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Volunteering is a rewarding way to contribute to your community and gain new skills and experience. Whether you are new to volunteering or looking for a role that suits you, here's some helpful information to get you started.
Understanding volunteering
Volunteering is unpaid. It offers valuable benefits such as personal growth, skills development, networking opportunities and a strong sense of community involvement.
You can even volunteer while working full-time. Many organisations offer flexible volunteering options, including evening, weekend or remote roles to accommodate different schedules.
Time commitment
The time commitment varies depending on the program. Some roles have minimum requirements, while others are flexible. Consider your availability and discuss this with the organisation.
Some organisations offer short-term or event-based volunteering opportunities, which are great for those with limited availability. Short-term volunteering is also a great way to try out volunteering for the first time.
Who can volunteer
You don't need prior experience for most volunteer roles, just a willingness to help. There are some specialised roles that may need training or specific skills such as volunteering as a photographer, social media volunteer or board member.
International students or visa holders can volunteer. Most visa types allow volunteering, but it’s important to check your visa conditions.
Volunteering for non-English speakers
If English is not your first language, there are still many volunteering roles available. Some opportunities do not require strong English skills. Volunteering can be a great way to improve your language skills while engaging with the community.
Volunteering for people with disabilities
Many organisations provide accessible and inclusive volunteering opportunities. If you have specific needs, discuss them with the organisation to find a suitable role.
Requirements and checks
Age restrictions may apply depending on the type of volunteer role or the organisation’s insurance limits. Some opportunities are available for volunteers under 18, but others may require participants to be over a certain age.
You may need a Working with Children check (free for volunteers) or police check, if you're volunteering with children or vulnerable community members.
Additional checks may apply depending on the role such as:
- reference checks
- NDIS Worker Screening check
- Aged Care Statutory Declaration.
Volunteering and career benefits
Volunteering can help you find paid employment. You can include volunteer work on your resume and request references from your volunteer supervisor.
Volunteering can provide:
- valuable experience
- help you develop new skills
- expand your professional network.
What happens after your expression of interest
After submitting your interest for a role, the volunteer organisation will contact you about the next steps. This may include an interview, training, or additional checks.
If you haven’t heard back within 2 weeks, you can notify the Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre who can follow up for you. Contact us by email at [email protected] or call 9278 4550.
We encourage you to explore and apply for multiple opportunities that match your interests and availability. When you apply for roles, you are not making a commitment.
Taking a break from volunteering
You can take leave from your volunteer role but it’s important to inform the organisation in advance so they can plan accordingly. If you are unable to continue volunteering, notify the organisation as soon as possible so they can make other arrangements.
More information
For more help or any other questions, contact the Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre at [email protected] or call 9278 4550.
Ready to find the right volunteer role for you? View our current opportunities.