I Want To Volunteer

Do I need references?

Some organisations require references or referee contact details these vary depending on the volunteer role.

Will volunteering cost me anything?

It does not cost anything for individuals to volunteer. Out of pocket expenses must be agreed by the organisation and might include: travel, meals purchased while volunteering, special clothing etc. It is a good idea to enquire about expenses you may incur before committing to a volunteer role. Organisations providing volunteer opportunities may be able to reimburse minor expenses, such as travel.

I’ve been referred to an organisation. What happens next?

Most organisations will want to conduct a further interview. This gives you and the organisation the chance to assess each other. In addition, it gives you the chance to get a feel for the organisation, and sometimes the opportunity to meet the people you’ll be working with.

Are there age restrictions?

When volunteering for a not-for-profit organisation the usual minimum age is 18 and a few have upper age limits (this depends on the not-for-profit organisation’s insurance policy). However, school groups often participate in voluntary activities too. Organisations must have appropriate volunteer insurance to accommodate the age of their volunteers.

How much time do I need to give?

You can volunteer any time of the week, day or night. While most volunteering takes place during office hours, you can volunteer at evenings and weekends too, depending on what you want to do. Typical volunteer opportunities, outside office hours include: mentoring and tutoring, environmental work, door knock appeals and sports.

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Volunteers have the right:

• To work in a healthy and safe environment (refer to your State’s Work Health and Safety Act[s]);
• To be interviewed and employed in accordance with equal opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation;
• To be adequately covered by insurance;
• To be given accurate and truthful information about the organisation for which you are working;
• To be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses incurred on behalf of the organisation for which you are working;
• To be given a copy of the organisation’s volunteer policy and any other policy that affects your work;
• Not to fill a position previously held by a paid worker;
• Not to do the work of paid staff during industrial disputes;
• To have a job description and agreed working hours;
• To have access to a grievance procedure;
• To be provided with orientation to the organisation;
• To have your confidential and personal information dealt with in accordance with the principles of the Privacy Act 1988; and
• To be provided with sufficient training to do your job.

All volunteers are expected to:

• Respect confidentiality and privacy
• Be punctual and reliable
• Carry out the duties listed in your volunteer position description
• Be accountable
• Give notice if your availability changes or you are leaving the organisation
• Report any injuries or hazards that you notice in the workplace
• Adhere to the organisation’s policies and procedures
• Deal with complaints in the appropriate manner
• Undertake training as requested
• Ask for support when needed
• Support other team members