Frequently Asked Questions (from Volunteering Victoria)
These FAQ for volunteers are provided by Volunteering Victoria
What are the benefits of volunteering?
As a volunteer, not only are you giving to the community but you can also reap rewards from your volunteer work. Volunteers often gain personal satisfaction, develop social networks, learn new skills, gain work experience and maintain existing skills.
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What kind of agency/organisation involves volunteers?
Volunteering typically takes place in not-for-profit agencies. Not for profit agencies, objectives are social rather than economic and they do not distribute profits to owners or shareholders.
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Where can I volunteer?
There are many areas in which you can volunteer. You can work indoors, outdoors, one on one or with groups, day-time, evenings or weekends, weekly, monthly or just occasionally.
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How much time do I have to commit?
The time and commitment required to be a volunteer varies from agency to agency and will depend on the volunteer position you choose. The commitment may be as little as an hour a week or as much as two days a week depending on the needs of the agency and on the availability of the volunteer.
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Are there short-term volunteer opportunities available?
Yes there are. If you are not as interested in an ongoing volunteer role, there are plenty of other short-term opportunities available. Short-term volunteering roles usually take place in organisations involved in celebrating a special event, exhibition, radiothon and festivals.
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Are there any special requirements?
In some specialised agencies all staff, both paid and volunteer, are asked to undergo a police check for a criminal record. You would be informed of any legal or training requirements during or prior to an interview.
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Is training required?
Training and skill requirements vary amongst organisations. Some positions require little formal training and specialist skills, whilst others have greater requirements. Training is generally provided for by the agency, volunteers should not be required to incur any expense for the training they undertake.
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Will I need to be interviewed?
Once you have selected and contacted the organisation of your choice, you will probably be invited to attend an interview. Organisations conduct interviews so people can find out more about the volunteer job and the organisation can find the right volunteer for the job.
In the interview you should be ready to answer questions about your previous work experience, both paid and voluntary, discuss your skills and qualifications and provide the names of referees.
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Can I volunteer overseas?
Most Australian agencies which send people overseas to work require applicants to have a high level of experience in their field both for short and long-term placements. Generally you should also have a minimum of two years experience in your field of work. You may be required to supply copies of your qualifications when you apply. Some organisations require a financial contribution to help with costs such as airfares and accommodation.
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As a rule, if you wish to volunteer, overseas organisations require that you are an Australian citizen or hold permanent residency status in Australia.
Am I covered by insurance?
It is important to ask an organisation if they have insurance to cover you in the case of accident or injury as Volunteers are not paid employees and are therefore not covered by WorkCover. You should ask the organisation if they have both Public Liability (the policy must mention Volunteers) and personal accident insurance for volunteers. Personal Accident and Injury insurance cover should provide protection in the event of an accident whilst performing volunteer work.
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