Resources

We’re working towards creating a comprehensive hub of resources, guides, and training to better support volunteers and volunteer managers across our community.

Choosing the Right
Volunteer Role

With so many opportunities available, finding the right volunteer role is about what feels like a good fit for you. Taking the time to ask a few key questions can help you choose a role that aligns with your interests, goals, and values.

About the Organisation

  • Is the organisation a not-for-profit?
  • Can they provide a clear position description?
  • Do they have a volunteer policy that outlines your rights and responsibilities?
  • Are they open in sharing information about who they are and what they do?

Your Skills and Goals

  • Will this role help you use or develop your skills?
  • Does it offer opportunities to learn something new?
  • Can the organisation provide a reference if needed?

Support and Experience

  • Is there a dedicated contact person or Volunteer Manager to support you?
  • Will you receive appropriate training and an introduction to the role?
  • Are there reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses, if applicable?
  • Does the organisation have volunteer insurance in place?

Finding the Right Fit

  • Does the organisation’s purpose align with your values, interests, and what you want to contribute?

Choosing the right role should feel positive and rewarding, for both you
and the organisation. If it feels like a good fit, you’re more likely to have a meaningful and enjoyable volunteering experience.

Volunteering – What You Should Know

At Volunteering Geelong, we’re here to help you feel informed, confident, and supported on your volunteering journey. Before getting started, it’s helpful to understand a few key things about how volunteer roles are structured and supported.

Checks and screening

Most organisations will ask you to complete some checks before you begin. This is a normal part of volunteering and helps ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone involved. We can help with this, as part of your onboarding.

Depending on the role, this may include:

  • Reference checks
  • Police Checks
  • Working With Children Checks
  • Driver’s licence or background checks

The level of screening will reflect the responsibilities of the role. These processes are in place to protect volunteers, organisations, and the wider community.

Volunteer Agreements

Most organisations will provide a volunteer agreement. This outlines what you can expect from the role, as well as what’s expected of you.

A volunteer agreement may include:

  • Your role and responsibilities
  • The purpose of the position
  • Where you’ll be volunteering
  • Your expected hours or schedule
  • Your main contact or supervisor

Take the time to read through this information and ask questions if anything is unclear. Feeling clear and confident from the beginning helps set you up for a rewarding volunteering experience.

Types of Volunteer Roles

There are so many ways to get involved in your community. Explore the different areas below to find a cause that aligns with your interests, skills, and passions:

A volunteer agreement may include:

  • Animal Welfare – Support the care and wellbeing of animals
  • Arts & Culture – Get involved in creative, cultural, and community events
  • Community Services – Help strengthen and support local communities
  • Disability Services – Support inclusion and independence for people with disability
  • Disaster Relief – Assist communities in times of emergency and recovery
  • Education & Training – Share knowledge and support learning opportunities
  • Environment – Protect and preserve our natural surroundings
  • Health – Support health services and community wellbeing initiatives
  • Migrant Services – Help welcome and support new members of our community
  • Seniors & Aged Care – Connect with and support older members of the community
  • Sport & Recreation – Get involved in local clubs, events, and activities
  • Young People – Support and mentor children and young people
  • Event Volunteering – Get involved in one off events.
  • Corporate – Giveback by giving time through your work place

Whether you’re looking to give back, build skills, or meet new people, there’s a role to suit everyone.

General FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our organisation, programs, and volunteering.

  • Be rewarded by knowing you are helping the local community and making a difference
  • Gain a better understanding of the various groups and organisations in our community
  • Learn new skills or further develop your current knowledge and experience
  • Use volunteer experience as a stepping stone to employment
  • Build your confidence and self-esteem
  • Expand your social networks by meeting other people

Book an appointment with us, we take appointments on Tuesday – Friday between 10am and 4pm, we can offer them online or in-person, at our Office in Geelong West. Email us: info@volunteeringgeelong.org.au or phone us 03 5221 1377. During this appointment we will discuss how your skills, experience and passion can help others. We will complete a simple questionnaire and ask you a few simple questions in order to find the best role match for you.

Volunteering opportunities across the Geelong region are incredibly diverse, with roles available to suit a wide range of interests, skills, and availability. You might find yourself supporting community events, assisting local not-for-profits, helping in retail or admin roles, working outdoors, or providing support to vulnerable members of the community.

Whether you’re looking for something hands-on, social, skill-based, or flexible, there are opportunities to match what you enjoy and what you want to contribute. The key is finding a role that aligns with your interests, values, and goals.

Yes — most organisations provide the support you need to feel confident in your role.

This typically includes an introduction or onboarding process, guidance from a dedicated contact person or Volunteer Manager, and any relevant training required for the role. You’ll also be given clear information about your responsibilities, expectations, and who to go to for help. At Volunteering Geelong, we’re also working towards building a comprehensive hub of resources, guides, and training to further support both volunteers and volunteer managers across our community.

Absolutely.

Many volunteer roles are designed for people with no prior experience. What matters most is your willingness to get involved, learn, and contribute to your community. Volunteering is a great way to build confidence, develop new skills, and gain valuable experience — whether you’re just starting out, changing careers, or looking to give back. Some roles may require checks (like a Police Check or Working With Children Check), but these are part of the standard onboarding process and help ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.

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