Recommended Actions

Key Actions for Building Sustainable and Inclusive Lived Experience Workforces

Throughout the development of the Framework, several key actions were identified as essential for ensuring the Western Australian Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces remain diverse and sustainable into the future. These actions are recommended for system leaders, local organisations, and service providers to consider implementing where feasible.

The Framework’s recommendations focus on creating an inclusive and supportive environment for Lived Experience (Peer) workers to thrive. By addressing systemic barriers, promoting equity, and building strong organisational structures, we can establish and sustain these workforces over time.

Achieving this vision requires collaboration across all organisational levels—from leadership to frontline staff. This involves committing to cultural change, enhancing professional development opportunities, and fostering trauma-informed, person-centred environments. Organisations must be open to learning, adapting, and aligning their practices with the principles and values of Lived Experience (Peer) work.

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Mental Health Commission

1. Commission rigorous lived experience co-led research to accurately map the current status of the Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces across the state-wide mental health, alcohol and other drug, and suicide prevention sectors.

2. Commission the establishment of a Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces association to support and represent the growing Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces.

3. Invest in and develop a state-wide Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces infrastructure across the mental health, alcohol and other drug, and suicide prevention sectors, assisting organisations to develop Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces.

For more detailed information, please refer to the “Mental Health Commission Actions” section on page 40 of the Framework via the link below.

Western Australian Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces Framework - Page 40

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Organisations and Service Providers

Recommended Actions

1. Invest in and develop an organisation wide Lived Experience Workforces Strategy.

2. A Lived Experience Governance System will ensure that Lived Experience (Peer) values are at the heart of the work and will ensure fidelity to the Lived Experience body of knowledge (human rights and social justice mission) is front and centre in its development.

For more detailed information, please refer the “Organisations and Service Providers Actions” section on page 41 of the Framework via the link below.

Western Australian Lived Experience (Peer) Workforces Framework - Page 41

References