Volunteer opportunities at Darebin
In July 2022, we launched our very first Volunteer Management Action Plan 2022—26. This is the framework which guides us to support, manage and promote a safe, fair and consistent volunteering experience, in accordance with the National Standards for Volunteer Involvement, for volunteers who volunteer directly at Council.
Across a four year period, some of the key actions include:
- streamlining volunteer engagement and management practices
- increasing the visibility, recognition and overall support of volunteers
- providing direction and support to staff facilitating volunteer engagement
- exploring how we may strengthen existing partnerships and engage new stakeholders
Volunteer with us:
Community Grants Program
Community grants can assist not-for-profit groups and organisations to address the needs and issues within their community and support Darebin residents to address discrimination and/or exclusion. Each year, community groups request support to apply for grants. Often these groups are from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and/or older adults who do not have experience or skills to complete an online application.
We're looking for tech savvy volunteers to support the Corporate and Community Grants Officer in providing assistance to community members to apply and acquit grants. Training is provided to volunteers in the use of the Smarty Grants online program. There are seven grant writing sessions scheduled across February - May 2024 (more details to come).
For more information see our Community Grants Program information.
Darebin Toy Library
The Darebin Toy Library is a small community service, based in Northcote and offers a sustainable, accessible toy library for families with young children aged from 3 months to six years of age. Volunteers will support the Toy Library Officer by checking toys for safety, completing small repairs, auditing and updating the catalogue collection and welcoming members.
Bundoora Park Farm
Bundoora Park Farm offers a range of volunteering opportunities. Assist the farm staff in the daily operation of the urban farm with the preparation of food, enclosures and pens, or assist with weeding, planting and general maintenance.
The 2023 volunteer intake has closed. Applications to volunteer with the farm will re-open in 2024.
For more information see our Bundoora Park Farm page.
Darebin Gardens for Wildlife
Are you passionate about urban nature? Do you want to help provide safe and healthy habitat for Darebin local plants and animals? Do you enjoy sharing your time and knowledge with the community?
Gardens for Wildlife is a partnership between us, the Darebin Nature Trust and community members to increase appreciation for biodiversity and creating habitat gardens for local wildlife. As a volunteer garden guide, you are trained to assess and provide feedback on creating habitat in different spaces.
Watch a recording of our volunteer information session to learn more about the Darebin Gardens for Wildlife program and whether becoming a Garden Guide volunteer is the right opportunity for you.
Applications are currently closed.
For more information see our Gardens for Wildlife page.
FUSE Darebin Events Program
FUSE is Darebin's contemporary, multi-arts festival. Every Autumn and Spring, FUSE provides a platform for local artists and performers to transform our amazing city into a dynamic hub of creativity. The FUSE team are looking to engage friendly, enthusiastic, diverse volunteers in their events. Volunteers are integral to these events, providing support, information and the visible face of the community.
Applications are currently closed but stay tuned for the next FUSE event.
For more information see the FUSE Darebin website.
Supported Playgroups Program
The Supported Playgroups Program aims to build the parenting capacities in families with children aged 0—4 years. Darebin is funded to deliver ten supported playgroups across Preston, Reservoir, Bundoora and Thornbury. Volunteers will support Facilitators by welcoming families to the sessions, encouraging and assisting families to explore play experiences and assisting with set up and pack of activities and equipment.
Applications are currently closed and will open in 2024.
Community Advisory Committees
Community Advisory Committees facilitate community participation and input into policy and service development, projects and events. We have established a number of Community Advisory Committees, and they are typically made up of Councillors, Council Officers and community representatives. The community representatives may be local residents appointed in their own right, or representatives of service authorities, support agencies or community organisations.
For more information and to get involved see our Community Advisory Committees page.
Parks and Open Space
We are passionate about connecting our community to nature and creating meaningful opportunities to support positive climate action together. To search for volunteering opportunities that support tree planting and rewilding and litter collection events, see our volunteering in parks and open space in Darebin page.
Frequently asked questions
Will there be someone supporting me during my volunteering with Darebin?
Yes. All of our volunteer programs are led by a volunteer supervisor or team leader who will provide your training, day-to-day support and overall guidance throughout your engagement with us.
Do I need a Working with Children Check (WWCC) to volunteer with Darebin?
Yes. We require all of our volunteers aged 18 years and over to hold a valid WWCC whilst volunteering with us.
The WWCC is free for volunteers. To find out how to apply for a WWCC see the Working with Children Check Victoria website.
Do I need a Police Check to volunteer?
Not all of our volunteer roles require a Police Check. Where a Police Check is required, it will be stated in the volunteer role description.
There is no cost to you, and we will provide guidance on how to apply for a Police Check. Any findings are treated with respect and strict confidentiality.
Will I be paid?
No. Voluntary work is unpaid.
Am I guaranteed a volunteer role if I apply?
Placing a volunteer is based on available opportunities, as well as matching your interests and skills against the requirements of the volunteer role.
Will I gain employment with Darebin City Council if I volunteer first?
We support volunteering as a pathway to employment, however we cannot guarantee employment with us upon the completion of your volunteer engagement. All paid positions are advertised on the Darebin City Council website where you can apply for them.
Can I get a reference?
Your volunteer supervisor or team leader can provide you with a reference which details your role, activities and hours completed as a volunteer.
Work experience and tertiary student placement
For information on how to apply for high school work experience or a tertiary student placement please read our student placement information.
More information
Volunteer Programs Officer
Phone: 03 8470 8888
Email: volunteering@darebin.vic.gov.au