"Being able to share my skills in business management and provide coaching provides me with the greatest level of satisfaction"
"Building local tourism is helping people to improve their livelihoods and strengthen their communities"
"The YES Grow Program was an amazing experience — both an opportunity to experience a part of the world I wouldn't otherwise have had the chance to visit, and to work with such a diverse group of entrepreneurs"
What is the time commitment?
There are many opportunities for volunteers to get involved in our programs throughout the year. Each assignment looks different depending on the program and needs of the community partners, though generally most assignments are part time.
Some assignments will be for a short period of time, for example, four weeks and be completed in an online capacity only. Other assignments will be longer, for example up to six months and involve a hybrid approach of online and in person delivery.
What expenses are covered?
ABV covers expenses related to volunteer assignments and travel. The details will be discussed in relation to the specific assignment. Some of the things we cover include: Working with Children check, Police check, medical screening and immunisations, transport to assignment location including personal car use when required, airport transfers, flights, accommodation, visa costs, travel insurance, reasonable communication costs while travelling, daily per diem while traveling to cover the cost of food and incidentals.
How are volunteers selected?
ABV screens all interested candidates for compliance, cultural fit and community capability to become a Registered ABV Volunteer. Once registered, Volunteers may apply for assignments that are of interest. Every assignment has a specific Terms of Reference outlining skills and characteristics required against which volunteer applications are considered. While the specifics vary by assignment, volunteers are likely to be selected on:
What pre-checks do I need?
ABV is committed to the safeguarding of our community partners and volunteers and as such there are a number of compliance requirements.
All volunteers must be an Australian Citizen or Australian Permanent Resident, and they must be residing in Australia. Prior to commencing an assignment Volunteers must obtain a Police check, a Working with Children Check and a medical clearance for international travel.
What types of assignments are available?
ABV programs have a strong focus on economic development and institutional strengthening. The specific skillsets required can vary, however we regularly require experience across areas such as:
Do I need previous volunteering experience?
There is no requirement to have volunteering experience. We are primarily looking for people who can apply their professional skills and experience.
Volunteering experience may be helpful but not essential. More importantly, we seek volunteers who are humble, curious, culturally aware and aligned with ABV's capacity-building approach. The most successful volunteers are those who listen, collaborate, share knowledge respectfully, and work alongside communities rather than simply providing solutions.
Can I volunteer while working?
Yes. There are part-time remote assignments available which allow the flexibility to volunteer alongside full-time employment.
What support will I receive?
You will be supported throughout your volunteer journey with ABV. Before your assignment begins, you will participate in onboarding and expectation-setting conversations to ensure everyone is aligned on the objectives, scope and ways of working. Throughout the assignment, you will have a dedicated ABV team member as your point of contact, providing guidance, support and assistance whenever needed. This helps set you up for a positive experience and enables you to make the greatest possible impact for the organisation you're supporting.
What difference will my contribution make?
ABV assignments are designed to transfer knowledge, strengthen organisational capability and support long-term community outcomes. Volunteers help organisations build the skills and systems they need to succeed beyond the assignment itself. Your contribution will be of great value to the community and personally rewarding too!
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