FAQs

Will I be paid?

No, volunteer work is unpaid. Volunteers provide their services of their own free will without any expectation of financial return.

Is there a chance I could transition into paid work in the organisation if I volunteer first?

We advertise all employment vacancies on our website, outlining the application process as part of the advertising campaign. As an equal opportunity employer, all are welcome to apply. Please visit our recruitment website to view current opportunities.

Will I need to be interviewed?

The volunteer recruitment process may include both a phone interview and a face-to-face interview with the volunteer supervisor. This provides us with the opportunity to ensure that we have the best match for you and to those we are committed to supporting.

Do I have to obtain a Working with Children Check?

Yes. As a Child Safe Organisation, the Shire requires all volunteers to have a valid Working with Children Check. These are available without charge when applying for a Volunteer Check. Volunteers will be required to provide a passport photo when submitting at a participating Australia Post. Please visit Working with Children Check for further information. If you have a current Victorian Institute of Teaching card, this can be accepted in place of a valid Working with Children Check.

Do I have to complete a police check?

Yes. All volunteers will be required to undergo a police check as part of the registration process. There is no cost to volunteers for this.

Will I receive any training?

Some positions require volunteers to attend formal training prior to commencing in the role, while other roles may provide on-the-job training. Training is generally provided by Shire staff.

How will I be supported whilst volunteering with the Shire?

Each volunteer has a Shire staff member as an ongoing contact for advice, support and training in their role.

Are there any age restrictions?

Restrictions may apply depending on the type of volunteer engagement and will be specified at the time of advertisement.

How many hours will I be expected to volunteer for?

This may vary depending on the volunteer engagement, whether it is a one-time event or an ongoing opportunity. This will be communicated at the time of advertisement, and we give our volunteers the opportunity to let us know their availability.

What length and type of commitment is expected of volunteers?

The length and type of commitment expected from volunteers varies from role to role. Volunteer position descriptions found on the volunteering vacancies page will detail the length and type of commitment being sought. When looking for a volunteer role it is important to find a role where the commitment being sought suits your availability.

Do I have to be available during the week or on weekends?

We recognise that many of our volunteers have other commitments and may only be available at certain times during the week. Our volunteer rosters are flexible, depending on the type of engagement. You may be required to work weekdays, weeknights, or on weekends subject to your availability and the engagement.

Do you accept student placements or work experience?

Thank you for your interest! Mornington Peninsula Shire acknowledges that student and work experience placements provide an opportunity for individuals within our community an insight into local council. Please note that these opportunities are not considered as part of our volunteer engagement process, please click here for more information about placements.