First Nations Peer Mentoring Program

Starting university can feel like a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. The First Nations Peer Mentoring Program connects commencing First Nations students with trained student mentors, free of charge, across all AU metropolitan, regional and online locations.

The First Nations Peer Mentoring Program provides culturally safe, strengths-based peer support in navigating university life and building community connections. Peer Mentors are continuing students who having navigated university and would like to walk beside others starting their journey.  Sessions are student-led and may involve:

• Social events
• One-on-one catchups with a Peer Mentor
• Assistance accessing services
• Group activities to connect with other students
• Regular check-ins throughout the year for ongoing support
• Casual yarns and conversations in a relaxed, culturally safe space
• A chance to ask questions, share experiences and learn about university services and opportunities

First Nations Peer Mentoring Program request

Who can access the program?

The First Nations Peer Mentoring Program focuses on commencing students (enabling and undergraduate), and students transitioning from enabling programs into their commencing year of undergraduate study.

To be eligible to access the Peer Mentoring Program, you must:

• Identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student; and
• Be enrolled in a pathway, undergraduate or postgraduate program at AU. If you identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and are enrolled in a pathway, undergraduate or postgraduate program at Adelaide University. This includes students studying 100% online degrees and via Open Universities Australia (OUA).

Registering your interest for being mentored

Some students will be automatically linked with the program upon enrolment, such as commencing students. Please look out for communication from your local First Nations Student Support Officer (FNSSO) regarding this.

Other ways to apply to receive support under the First Nations Peer Mentoring Program include:

• Contacting your local First Nations Tutorial Program Officer.
• Filling in the online application form.
• Or emailing us at First Nations Student Support.

After registering your interest to join the program, a First Nations Tutorial Program Officer (FNTPO) will contact you directly to ask some questions to match you with the most appropriate Mentor. Then you will be introduced to your Mentor to arrange a time to meet.

Become a Peer Mentor

Peer mentors walk alongside other mob through university. Help create a welcoming community and strengthen mob connection and belonging across the university: a place where students feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. 

As a Peer Mentor, you:  

• Meet & build friendships with other First Nations students
• Share knowledge, encouragement, and practical tips
• grow your own supportive networks with other mentors
• develop valuable leadership skills with mentoring workshops.

All with help and guidance, backed by First Nations Student Support Team.