About this resource
Volunteering is an excellent way to connect with the community and grow your: professional network, all while gaining valuable skills, knowledge and experience.
This fact sheet contains some helpful tips on how to find volunteering opportunities as: an international student in Australia.
What is volunteering?
Volunteering involves donating your time to help an organisation that supports people in need, or a cause you care about. While you do not receive payment for your services, some organisations cover costs such as transport.
As an international student, volunteering can be a fulfilling and rewarding activity. It can greatly improve your life and help prepare you for work opportunities after you graduate.
Why volunteer?
There are a range of benefits to volunteering:
Professional development
Build valuable skills for everyday life, study and work. While the exact skills may differ from role to role, you may gain experience that can lead to future job opportunities.
Improve your english skills
Talking frequently to people can help you improve your English and verbal communication skills. The experience can help you become more familiar with local accents and phrases.
Meet new people and make new friends
Joining a community can be a great way to meet new people who share the same interests and values. It can also help broaden
your professional network and build lasting connections.
Experience Australian culture
Immerse yourself in local Australian organisations and causes. You will be able to see how different organisations operate and gain a deeper understanding of Australian culture.
Helping other in need
Research from the National Strategy for Volunteering 2023-2033 shows that there is a direct link between volunteering and improved mental health. Giving back to the community is emotionally and psychologically fulfilling and an amazing way to give back to the community.
How to start your volunteering journey
Anyone willing to learn and contribute their time can apply to volunteer. You don’t need to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and as an international student, you automatically have the right to volunteer as part of your student visa.
There are many different volunteering opportunities in Australia and they cover several industries and skills.
You can volunteer in:
- Advocacy organisations
- Education
- Arts
- Health and wellbeing
- Environmental conservation
- Sports
- And many more.
Some practical tips
Keep an open mind
Be ready and open to try new things and experiences as they can lead to incredible opportunities. Be active in your search for volunteering opportunities.
Have a short resume handy
Most organisations that accept volunteers will need you to apply first. It is helpful to have a brief resume or CV ready to submit.
Checks
Some organisations may screen volunteers to ensure your character and skills match the position. You might be asked to obtain a Working with Children Check (WWCC) and/or a police check.
Ask your university
Universities and educational institutions are a great resource for volunteering opportunities. Be sure to check your university or course website to see what options are available.
Visit volunteering.gov.au
Many volunteering opportunities,: across various sectors, can be found: on volunteering.gov.au. Find out what: is available in your area and what: opportunities may be available to you.
Where can you volunteer?
Australia has a large number of volunteering organisations across many different: industries, causes and areas of interest.
You can find available opportunities specific to your location, area of interest: and time commitment at volunteering.gov.au.