Becoming a Volunteer
The following is a brief overview of the steps to becoming a volunteer:
- Attend a Volunteer Information Evening.
- Fill out an Expression of Interest Form.
- Attend an interview with the ASRC’s Volunteer Support Team.
- Attend the Volunteer Induction Program and complete a Police Check.
- Attend an interview with an ASRC Program Coordinator.
- Start volunteering!
1. Attend a Volunteer Information Evening
Individuals interested in becoming a volunteer must first attend an ASRC Volunteer Information Evening. At the Information Evening you will have the opportunity to learn more about the ASRC and how it operates, speak with Program Coordinators about volunteer opportunities available and find out other ways in which you can contribute.
For details of the next Volunteer Information Evening, click here.
You can book a place at the next information evening by sending an email to volunteer_admin@asrc.org.au
Entry to the Volunteer Information Evening is by
- Metcard (concession daily tickets: preferably for zones 1&2 as many asylum seekers live in the outer suburbs).
- Gold coin donation.
2. Fill out an Expression of Interest Form
At the Volunteer Information Evening you will be required to submit a Volunteer Expression of Interest form, including your personal details, experience and availability.
The Expression of Interest form provides you with an opportunity to indicate which ASRC Programs you would like to volunteer with. It is recommended that you complete this section of the form after speaking with the Program Coordinators at the Volunteer Information Evening.
3. Attend an interview with the Volunteer Support Team
At the Information Evening you will have the opportunity to sign up for an interview with the Volunteer Support team, which will take place during the week following week. These group interviews will allow us to learn more about your skills, interests and what you hope to gain out of volunteering. This will assist us with ensuring that right person is matched to the right job, while offering other ways to get involved for those who will not go on to volunteer at this stage.
4. Attend the Volunteer Induction Program and complete a Police Check
Following the initial interview with the Volunteer Support team, those who have been successful will be invited to attend our Volunteer Induction Program, which comprises of two all day training sessions of a Saturday. During the Volunteer Induction Program you will learn more about the role of volunteers, learn more about issues facing asylum seekers in Australia and develop your skills and knowledge base that will be vital for your volunteering at the ASRC.
You will also be required to undertake a police check at your own expense of $12.50. Alternatively, if you have a police check issued within the last 12 months this will be accepted.
5. Attend an interview with an ASRC Program Coordinator
Following your initial interview with the Volunteer Support Team, you will have been shortlisted to an ASRC Program based on your preferences, your availability and the needs of the ASRC. At the final session of the Induction Program you will attend an interview with the Coordinator for the Program for which you have been shortlisted.
Please note that while we certainly endeavor to place volunteers in a program that is high on their preference list, ultimately volunteer placement down to many factors, including your qualifications, availability, and the needs of the ASRC.
6. Start volunteering!
Following your final interview, if successful your start date will be negotiated between you and your Program Coordinator.
Please note that in some ASRC Programs, additional training is required following the induction.
Please note that we are unable to accept applications from people under the age of 18 or over the age of 75 for insurance liability reasons.
