For Volunteers

Volunteering takes many forms and can be practised through both informal and formal channels.

Informal volunteering happens outside of an organisation and can include acts of support to non-household members (excluding family) such as cooking meals, assisting with home repairs or childcare. On the other hand, formal volunteering is done as part of an organisation and usually involves the strategic vision, structure and supervision of a charity or not-for-profit.

The term ‘volunteering’ does not mean the same thing to all people and cultures. We recognise that Western definitions of volunteering, especially regarding giving, sharing, and helping family, may be different to those used among multicultural and First Nations communities. We value and support all forms of volunteering and strive to better understand how it works in all communities in NSW.

Volunteering plays a crucial role in supporting the cultural, social and economic fabric of local communities. This covers many important industries including health, education, sport, animal welfare, environmental conservation, arts and culture, museum and heritage, community services, aged care, disaster relief, human rights, migrant services, emergency response and many more.

This incredible reach and scale is reflected in the fact that over 14 million Australians volunteer every year, contributing approximately 3.44 billion hours in 2023 to communities across the country.

In 2023, the value of volunteering in NSW amounted to a staggering $178 billion, involving around 4.3 million volunteers and 63.9% of people over 15.

Volunteering is a two-way relationship. Not only does helping others benefit the greater community, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience that is scientifically linked to a number of social, professional, physical, psychological and cognitive advantages.

As a volunteer, you can expect to:

Connect with others

• Meet and mingle with like-minded people who share your interests and values
• Strengthen your ties to the community, especially if you’re new to the area
• Enjoy a sense of belonging by expanding your social circle

Gain a fresh lease on life

• Renew your energy and creativity by trying something new
• Feel a sense of pride by aligning your core values with a worthy cause
• Refresh your sense of purpose through participating in a fulfilling activity

Learn new skills

• Grow and strengthen your confidence
• Practice your communication and interpersonal skills in new situations
• Develop your leadership skills and the ability to work cohesively with others

Care for your mind and body

• Experience increased psychological well-being, happiness and satisfaction
• Combat the effects of social isolation, depression and anxiety
• Lessen the symptoms of chronic pain and reduce the risk of heart disease

Improve your career and employment prospects

• Broaden your professional network
• Gain valuable work experience and training in your desired field
• Demonstrate attractive workplace qualities including commitment, drive and dedication

Frequently Asked Questions

Search for volunteer opportunities in your local area, adapted to your interests and availability, using our search engine.

If you’re looking to narrow your search, browse:

• Skilled volunteer opportunities
  Leverage your existing skills and experience. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to receive a weekly round-up.
• Special event volunteer opportunities
  From sporting events to art festivals, align your interests with a worthy cause. You can also stay in the loop with our newsletter to receive a weekly round-up.

Once you have identified a suitable volunteer vacancy, send your application to the organisation, with your personal details, relevant skills and experience as described in the position description. Please note some volunteer vacancies will have a number of applicants.

Find a volunteer role

Our free introductory workshop, Bridge to Volunteering, covers all the fundamental basics, including the benefits, rights and responsibilities of volunteers and organisations. It is held on Fridays from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Bookings are essential.

Attend a Bridge to Volunteering workshop

The Volunteer Handbook has been designed to support new and existing volunteers as they embark on their volunteering journey.  The handbook can be used as a once off training resource or accessed repeatedly as a reference tool.

View the Volunteer Handbook

The Centre for Volunteering has partnered with the NSW Police Force to offer volunteers and organisations a national police check at the reduced rate of $15. Once obtained, this check remains in the applicant’s personal portfolio and can be used towards future volunteering applications and endeavours.

More About Police Checks

If you would like help in finding a suitable volunteer opportunity, we can support you.

Contact our friendly and experienced team who can guide you through where to look, how to apply, and more.

Contact us

If you’re looking to further build your skills and develop confidence, view The Centre’s nationally recognised training.

Learn more about Nationally Recognised Training

Additionally, check out the Volunteering resources on the Knowledge Base library.

Browse the Knowledge Base