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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
Everyone can find a volunteer role that fits their skills and interests. For many roles, all that is required is a willingness to help and time to contribute. Some roles many need training or specific skills, such as volunteering as a photographer, social media assistant or board member.
Volunteering for non-English speakers
If you're learning English, volunteering is a great way to practice and improve your language skills. Many roles welcome volunteers with basic English skills. Some even seek speakers of specific languages to better connect with diverse communities.
International students and visa holders can volunteer too. Most visa types let you volunteer, but you need to check your visa rules.
Find out more about a culturally diverse volunteer experience with Boroondara volunteer, Mikiko Baker.
Volunteering for people with disabilities
Many organisations provide accessible and inclusive volunteering opportunities. If you have a specific need, talk to the organisation about it to find a role that fits.
You might ask the organisation about:
- the physical layout where you’ll be volunteering
- bringing a support worker while you volunteer
- sensory adjustments like light or noise when volunteering
- adjusting some parts of the role to suit your skills and abilities.
Find out more about volunteering with a disability with Boroondara volunteer, Janene Sadhu.
Volunteering for young people under 18
Volunteering for young people is a great way to learn new skills, help your community, and find your passions. Volunteering can also be a good way to meet the requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh award and school community subjects.
Some volunteer roles have age limits based on the type of work, insurance rules or Working with Children Check requirements. If you're over 16, you might need a Police Check and permission from a parent or guardian.
Requirements and checks
If you will be volunteering with children or vulnerable community members you may need a Working with Children Check (free for volunteers) or Police Check.
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 ask your supervisor for references.
Volunteering can provide:
- valuable experience
- help you develop new skills
- expand your professional network.
What happens after you apply
After applying for a role, the organisation will contact you about the next steps. When you apply for roles, you aren’t making a commitment.
If you haven’t heard back within 2 weeks, you can inform the Boroondara Volunteer Resource Centre who can follow up for you. Contact us by email at [email protected] or call 9278 4550.
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're 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.