Peer workers, like professionals in any specialised field, require comprehensive, high-quality training and ongoing professional development. This ensures they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence necessary to provide effective support to individuals facing addiction challenges. Continuous education and training are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the peer workforce, adapting to emerging issues in the field, and fostering best practices.
Peer Worker Training
SHARC’s Peer Worker Training program supports people with lived and living experience to work effectively in peer roles within the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector. Developed through research and co-design, the training builds the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for peer practice. Participants explore the values and principles of peer support, ethical practice, boundaries and self-care, while learning how to use their lived experience safely and meaningfully to support others. The program aims to strengthen the peer workforce and support the growth of lived experience leadership.
To find out more about what training programs we have on offer or how we can tailor a training program for your needs, contact
Peer Worker Training program which works to:
Educate peer workers on concepts and core competencies of peer work
Assist peer workers to apply best practice peer work in formalised settings
Offer an Intentional Peer Support (IPS) lens to the peer work discipline
Increase confidence and develop skills in communication and navigating relational parameters
Develop understanding of ethical practice and workplace legislative requirements
Empower peer workers to advocate for the discipline and manage their own wellbeing and development needs
Prepare peer workers to work across a number of domains, remaining ‘peer’ within clinical governance frameworks
The training covers:
Peer support and being a peer facilitator
Information to help you in leading the group
Responsibilities and administrative tasks
Managing common issues
Communication and boundaries
Peer Facilitator Training
This 1-day program is specifically designed for individuals and agencies that work in support groups. Whilst the scope and focus of your peer support group will be dictated by the needs of your agency and your group participants, this training will support you in the development and support of your group.
To find out more about what training programs we have on offer or how we can tailor a training program for your needs, contact
Upcoming Peer Facilitator Training Dates 2026
- Tuesday 31 March 2026 – Register here
- Friday April 17th 2026 – registrations open March 20th
- Friday May 8th 2026 – registrations open April 10th
Organisational Readiness Training
SHARC also delivers training to help organisations to introduce or expand a peer workforce and to provide a framework of support to sustain it. This training is focused entirely on meeting the needs of executives, managers and other staff.
To find out more about what training programs we have on offer or how we can tailor a training program for your needs, contact
Participants will:
Develop an understanding of the peer work discipline through its history, contemporary practice and evidence base
Understand the key domains to successful implementation and use this opportunity to get it right from the start
Understand workforce support requirements, sustainability frameworks and workshop localised challenges and opportunities