townsville Central State School Mr Greg Sawyer, Assistant Principal, Rose Bay HS, Lindisfarne Mr Wal Simpson, Purves Foundation Ms Sally Till, Berowra Public School Mrs Lorraine Walker, NSW CEC Mr Brian Wilson, Teen Spirit

WA implementation workshops a great success

26 Schools, 55 staff trained in 4 workshops across WA Peer Support Australia received funding from the Department of Health and Ageing to conduct Peer Support workshops in the Kimberley in 2009. After gaining expressions of interest from schools across Western Australia, 4 workshops were scheduled for February, 2009. 9 staff from 5 schools attended the workshop in Bunbury on 12 Feb. 19 staff from 11 schools attended the workshop in Perth on 13 Feb. 11 staff from 5 schools attended the workshop in Kununurra on 16 Feb. 16 staff from 5 schools attended the workshop in Broome on 19 Feb. The feedback from these workshops was very positive and Peer Support Australia is looking forward to building on these relationships to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the youth of WA. Many of the schools trained are looking to move into the implementation phase within the next 12 months. We will also establish research links with schools and intend to report further on the outcomes of this research in the coming months. We would like to thank Susan Edgar and Patton Jones who welcomed us to Broome and Kununurra on behalf of the traditional owners of the land, the Yawru people and the Miriuwung Gajerrong people. We would also like to thank Lesley Hearn at Bunbury CEO, Wilson McNeill at Perth CEO, Megan Bauld at the Kununurra Country Club and Carol Geurts at Broome CEO for organising the venues and catering for us. Your assistance helped our days to run very smoothly. Thank you.

overwhelming response from WA and NT schools to pilot offer

What a fantastic response! Peer Support Australia received funding from the Department of Health and Ageing to conduct Peer Support workshops in the Northern Territory, and Western Australia. As a result we wrote to all schools offering them the chance to take part in a free pilot of the Peer Support Program. The response has been overwhelming. 90 WA schools from around the state as well as 21 NT schools have registered to take part in the pilot. As this number greatly exceeds the number of schools we can train, some schools have had to be placed on a waiting list. Workshops have been planned for Bunbury (12 Feb), Perth (13 Feb), Kununurra (16 Feb) and Broome (19 Feb) and in Alice Springs (24 Mar) and Darwin (26 Mar and 27 Mar) in 2009. We are encouraging all schools who have missed out on the first round to send a letter to Peer Support Australia outlining the reasons why you believe the Peer Support Program will benefit your students and school community. We will collate the letters to help us build a case for additional funding in order to meet the demand. Peer Support Australia has sent letters to all schools which applied to be part of the pilot program.

congratulations to the successful schools

THANK YOU to all schools who have assisted us with our survey! Peer Support Australia, under the guidance of our researcher, has been conducting an audit of the Peer Support Program throughout NSW, ACT, Queensland and Tasmania. Surveys were sent to all school Principals or Peer Support Coordinators. As a thank you to the staff who responded, 6 schools were selected at random to receive a complimentary module. The successful schools were St Therese's Primary School, Padstow, (Keeping Friends), Goulburn High School,(Behaving with Integrity), James Erskine Public School,(Keeping Friends), St Patrick's College, Gympie,(Behaving with Integrity), St Michael's Primary School, Meadowbank (Keeping Friends)and St Bernard's Primary School Batehaven (Being Positive). Findings from this research are still in the preliminary stages and will be reported on this website SOON. The responses have contributed to the ongoing development of an evaluation tool for schools to use as a measure of the efficacy of the Peer Support Program for their students. The tools should be available to schools early in 2009.

new website

Welcome to our new website! Our website is still developing and we will be adding additional functionality over the next 6 months, including access to a member’s section. Other new or improved features include: A simpler registration process for upcoming workshops Ability to order Peer Support Program modules and other resources directly online Easier downloading of information about the Peer Support Program, various workshops and individual modules Membership and sponsorship links Opportunities to register your interest in trialling or reviewing new modules We trust our new website will better meet the needs of staff in our schools. Once you have explored the new website, you might like to provide some feedback. Click here to leave feedback

free information session

WHAT’S NEW ABOUT THE PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM? COME TO A FREE 2 HOUR INFORMATION SESSION IN HOBART AND FIND OUT Peer Support Australia invites you and/or a member of staff to a FREE information session on 2 July in Hobart. This 2 hour session will provide information for schools considering introducing, or updating, their Peer Support Program and provide the opportunity to ask questions and hear from schools currently implementing the Program. The Peer Support Program now operates in both primary and secondary schools and since 2007 over 40 Tasmanian schools have trained in this exciting new initiative. Peer Support Australia has secured funding to support schools in Tasmania to implement the Peer Support Program. Many schools are currently running a version of Peer Support however no training has been available for many years and as a result schools may be using outdated materials. Current modules are 8 sessions in length and focus on one of the following areas: relationships, optimism, resilience, values or anti-bullying. Click here to make a booking

new module

Keeping Friends is an 8 session module focusing on relationships. The module supports young people to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to maintain friendships and interact with one another in a friendly and positive way. Students learn how to play fairly, accept that friendships change, support each other and acknowledge they may have a variety of friends. The cost of our Keeping Friends module is $70 + GST + postage for member schools. Keeping Friends supersedes the previous relationship module, Building Connections. Click here for more information, including how to order this module