Who Can Join VMHPAA?
Empowering Practitioners, Transforming Lives
Your Pathway to Professional Recognition Starts Here
At the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA), we proudly welcome a diverse range of mental health professionals holding qualifications at Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Levels 4 to 6 - including Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Associate Degree qualifications.
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Whether you're a frontline support worker, a peer practitioner, or a counsellor working in community care — VMHPAA is here to support, uplift, and recognise your vital contribution to Australia’s mental health landscape.
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This List is Not Exhaustive
The following is a sample of the types of professions and qualifications commonly eligible for VMHPAA membership. If your role or qualification isn’t listed here, we still encourage you to reach out. We’re happy to offer a free assessment to determine your eligibility.
Professions Commonly Eligible for Membership
Mental Health Support Worker
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Certificate IV in Mental Health (AQF Level 4)
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Providing direct support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
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Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Worker
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Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (AQF Level 4)
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Specialising in supporting clients with substance use concerns.​
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Mental Health Peer Worker
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Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (AQF Level 4)
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Using lived experience to guide and support others on their recovery journey.
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Community Rehabilitation and Support Worker
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Diploma of Mental Health (AQF Level 5)
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Focused on rehabilitation and community-based mental health support.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Worker
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Diploma of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (Practice) (AQF Level 5)
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Culturally responsive support for Indigenous communities.
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Counsellor
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Diploma of Counselling (AQF Level 5)
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Qualified to provide general counselling services.
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Family Support Worker
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Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (AQF Level 4)
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Supporting families and young people through challenging circumstances.
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Youth Worker
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Diploma of Youth Work (AQF Level 5)
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Working with young people, including those with emerging mental health needs.
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Disability Support Worker
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Certificate IV in Disability (AQF Level 4)
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Supporting people with disabilities, including those with psychosocial concerns.
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Enrolled Nurse (Specialising in Mental Health)
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Diploma of Nursing (AQF Level 5)
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Qualified enrolled nurses working within mental health settings.
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NDIS Support Coordinator / Psychosocial Recovery Coach
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Certificate IV in Mental Health or Disability (AQF Level 4)
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Helping individuals access and navigate mental health supports through the NDIS.
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NDIS Allied Health Assistant (Mental Health Focus)
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Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (AQF Level 4)
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Supporting allied health professionals in delivering mental health care.
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Indigenous Mental Health Worker
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Associate Degree in Indigenous Professional Practices – Mental Health Major (Curtin University)
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Blending traditional and clinical mental health practices to support First Nations communities.​
Not Sure If You Qualify? Let’s Chat.
We understand the diversity of pathways into vocational mental health practice - and we’re here to recognise and support that. If you think your training or experience aligns with our mission, but you’re not listed above, please contact us. We’ll conduct a free eligibility assessment to help determine the right membership pathway for you.
Contact Us Now to learn more about becoming a valued member of VMHPAA.