MATES Mentoring

About the program

The MATES youth mentoring program is a model that was originally developed by Wimmera Southern Mallee LLEN. Since 2010, it has been implemented in more than 18 schools across the Wimmera Southern Mallee region, matching over 600 mentors with young people.

Central Grampians LLEN introduced MATES as a pilot program in 2021 thanks to a community grant from Northern Grampians Shire Council. The initial pilot involved three schools, however the program has since expanded to include nine schools throughout the Northern Grampians Shire and Ararat Rural City local government areas.

MATES matches nominated students from each school with volunteer mentors from the community. They meet for one hour each fortnight, within school hours, for the duration of the school year.

Becoming a mentor

MATES draws on the strong support of the local community to be positive role models for young people and take a personal interest in their growth and development. Mentor training and involvement is also a great opportunity for professional development.

To be eligible to become a mentor, you must:

• Be over 18 years of age
• Pass a screening process (Working with Children Check and Police Check)
• Sign and adhere to the CGLLEN Mentors Code of Conduct & Confidentiality Agreement
• Adhere to any vaccination requirements listed in the current Schools Operations Guide 

Student eligibility

Students are referred to the program by their schools. Please contact your child’s school for further information.

Find out more

For further details, or to express your interest in becoming a mentor, please click the button below to fill out The Volunteer Mentor form or contact our MATES Coordinator. Alternatively you can download the pdf version of the form here and print off, fill out, scan and email back to us to below email address.

Phone: 03 5352 3266

Mobile: 0418 535 478

Email: mates@cgllen.org.au