There’s so much good happening right outside your door—and you can be part of it!
While council programs do a lot, there are plenty of local groups and neighbours doing amazing things that could use a helping hand.
Whether it’s joining a clean-up day, helping out at a community event, or just checking in on someone nearby, every bit counts. Volunteering doesn’t have to be formal—just friendly.
Check out new opportunities to volunteer at Volunteering Tasmania (external link).
What can a volunteer do?
The following list is just a summary of the types of roles that volunteers can do or provide assistance with:
- activity support – art/craft etc.
- animal carer
- child carer
- classroom helper or excursion assistant at a school
- committee member – Secretary, Treasurer etc.
- computer support
- driver
- Emergency Services – Volunteer Fire Brigade, SES etc.
- food preparation
- fundraiser
- gardener
- lawn mower
- mentor to young people
- office worker
- retail assistant
- shopping helper
- visitor/befriender
- volunteer coordinator
As a volunteer you have particular rights and responsibilities that you should understand before you begin volunteering.
Rights
As a volunteer you have the right to:
- be able to say no if you aren’t comfortable with, or haven’t agreed to something
- be supported in your activities
- have a clear understanding of your role e.g. be provided a job description
- be given the appropriate guidance/training etc. if necessary to carry out your job
- be consulted on things that affect you and your work
- have a safe working environment (including being covered by insurance)
- be given access to organisation policies and procedures
Responsibilities
As a volunteer you have a responsibility to:
- be reliable and on time
- carry out any tasks you have agreed to
- be trustworthy, respectful, and non-judgmental
- maintain confidentiality
- ask for support and/or training as necessary
Police checks
Most organisations require volunteers to undergo a Police Check to ensure the suitability of volunteers for the role they are wanting to undertake. This is not a difficult process and many organisations can support volunteers to undertake this. It is important to note that it can take around 4 weeks to get the results of this check.
See the Tasmania Police website (external link) for more information.
Community and Volunteer Awards
If you’re looking for information about the Glenorchy Volunteer Awards please click below to go to the page.