NATIONAL MENTORING PROGRAM

What is the AWA National Mentoring Program? 

The AWA National Mentoring Program is an evolution of our successful state and territory based mentoring programs, designed to connect water professionals across Australia. Through our new digital platform, it offers structured guidance, networking, and knowledge-sharing opportunities to help individuals grow professionally and contribute to the water industry. 

What are the benefits of participating in the AWA Mentoring program?

Mentors

• Enhance your leadership, coaching, and communication skills by guiding future industry professionals.
• Gain fresh perspectives and insights that can inspire your own career and approaches.
• Build your professional network and connect with a diverse group of mentees and fellow mentors committed to industry advancement.

Mentees

• Receive one-on-one support from experienced mentors across the water sector, tailored to your specific career stage and professional interests.
• Connect with water professionals from around the country, expanding your industry contacts and knowledge.
• With a structured approach, the program offers resources and milestones to help you stay on track and measure your progress

Why did you change the program from Branch based programs to a National Program?  

We transitioned from state and territory based mentoring programs to a national, digital platform enabled framework to be a more accessible, supported, professional development program for participants. The new online platform facilitates a seamless matching process. It also offers greater reach and inclusivity of members from remote, rural, and international locations and those who may be unable to attend in-person networking or professional development events. 

Who is eligible to participate in the National Mentoring Program? 

The program is exclusive to AWA Members as part of our commitment to offering meaningful, career-building experiences within your AWA membership.

What are the costs involved in the mentoring program? 

There is no cost for mentors, as they generously contribute their knowledge, skills, and expertise. For mentees, participation in this pilot year is free of charge for current financial members of the Australian Water Association (AWA), whether they are corporate-nominated members or individual members. Please note that both mentors and mentees must have an active AWA membership to take part in the program. Corporate members may add employees who are not currently members, to participate as Mentees for $100 per employee.

What are the dates for the 2025 National Mentoring Program? 

• Expressions of interest will go out to Mentors in December.
• Applications for the 2024/25 program open through the digital platform for Mentors and Mentees in January 2025
• The formal program will commence in at the end of February 2025 and runs until December 2025.

How long do I need to commit to the mentoring program? 

The AWA National Mentoring Program requires a 10-month commitment. During this time, it is suggested that participants meet approximately once a month, though specific meeting schedules should be agreed upon by the mentor and mentee. 

How do I sign up for the National Mentoring Program? 

In December 2024, we are taking Expressions of Interest for potential Mentors.

Registrations will be open for mentors and mentees to register via the digital platform in January 2025 using the specific program URLs provided through AWA communications. Watch this space, you will hear from us in January with all the details on how to sign up.

What is the matching process? 

In the registration form and after registration, mentors and mentees will be asked to create their profile with the expertise they are seeking or possess. Once a mentee has set up their profile, the platform will consider the profile information to suggest the most appropriate mentor matches considering things like interest areas and career goals so make sure you spend time on your profile. Mentees will then request to connect with a Mentor, and once that is accepted, the mentoring relationship can commence.

Can I be both a mentor and a mentee? 

Yes, the platform allows you to sign up as both a mentor and a mentee. You can indicate your preferences during registration. 

Can I mentor more than one mentee? 

Yes, mentors can choose to be matched with up to two mentees at a time, depending on their availability and preference. 

How often should mentors and mentees meet? 

The suggested commitment is to meet approximately once a month over the 10-month program with a minimum of 5 meetings through the course of the mentoring relationship. Given we are trying to open Mentoring to a wider pool of water professionals in dispersed geographic locations, you will most likely meet virtually. If you live nearby you can opt to meet in person.

What steps should I take during the first meeting with my mentor or mentee? 

During the first meeting, it’s important to establish clear goals for the relationship, define expectations, and agree on how and when to meet. Be sure to discuss communication preferences, confidentiality, and how you will evaluate progress. 

How do I get the most out of the mentoring relationship? 

Set clear objectives for your mentoring journey and communicate them with your mentor. Use the mentoring digital platform tools and resources to help scheduling meetings, preparing for discussions, and following through on action items. 

What resources are available for mentors and mentees?

The AWA National Mentoring digital platform provides various resources, including guides, templates, and training, to help both mentors and mentees succeed in their roles. You can access these resources through the platform's resource.

What should I do if issues arise in the mentor-mentee relationship? 

First, try to resolve any issues through open communication with your mentor or mentee. If the problem persists, you can contact the AWA mentoring team for further assistance or mediation. If necessary, a new mentor or mentee may be assigned. 

What is the process for ending a mentoring relationship? 

Mentoring relationships can conclude when the mentee’s goals have been achieved, or if personal circumstances change. It’s important to agree on an ending process that is amicable and respects the efforts made by both parties. If the relationship is not working, you may decide to end it with a no-fault agreement. 

How does the digital mentoring platform work? 

PushFar is the digital platform that supports the AWA National Mentoring Program. It facilitates the registration process, matches mentors and mentees, and provides tools for managing your mentoring relationship, such as scheduling meetings, setting goals and tracking progress.

How are mentors and mentees matched? 

The AWA Mentoring platform uses a matching algorithm based on Mentor and Mentee profiles provided during registration including areas of expertise mentors can provide and areas of development mentees are looking for. If necessary, the AWA team can assist in helping to find an appropriate match.

How soon after signing up will I be assigned a mentor or mentee in the platform? 

The matching process will commence once a Mentee completes a registration and profile. Mentees will be provided Mentor profiles and will be notified in the Pushfar mentoring platform once a suggested match has been made. It is then up to Mentees to review the profiles to see if the suggested Mentors are suitable and to request their preferred Mentor via the platform.

What resources are available for mentors and mentees? 

The AWA National Mentoring digital platform provides various resources, including guides, templates, and training, to help both mentors and mentees succeed in their roles. You can access these resources through the platform's resource hub.

What if I have technical issues with the AWA National Mentoring platform? 

If you encounter any technical difficulties while using the platform, you should first consult the platform’s help features and resources. If you can’t find the answer you're looking for then please reach out to the AWA National Mentoring team at membership@awa.asn.au.

How is privacy and confidentiality handled in the program?

All information shared during the application process and throughout the mentoring relationship is kept confidential according to AWA's privacy policies. Mentors and mentees are also encouraged to maintain confidentiality within their mentoring discussions.