Become a Mentor

The matching of mentors and mentees will be coordinated by the Mentorship Program Committee. At the start of the program, both mentors and mentees will complete a brief online questionnaire capturing their career goals, interests, and areas where guidance is sought. While it is recognized that career paths may include sector changes, career breaks, and diverse experiences, the Mentorship Program Committee will make every effort to pair compatible mentors and mentees based on shared interests and professional objectives to maximize the value of the program.

Existing informal mentor–mentee relationships, particularly between experienced members and new migrants, are encouraged to be formalized through this program to ensure structure and mutual benefit.

If at any point either a mentor or mentee feels that the pairing is not optimal, they may contact their Mentorship Program Champion for guidance or to explore a rematch.

The standard duration of the mentoring arrangement is six months. Should both participants wish to extend the mentorship beyond this period, the Mentorship Program Champion will facilitate discussions with the Mentorship Program Committee to support the continuation.

It is acknowledged that not all mentor–mentee relationships may work out due to differences in interests, schedules, or personalities. There may be situations where any of the parties (Mentor, Mentee, or Mentorship Program Champion(s)) wish to withdraw from the Program or require early closure of the Mentorship Program Arrangement. The reasons for withdrawal may vary, and such closures can be conducted as a “no-fault” closure.

A no-fault closure is a respectful, blame-free way to end a mentorship relationship when it is not working effectively, without suggesting that either the mentor or mentee is at fault. A no-fault closure can be initiated by either party. Its primary purpose is to ensure a positive outcome for both participants, without attributing blame to either party. The Mentorship Program Champion(s) may be requested to facilitate this process and support a smooth transition.

Closure should be conducted with professionalism, integrity, and respect. It is recommended to hold a final meeting to:

• Discuss the reasons for closure,
• Reflect on the highlights and positive outcomes of the relationship, and
• Provide constructive feedback to help both parties learn and grow from the experience.

These matters are documented in Annexure D, to be completed by the Mentor, Mentee, and Mentorship Program Champion(s). In all cases, no fault is attributed to either party, and participants are encouraged to engage in future iterations of the Mentorship Program.

It is important to formally acknowledge the conclusion of the Mentorship Program Arrangement, even if the Mentor and Mentee agree to continue their mentorship beyond the program period.

At the end of the program, both Mentor and Mentee are requested to complete a Program Feedback Form (Annexure D). This feedback helps assess whether the intended benefits were achieved. The form also provides a structured way to:

• Recognize the value of the Program,
• Appreciate the time and contributions of Mentors,
• Capture lessons learned by both Mentors and Mentees, and
• Reflect on each other’s professional and personal development.

This evaluation ensures continuous improvement of the Mentorship Program and reinforces a culture of learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

All participants must uphold the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity throughout the program. Any information shared during mentoring sessions—whether personal, professional, or sensitive—must remain strictly confidential and not be disclosed to any third party without explicit consent.

Participants are expected to:

• Follow the objectives, guidelines, and spirit of the Mentorship Program
• Engage respectfully, without judgement or bias
• Avoid pursuing personal agendas or leveraging the relationship for unrelated purposes
• Stay within the defined scope and boundaries outlined in this guidebook
• Maintain professionalism in communication and behaviour at all times

Any breach of confidentiality or inappropriate conduct may result in removal from the program.

This Mentorship Program is an initiative of the ICAI – Melbourne (Australia) Chapter Inc. and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ICAI India. The program does not guarantee any specific outcomes or results. Its primary purpose is to support new migrants, emerging professionals, and members navigating career transitions in understanding the local business environment and advancing their professional journey in Victoria, Australia.

Participation in the program is voluntary, and both mentors and mentees are expected to contribute equally to the mentoring relationship. Neither the program, its organisers, mentors, mentees, nor the ICAI Melbourne Chapter shall be held liable for any decisions, consequences, or outcomes arising from participation in this program.