Volunteers
The contribution of our volunteers is highly valued and appreciated by the City of Perth. Our volunteers support residents, visitors and businesses in the City through a variety of roles and activities. We engage our volunteers because of the passion, enthusiasm, skills and experience they bring to the City. Our volunteers are essential parts of our community service programs.
The City of Perth volunteer program offers volunteers the opportunity to get to know the city and people who use its services in a unique way. Our activities promote a sense of belonging and contribution for volunteers who wish to give their time, skills and enthusiasm. You will be rewarded by feeling part of a team, helping others, meeting new people and having fun along the way. You can also gain new skills, share your existing knowledge and undertake training and development.
Frequently asked questions
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Why should I volunteer with the City of Perth?
When you join our team of volunteers you can expect to make new friends, learn new skills and support the important work we do in the community. Studies have shown that volunteering is good for your health, wellbeing and social skills.
You can expect to feel the positive impacts for yourself and others. The City of Perth has been offering volunteer opportunities for over 20 years. Many of our volunteers have been with the program since its inception because the roles are both worthwhile and enjoyable.
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Why does the City of Perth engage volunteers?We engage volunteers because of the passion, enthusiasm, skills and experience they bring to the City. Our volunteers support the delivery of the City’s programs to add value to the City of Perth community. Our volunteers are essential parts of our community service programs.
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What do City of Perth volunteers do?At present, City of Perth volunteers give their time to the iCity Visitor Service (located in the Murray Street Mall) and the Citiplace Community Centre (located at the City Train Station). Both of these roles involve interaction with the public, helping people and promoting the City of Perth. We have over 160 volunteers undertaking various roles from providing information to tourists and visitors to cooking and serving meals for people.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on (08) 9461 3333 or via info@cityofperth.wa.gov.au -
Is there an age limit on volunteering?
Usually age is not a barrier to volunteering at the City of Perth, however some roles may be more physically or mentally demanding and may require consideration. Our insurance covers people up to all ages, although those over 80 years may require additional consideration.
Volunteers are required to be over the age of 18 years.
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Are volunteers covered by workers compensation legislation?
No, but the City of Perth does have Volunteer Personal Accident Insurance and other insurances to cover accidents and incidents while you are volunteering.
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How much time do I need to volunteer for?Most volunteer shifts are between two and four hours during weekdays. However, as the iCity Information Kiosk is open seven days a week, opportunities exist on weekends. City of Perth volunteers are asked to commit to a minimum of twelve months service and agree to a three-month probation period upon commencement. As many of the services are ongoing, to assist you to stay up to date with information, we ask you to do at least one shift a fortnight. This enables us to get to know you better and you can decide if the role is right for you.
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I don’t have a computer. Can I still apply?
Most City of Perth processes now require people to have access to a computer to apply for roles, complete training modules and communicate actively. While this is our preferred means of engagement and promotion, our volunteering supervisor can be contacted.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on (08) 9461 3333 or via info@cityofperth.wa.gov.au
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Can I be paid to cover my expenses?Yes, the City of Perth will cover certain out-of-pocket expenses. As each program is different, this will be discussed at your interview and induction.
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I’m retired now, how much time will I be able to give?Many of our volunteers work one shift a week. Working more than this will depend on the vacancies available. The volunteer supervisor can help with more information.
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Can I be unsuccessful in obtaining a volunteering role?Yes. The City of Perth has the right to take only the most suitable person for the volunteer role. If you are unsuccessful you will be told why and options will be discussed.
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Can I leave if I don’t like it?
Yes, of course. We would hate to see you go, but understand that for some reasons the role is not right for you. If you are deciding to leave we suggest you speak to your supervisor about the reasons and if there is something we can do to help.
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Do you check on my criminal record?
All City of Perth volunteers will undergo a Volunteer National Police Certificate clearance. You can find out more information about this check by visiting the National Volunteer Police Clearance website. The City will pay for the cost of this check.
If your role requires you to work with children you will be required to undergo a Working with Children Check. You can find out more information about this check by visiting the Working with Children Check website. The City will reimburse you for the cost of this check.
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I am in Australia on a visa. Can I do volunteer work?
Any volunteers who do not have permanent residency in Australia need to ensure they are keeping within the law and abiding by their visa restrictions. It is important that you make sure that you can legally undertake volunteer work on your visa.
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Will I be interviewed after my application?
As part of our recruitment process, all volunteers are interviewed and will be asked to provide the names of two referees. This ensures that we get to know each other and ask questions such as:
- Why you are interested in volunteering?
- What sort of voluntary work you are interested in?
- What your particular skills are?
- What new skills would you like to learn through your voluntary work?
- How much time you should offer?
During the interview, you can ask anything you are unsure about such as:
- Payment of expenses.
- Training/qualification opportunities.
- What variety will there be in the work?
- Support/supervision (someone to talk to regularly).
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Will I get training?
All new volunteers at the City of Perth are required to undertake an induction program very similar to that of paid employees. Most of this training takes place at Council House, St Georges Terrace Perth. Some modules are available online. Training specific to roles is necessary for your success and will be discussed at your interview.
Downloads
- Volunteer Handbook9.06 MB | PDF Document
