Mentoring Program

Mentoring Program

Welcome to the AASW Mentoring Program

Run annually from May to November, the award-winning AASW Mentoring Program connects social workers at all career stages to form ongoing mentor-mentee relationships.

Through regular meetings and a supportive framework, participants navigate personal and professional challenges, share insights, learn from and inspire one another.

Applications for the 2026 program are open until 7 April.

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AASW Mentoring Program
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Hear from past participants in the mentoring program

The mentoring relationship is really valuable. In social work, we talk so much about systems and relationships, and we built one. I grew from the experience, and my mentee grew from the experience

– Erin Immel

I could bring more of my story and my career experience into the mentoring relationship and guide mentees along their career path.

– Carol Karas

It was nice for me to be able to give something back, to step in, have that journey with them, and play that support and counselling role.

– Patricia McMinn

FAQ

Mentoring is a relationship in which an experienced individual (mentor) provides guidance, advice, and support to a less experienced individual (mentee). This guidance can encompass various aspects of personal and professional development. Mentoring is a dynamic relationship in which the mentor shares their expertise, insights, and life experiences to help the mentee develop professionally, personally, or academically.

The program’s purpose is not to assist participants in finding work. The mentor-mentee partnership is an opportunity to foster knowledge sharing, insights and learnings which can co-facilitate each other’s objectives for joining the program.

The mentoring program is ideal for:

  • final-year social work students completing their final field placement
  • graduates starting their first social work position
  • early-career social workers seeking guidance and support
  • mid-career social workers exploring a shift in their practice focus
  • experienced social workers looking for a stepping-stone into leadership or supervision. 

Mentoring is not limited to just the early stages of one’s career. It can be valuable at all levels of professional development, including senior positions. It’s not just about getting started; it’s about continuous improvement and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of social work. Whether you’re just starting out or in a senior leadership role, there’s always something to learn and gain from a mentor.

To become a mentor, you need to:

  • be a financial member of the AASW and maintain your membership throughout the program
  • have been practicing social work for a minimum of five years
  • have excellent communication skills
  • have a desire to contribute to the future of the social work profession and be willing to share your knowledge and expertise with your mentee
  • love what you do, be enthusiastic about sharing your passion, and regularly set and meet professional and personal goals.

To become a mentee, you need to:

  • be a financial member of the AASW and maintain your membership throughout the program
  • be organised and proactive, as the program is mentee led
  • be willing to learn, grow, and share your knowledge with mentors in return
  • have an open mind and behave respectfully towards your mentor
  • commit to completing the program and respect the time of your mentor

Before applying, please take note of the following program requirements:

Time commitment: Participation in the mentoring program requires a minimum commitment of six 1-hour meetings over the course of six months, plus additional preparation time before each meeting. You are expected to meet with your mentor/mentee at least monthly.

Limited mentee availability: Spaces in the program are limited for mentees. If you are unable to meet the minimum time requirement or commit to the full six-month program, we kindly ask that you apply at a future time when you can participate fully.

AASW membership: Participation in the AASW Mentoring Program requires active membership with the AASW. As the program runs over the membership renewal period, please ensure your membership is renewed for the 2025/2026 period to remain eligible.

Program participation: You may apply as a mentor or a mentee, but not both.