This community-based initiative supports people who are struggling with mental health and substance use issues. The program provides a safe and supportive environment for people to participate in group activities and receive support from others who are going through similar challenges.  

The program is tailored to different communities across Perth, including:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: offering culturally sensitive activities and recognising the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. By empowering people to reconnect with their mind, body, spirit, and community, the program aims to promote positive mental health and well-being outcomes.


• LGBTIQA+ individuals: provides a safe and inclusive environment for people who identify as LGBTIQA+ to connect with others, share experiences and overcome challenges.


• Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities: this initiative recognises that people from diverse cultural backgrounds may face unique challenges when it comes to accessing mental health support, such as a lack of culturally appropriate services, language barriers, and discrimination.


• Young people aged 16-24 years: provides opportunities for young people to connect with their peers who may be experiencing similar mental health and substance use issues. Peer support can help young people feel less isolated and provide a sense of community, which can be crucial to their recovery.


• People with co-occurring disability: this program recognises the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, and offers specialised activities and support services to meet their needs.


• Older people: this initiative recognises that older people may be more likely to experience substance use issues due to factors such as chronic pain, medication use, and changes in social circumstances. The program provides a supportive environment for older people to discuss their mental health and substance use issues with others who can relate to their experience.


• Those experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use issues: co-occurring conditions often require a coordinated approach that considers the unique needs of the individual and how these issues are interrelated.

 For more information please contact Rise on howcanwehelp@risenetwork.com.au or phone (08) 6274 3737

Download referral form [Editable PDF]
Download referral form [Word Doc]

The Rivers program is a partnership between Rise, Multicultural Services Centre of WA (MSCWA), and Wungening Aboriginal Corporation (Wungening). By understanding each community’s unique needs and backgrounds, the program aims to provide more effective support and help people to achieve better mental health and well-being outcomes.

Referral Pathways  Activity Calendar