Cultural mentoring

Cultural mentoring

Strong connection to culture, Country, and community is essential for social and emotional wellbeing. For First Nations NDIS participants, having a mentor who understands and respects your cultural identity makes all the difference.

Our Geelong and Melbourne teams provide Aboriginal-led, culturally safe mentoring designed to empower you. We walk alongside you to build life skills, navigate the NDIS, and strengthen your cultural ties in a way that feels safe, authentic, and entirely on your terms.

Culturally safe, Aboriginal-led guidance

We know that standard disability support doesn't always hit the mark when it comes to cultural needs. Our mentoring is delivered by First Nations staff and culturally trained mentors who respect your family's story, Kinship, and traditions.

Our cultural mentoring programs are built to adapt, and they strongly encourage:

  • Deepening your connection to culture, Country, and community.
  • Building confidence and self-advocacy skills in a culturally safe space.
  • Navigating the challenges of daily life with a mentor who truly understands.
  • Engaging in traditional practices, storytelling, and cultural expression.
  • Strengthening social and emotional wellbeing through shared experience.
  • Bridging the gap between the NDIS and your local community.

Supports we offer

We shape our mentoring around your personal goals and cultural journey.

Cultural connection & identity

Exploring and maintaining your heritage.

  • Supported visits to local Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and gathering places.
  • Learning about and participating in traditional practices, art, and storytelling.
  • Connecting with Elders and community leaders in a safe environment.
  • Spending meaningful time on Country to support healing and wellbeing.

Life skills & NDIS navigation

Practical support through a cultural lens.

  • Culturally safe mentoring to build everyday independence and confidence.
  • Help advocating for your needs with mainstream services and providers.
  • Navigating NDIS plans to ensure your funding supports your cultural goals.
  • Setting life and employment goals that align with your family values.

Why choose OdysseyCare

OdysseyCare wasn't born in a boardroom. Leah, our founder, is a mum to four kids—one of whom is an NDIS participant. She built this company from lived experience to ensure families get real, respectful support. Our dedicated Aboriginal-led programs were created to ensure First Nations participants receive the culturally safe, high-quality care they deserve.

Families and participants stick with us because:

  • Programs are Aboriginal-led and deeply embedded in culturally safe practices.
  • We respect the vital importance of family, Kinship, and community ties.
  • Trauma-informed care is baked into how we operate.
  • We carefully match you with mentors who align with your cultural background and needs.
  • Consistent, high-standard coverage across Geelong and Melbourne.

Frequently asked questions

Our cultural mentoring is delivered by First Nations support workers and mentors who bring lived experience, cultural knowledge, and a deep understanding of community to their roles.

Absolutely. We believe in the healing power of Country. Mentoring sessions can take place outdoors, at significant local cultural sites, or at community gathering places depending on what feels right for you.

Cultural mentoring specifically integrates your cultural identity into your capacity-building goals. It ensures your support is delivered in a way that respects Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing, rather than using a standard, westernized approach.

NDIS funded support

Wondering about funding? These supports usually tap into your NDIS budget depending on your goals.

Typically, these programs fall under:

  • Capacity Building: Increased Social and Community Participation.
  • Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living.
  • Core Supports: Assistance with social, economic and community participation.

If looking at your plan gives you a headache, don't stress. The team can sort out the service agreements and show you exactly how to make your funding work for your cultural and capacity-building goals.

Important information

Getting things right from day one is crucial.

  • Talk to us. Share your cultural background, community connections, and what you hope to achieve with your mentor before we start.
  • We need the standard onboarding paperwork signed off.
  • Nobody gets a generic plan. We map out a mentoring strategy that respects your cultural boundaries and family dynamics.

Getting started today

We are always keen to hear from participants, families, carers, or Support Coordinators. Looking for a mentor who understands your culture? Give the friendly team a call today to ask a few questions or register your interest.