At South West TAFE, we recognise the strong connection between social, physical and mental wellbeing and educational success. Our Student Wellbeing Team is here to understand your needs, provide support throughout your education or training journey, and help you stay positive, healthy and focused on your goals. goals. Students can access free and confidential support through a coordinated approach that connects them with the assistance they need. Whether you are experiencing personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, our team is here to help. Support is available in person, by phone or via email, and no referral is required.
Julie Burch, our Chaplain, is a valued member of the SWTAFE community who provides support to students across all campuses. Located primarily at the Warrnambool and Sherwood campuses, Julie works closely with our Wellbeing and Support Services teams and offers a welcoming, confidential space for students to talk.
Julie enjoys supporting students as they navigate study, assessments, career decisions and life's challenges. She works with a diverse range of learners, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) students, and can offer support for family concerns, mental health challenges, health issues, grief, stress, loneliness, or balancing competing commitments.
Julie describes her role as being a caring listener and supportive friend. If you need someone to talk to, please feel free to reach out.
Email: wellbeing@swtafe.edu.au
The following links are provided for information and support purposes external to South West TAFE.
Australia’s national support service for people impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence, offering free and confidential counselling, information and referrals 24/7.
TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter)
Free and confidential mental health counselling for tradies, apprentices and blue-collar workers, available via phone or text.
Lifeline
Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services for anyone experiencing emotional distress or needing someone to talk to.
Beyond Blue
Offers mental health support, information and resources for people experiencing anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges.
13YARN - Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
A national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, providing culturally safe support from Indigenous counsellors.
Djirra - Djirra
Djirra provides practical support to Aboriginal women* experiencing family violence, or who have experienced it in the past. We also provide cultural programs and workshops.
Mental Health | South West Healthcare
Provides local mental health assessment, treatment and support services for individuals experiencing mental health concerns.
Brophy
Supports young people and families through counselling, housing assistance, wellbeing programs and community support services.
Headspace
Provides mental health, wellbeing, education and employment support for young people aged 12 to 25.
Ask Izzy
A free online tool that helps people find local support services, including housing, food, mental health, financial and legal assistance.
Womens Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West
Promotes the health, safety and wellbeing of women through education, advocacy, support programs and community initiatives.
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. If you're struggling, support is available both within SWTAFE and through the services listed above. You don't have to navigate challenges alone.
