Volunteer

Volunteers program

Volunteers can play a significant role in welcoming and helping refugees with their settlement in this country. They extend the role of MDA staff by providing companionship, assistance and support.

The aim of the program is to offer a warm welcome to refugees and help them settle into their homes and community. Volunteers are placed with a family and then visit on a regular basis, perhaps once per week, for a period of around six months.

Other activities for volunteers include events, project work, and community development activities, under the supervision and support of staff.

All activities are negotiated between the client, volunteer, Case Manager and the Volunteer Service Program. Volunteers are supervised and supported throughout their involvement with clients.

What volunteering is:

  • Interesting opportunities and experiences for people keen to assist in the refugee and multicultural sector.
  • Flexible hours, supervision, support, information through regular meetings and contact via the phone and email.

What volunteering is not:

  • We are not able to offer work experience or administration skill training for those wanting to enter or re-enter the workforce, or for those wishing to obtain Australian workplace skills and development.
  • We do not offer any volunteer opportunities for human resources, IT, accounting or for those wanting to offer counselling services to our clients.

How to become a volunteer

Prospective volunteers are required to:

  • Participate in a one-day training program which runs from 10am until 4pm. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss the next available training session. Topics include:
    • Practical aspects of volunteering.
    • Cultural awareness
    • Legal and organisational responsibilities for volunteers.
  • Apply for a ‘working with children check’ (Blue Card) through MDA.
  • Provide the names and contact details of two referees.
  • Be able to donate a few hours per week or fortnight for a minimum of six months.

Volunteer activity is available according to:

  • Demand for volunteer assistance.
  • Needs and requirements of clients.
  • Experience, skills, geographic location and availability of volunteers.

For further information please contact the Volunteer Coordinator on:

To become a volunteer download the Volunteer Application Form or please submit an online Volunteer Application form.

Please email or fax your volunteer application to contact details above or post to the address below:

  • Brisbane Multicultural Centre
  • Multicultural Development Association
  • 28 Dibley Street, Woolloongabba QLD 4102

To access MDA’s current volunteer opportunities, please visit the Get Involved page.

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