Support for volunteers

Many groups support different areas of volunteering. They can help with questions about background checks, training, funding, or volunteer rights.

Support is available for:

• existing volunteers
• people who are thinking of becoming volunteers
• people who work with volunteers.

Health and safety

Volunteering should be a positive and fulfilling experience. Make sure to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing when you volunteer. It’s okay to take breaks, say no, or step back when you need to.

WorkSafe Victoria is responsible for keeping Victoria’s workers, workplaces and volunteers safe. They also manage workers’ compensation in Victoria.

General support

Volunteering Victoria is the peak body for volunteering in the state. They focus on speaking up for volunteers, helping the sector grow, and promoting volunteering in Victoria. They also have a guide to help you understand what to expect when you volunteer.

Rights and responsibilities

Volunteers have an important role in community groups. Before you begin, there are some things you should know, including your rights and responsibilities. You can read more in the Volunteering Victoria Rights and Responsibilities Guide.

The Working with Children Check helps keep children safe from harm by checking the background of people who work and care for them.

Many organisations ask volunteers to get a police check or background check before they start. These checks help make sure you are suitable for the certain job. Police checks are especially important for those working with vulnerable group such as older adults, children, or people with disabilities.

Learn more about National police checks and fingerprinting.