Queensland Lived Experience Workforce Network
QLEWN is a statewide peak body led by, with, and for the Lived Experience workforce within the mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and suicide prevention sectors.
We're proud to power the IMPACT Network — a wider peer-led, cross-sector network that strengthens, connects, and elevates Queensland’s Lived–Living Experience (LLE) workforce across every region and sector.
Mission
Informed by our members, QLEWN aims to establish directions and voice positions that promote the interests of the Lived Experience workforce across Queensland, contributing to social and cultural change in the mental health, AOD, and suicide prevention sectors.
Vision
To enable Lived Experience workers to lead the ongoing development of and support for the Lived Experience workforce across Queensland.
Values
Our work is underpinned by our values of Respect, Equity, Authenticity, and Inclusion.
QLEWN recognises and honours all people with lived and living experience of mental distress, suicidality, and challenges with alcohol and other drugs — as well as the families, carers, kin, and communities who walk alongside them. You are not alone.
We recognise the courage it takes to share personal experiences in the service of change. To those within the Lived Experience Workforce, whether in paid or volunteer roles, we deeply value your leadership, advocacy, and commitment to transforming social attitudes and systems of care.
Together, we amplify the voices of lived and living experience to inspire hope, illuminate pathways to healing, and build more compassionate, inclusive, and responsive communities and systems. We do this with deep appreciation for those who came before us, and in service of those who will follow.
Background of QLEWN
QLEWN was started at a grassroots level by a group of passionate Lived Experience professionals who had experience working as, and with, other LE workers in a State, National, and International context. A unanimous agreement was held that the workforce lacked representation, had significant unmet needs and problematic issues in training and development. QLEWN was established as a starting point to address these issues.
The Workforce
Learn about The Lived Experience Workforce and roles
Our Work
See some of our current projects to understand who we are and what we do.
Join Us!
QLEWN is driven by the passion, enthusiasm, and commitment of our volunteer Management Committee, members, and supporters. Please be aware that our capacity is limited, and we do deliver as much as we can while we continue to build opportunities for future funding.
One of the most important things we can do right now is show that Lived Experience workers across Queensland are committed to ensuring our workforce is developed by us, with us, and for us. Becoming a QLEWN member might seem like a small step, but together we hold power. As a collective, we can influence the decisions that shape our work, our values, and our future. To explore how you can be part of this movement, visit our Membership page.
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