Kickstart VIC provides specialised youth mentoring, community access, respite services, recreational support and tailored programs for children, young people and young adults aged 8–30. Our focus is simple: support young people through connection, consistency and practical life experiences.
Personalised youth mentoring programs
One of Kickstart VIC’s core services is specialised youth mentoring. Our mentoring approach focuses on relationship-building because positive, consistent relationships often create the foundation for long-term personal growth.
Youth mentors work one-on-one with participants to help develop:
- life skills and independence
- goal setting and motivation
- emotional resilience
- communication and relationship-building skills
- confidence in social settings
- healthy routines and wellbeing habits
Programs are tailored to each young person’s circumstances rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. This personalised method allows participants to work toward goals that genuinely matter to them.
NDIS support services focused on independence
Kickstart VIC provides support services designed for young people participating in the NDIS. Our mentoring framework focuses on improving independence through practical skill development, community participation and confidence-building.
Areas commonly supported include:
- daily living skills
- vocational readiness
- community participation
- health and wellbeing goals
- recreational engagement
- social confidence development
This practical support model helps young people move toward greater independence while building essential skills for everyday life.
Respite care and short-term support
Respite care is another important service offered through Kickstart VIC. Caring responsibilities can be demanding for families and carers, and planned short-term support can be valuable for everyone involved.
Kickstart provides respite options that may include:
- weekend respite experiences
- short-term respite stays
- recreational getaways
- group-based activities
- community experiences
- outdoor adventures and camps
These experiences are designed to create meaningful memories while also supporting personal development and social connection. Families and carers also benefit from planned breaks and additional support.
Group activities and empowerment programs
Young people often thrive when they feel connected to their peers and community. Kickstart VIC offers structured group activities and empowerment programs that combine fun with skill development.
Programs may include sports activities, outdoor adventures, camps and retreats, creative projects, social events and community-based experiences. These programs encourage teamwork, leadership, confidence-building and social participation while providing enjoyable experiences that strengthen friendships and self-esteem.
Community access and real-world support
Kickstart uses community-based support to help young people participate in real-world environments where confidence, connection and independence can grow naturally.
This approach allows mentors to:
- build stronger relationships
- deliver support in practical everyday settings
- improve community engagement
- increase participation
- create personalised support experiences
Community access support can be especially valuable for young people who may struggle with traditional service delivery models or need support to feel confident outside the home.
Why relationship-based support matters
What separates effective youth services from standard support programs is often the quality of relationships built over time.
Kickstart VIC emphasises trust, consistency, patience and positive role modelling. Our philosophy focuses on seeing the value in every individual and helping young people build confidence through meaningful relationships.
Frequently asked questions
Who can access Kickstart VIC services?
Kickstart VIC supports children, teenagers and young adults aged 8–30, including NDIS participants and young people connected with DFFH-funded supports. Suitability depends on the young person’s goals, support needs, location and the program being requested.
Does Kickstart VIC provide respite services?
Yes. We offer respite support and short-term accommodation options, including camps, weekend stays and recreational experiences designed to support both participants and carers.
Are mentoring programs personalised?
Yes. Programs are tailored to individual goals, strengths and support requirements rather than using generic support plans.
What skills do participants develop?
Participants commonly work on life skills, independence, social confidence, employment readiness, health goals and community participation.
Does Kickstart VIC run group activities?
Yes. Activities include camps, sports, outdoor experiences, social events and empowerment programs designed to build confidence and social connection.