Wellbeing & Support Resources

It’s not always easy navigating life’s challenges, but you’re not alone. Whether you're looking for mental health support, information about local programs, or just want to understand your options, the resources below can help guide you.

Where to start

General Wellbeing & Referral Services

These organisations offer support for young people around mental health, emotional wellbeing, personal development, and navigating life’s ups and downs.

Help is here

Emergency & Crisis Support

If you or someone you know needs help right now, these services are available 24/7.

  • Lifeline – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14.

  • Kids Helpline – Free, confidential support for young people aged 5 to 25. Call 1800 55 1800.

Disability Support & Inclusion Resources

Everyone deserves to feel supported, empowered, and included in their community. This page brings together key resources for young people with disability, their families, and carers - including education options, services, and advocacy networks.

Where to start

Disability Rights, Advocacy & Information

These resources provide general information about disability rights, inclusion, and support services in Victoria and Australia-wide.

  • Launchpad – DARU
    A gateway for young people with disability, covering rights, education, employment and more.

  • Australian Human Rights Commission – Disability Rights
    Understand your rights and protections under Australian law.

  • Scope Australia
    Supporting people with disability to live the life they choose through services and advocacy.

  • Carers Australia
    National services and support for unpaid carers.

  • Young Carers Network
    A platform for young people who care for a family member with a disability or chronic illness.

  • Amaze
    Information and support for autistic people and their families in Victoria.

  • I CAN - School mentoring directly empowers autistic students with optimism, belonging, self-acceptance, pride and confidence.

Council is here to help

Local Council Disability Access & Inclusion

Find local programs, accessible events, and support services in your area:

Here to Learn

Specialist Schools (SDS) in the Region

Specialist Developmental Schools offer personalised education for students with additional learning needs.

Career Pathways & Youth Advocacy

Explore employment options and learn how to advocate for yourself in the workplace and community.

First Nations Youth Support & Services

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands and pay respect to Elders past and present. This page brings together culturally safe support services, education pathways, and wellbeing resources tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

Where to start

Koorie Education Support & Pathways

Koorie Education Support Officers (KESOs) from the Department of Education and Training are here to help if you're thinking about leaving school or returning to education.
Call 9788 2683 and ask for a KESO
Email: Clarke.eric.f@Edumail.vic.gov.au

Other key education contacts:

  • Aboriginal Early Years Unit – 03 9651 3353

  • Koorie Unit – 03 9651 3793
    wannik@edumail.vic.gov.au

  • Koorie Strategy Unit – 03 9637 2000
    garrin.garrin@edumail.vic.gov.au

  • Chisholm Institute – Koorie Services – 03 9238 8435
    corey.Harrison@chisholm.edu.au

Help is here

Koorie Health & Support Services

Access health support and referrals through dedicated Aboriginal programs in the region.

Peninsula Health Aboriginal Programs:

  • Aboriginal Health Program Manager – 0487 004 200

  • Care Coordinator – 0487 013 277

  • Aboriginal Outreach Worker – 0487 005 977

  • Project Officer – 03 5973 5655

  • ACCESS (General support and referrals) – 1300 665 781

Bunjilwarra – Koorie Youth Alcohol and Drug Healing Service
03 5979 2011
garrin.garrin@edumail.vic.gov.au

Where to start

Community & Justice Support

Aboriginal Cooperative – Peninsula Health
manager@ddacl.org.au

Koorie Kids Homework Club (Jaffa)
9701 4200 or 0488 030 594

Koorie Justice Unit
8684 1766
koorie.justice@justice.vic.gov.au