About Peer Connect

Peer Connect is for people with disability who want practical tips and tools to find, start or lead peer groups anywhere in Australia.

Cameron explains how being part of peer group, Enabled Youth Disability Network has made him feel less alone

What is a peer group?

A peer group is where people with shared experiences can come together to learn, connect and grow. They may have in common a disability, health condition, identity, caring role or other life experience. 

There is no right or wrong way to participate in a peer group. Some people talk from their first meeting, while others take time to listen before sharing. You do not need to be an expert. Your experiences, ideas and perspective are as valuable as everyone else’s. 

 

People sitting around a table doing an activity

What is Peer Connect and who is it for?

Peer Connect is an online resource that brings together practical tips, useful tools and real world experiences in one place. Whether you’re looking for a peer group, thinking about starting one or growing your existing group, Peer Connect can help you do it.

Our story

Peer Connect began in 2014 as part of the Disability Support Organisation Capacity Building Project, funded through the NDIA Sector Development Fund. The project brought together 18 membership-based disability organisations from around Australia to establish peer networks, with JFA Purple Orange providing support to host and maintain the site.

In 2026, Peer Connect was redeveloped to make its wealth of information easier to find, understand and use. The new website was co-designed by people with disability and JFA Purple Orange, with a focus on making it simpler for people to find, start, lead and strengthen peer groups.

The redevelopment was made possible through grant funding from the Young People in Nursing Homes National Alliance (YPINHNA), provided by the Disability Safeguarding Policy Branch of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

How peer groups impact people’s lives

Emma talks about getting the confidence to start a peer group and why she wished she had done it sooner

“The main mistake I made was not having the confidence to do it sooner.”

Emma Losin
Game designer, app developer, experienced peer group facilitator

Daniella talks about how peer groups have helped her grow into a strong advocate for others

“I feel way more empowered”


Daniella Fraser
Author, advocate and peer group member

Andrew talks about starting a peer group to feel more connected

“The people in the group mean so much to me.”

Andrew Whitehead
Peer group manager

Questions people have