SECTION 3 - Important information for Mentors

What will the training for mentors involve?

The training for mentors is designed to provide cross-cultural awareness and reinforce mentor skills.

Training will include the following topics:

• aim of program including clear guidelines about roles and responsibilities of a coach or mentor

• training and support throughout the period of mentoring and how feedback will be sought from mentors on the program’s success from their individual perspectives

• cross-cultural training for mentors, outlining key issues facing skilled migrants in Australia, important cultural differences, similarities, communication pointers etc.

What qualities are you looking for in mentors?

It is important that potential mentors are able to fulfil their commitment to the program and embrace the spirit of engaging with people from a range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

The program will best suit mentors who:

• are genuinely interested in people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds

• are able to commit to the program requirements including the training

• understand that this is a volunteer program and are prepared for a very small amount of out of pocket expenses to cover a cup of coffee with the mentee (for example) (any other major expenses should be covered by the program or the mentor’s organisation).

What are the expectations of mentors?

The mentors will be expected to:

• commit to the principles and practical requirements of the program

• liaise regularly with the mentee and initiate the majority of interaction

• give the mentee sufficient warning, where possible, should any change to the program occur

• assist the mentee within the spirit and practical endeavours of the program but not undertake any other support activities unless as an outcome of the mentor's own initiative

• alert the ‘Opening Doors’ program of any potential issues or concerns as soon as possible

• understand that this is a mutually beneficial volunteer program and are prepared for a very small amount of out of pocket expenses to cover a cup of coffee with the mentee (for example) (any other major expenses should be covered by the program or the mentor’s organisation).

How can I become a mentor or refer other interested parties?

In the pilot program, mentors will belong to the organisations represented by the Future Focus Group syndicate and the broader Future Focus Group participants. To register your interest in becoming a mentor, please contact us by email: