E-Newsletter 4th Edition

Subject: Make lived experience count in the 2026 Census

Welcome to all new subscribers. In this e-newsletter, we’ll share an important opportunity for peer workers in the upcoming 2026 ABS National Census, an invitation to follow the AAPW on social media, and a reminder about our upcoming online public information and Q&A sessions.

Peer Work Counts

Count Lived Experience in the 2026 ABS National Census

The National Census only happens once every five years.

Right now, Peer Work is not recognised as a distinct occupation in the Australian Bureau of Statistics occupation classification. Together, we can help change that.

On 11 August, you can take one small action that helps create the data needed to drive accountability and strengthen peer work across Australia.

If lived experience is an essential part of your role, add 'Lived Exp' before your job title when completing the 2026 Census.

For example:

• Lived Exp Peer Worker
• Lived Exp Carer

People in all lived experience roles are encouraged to participate, including those done by and for consumers, carers, family and kin.

Why does this matter

Governments say they value lived experience and peer work. However, we have no national data on where and how people are employed in lived experience roles.

Without data, it is difficult to:

• Track the growth and distribution of the lived experience peer workforce and hold systems accountable for their promises to employ us.
• Improve consumer access to lived experience peer workers, carers, advocates and leaders.
• Build pathways for consumers to become lived experience peer professionals and understand how training translates into employment opportunities.
• Amplify the efforts of the lived experience movement to have our unique skills and expertise recognised, and ensure employment is equitable and representative of all peers.

The Census on 11 August is our chance to gather this important employment data.

This initiative was developed and advanced by the WA National Policy Consumer Advisory Group. We thank them for their leadership in researching, designing and advocating for this important work.

You can learn more and explore their digital resources, including their submission to the ABS's Occupation Standard Classification for Australia, via the link below.

Learn More

Reminder: We're hosting public information and Q&A sessions

There are only 4 spots left for our free online information and Q&A session tomorrow, Wednesday, 8 July, 5 PM – 6 PM AEST.

If you miss out, don’t worry; there is also a second session on Wednesday, 12 August, 5 PM – 6 PM AEST.

We'll share how the Association was established, the structure of the future team, an update on our progress, including some of our early key initiatives, projects and advocacy priorities.

RSVP now, and we'll send you an email invitation to join the webinar.

Don’t forget to bring your questions!

RSVP for 8 July

RSVP for 12 August

We’ve launched on social media

Last week, the AAPW launched its social media presence.

Following us is an easy way to stay up to date with Association news, advocacy updates, and opportunities across the peer workforce.

We invite all peer workers, allies, and anyone interested in staying connected and informed to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram