Resource Centre

Volunteer Resources

Recruiting and retaining volunteers is an ongoing challenge among community groups, organisations and not-for-profit organisations.  

As the need for volunteers increases, so does the need to focus on volunteer management, training and planning.  Volunteering Redlands acknowledges this as one of the most important objectives in building the sector through the support and recognition of people involved in volunteer programs. 

Volunteering Queensland offers a range of training and development opportunities and other resources which may be useful to your organisation, your staff and volunteers.

Check out resources from Pro Bono, Community Door and The Change Agency for more resources. And, importantly, to understand legal obligations check out Justice Connect.

Useful Links

2023 National Strategy for Volunteering

National Standards For Volunteers

Volunteering Queensland

Volunteering Australia

Volunteering Qld Governance Tool

Apply to be approved voluntary work organisation with Services Australia

Resource Guide Successfully Engaging Volunteers with Disability

Facts & FAQ 

Does Volunteering Redlands have a pool of volunteers to send to organisations?
No.  Volunteering Redlands promotes volunteers roles on behalf of Volunteering Redlands' member organisations. VR then refers potential volunteers to  member organisations when they express interest in a role held by the member organisation.  To list positions on Volunteering Redlands website, your organisation needs to become a member with us. For information, contact us or see Become a Member.

Are Police Clearances, Working with Children and NDIS Workers' Screening Checks compulsory?

Many organisations require police clearances and/or other checks, depending on the role the volunteer is being asked to do.  The organisation should indicate in the position description whether any checks are required, and whether the organisation supports volunteers to obtain checks.

What details should a volunteer handbook contain?
Volunteer handbooks should contain any relevant information about the organisation, as well as volunteer policies and procedures, orientation information, Occupational Health and Safety measures and a history of the organisation.

Is there a standard for ‘out of pocket’ expense reimbursement?
The National Standards for Volunteering indicate that a volunteer has the right to be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses incurred on behalf of the organisation for which you are volunteering.

Can an organisation refuse a volunteer that is not suitable?
Yes.  Volunteering Redlands recommends creating detailed, specific position descriptions, so that potential volunteers are clear on the expectations of a position.  If a person is not suitable, perhaps there is another position within the organisation that would be perfect.  If not, the organisation can refer them back to Volunteering Redlands to explore other options.

What is the recommended method of ‘retiring’ volunteers?
As they age, sometimes volunteers become less able to fulfil their duties in an organisation.  It is best not to ignore this fact.  Speak frankly but politely to the volunteer and suggest a change of duties if appropriate.
A procedure for retiring volunteers should be included in your organisation’s Volunteer Policies and Procedures.

Does an organisation have the right to discipline volunteers?

Yes.  However, an organisation should always have a thorough set of volunteer policies and procedures to ensure that each situation is dealt with appropriately. Volunteer-involving organisations should always include grievance policies for volunteers and organisations, and have appropriate system to deal with issues.
Volunteers should also be made aware of that which is considered inappropriate behaviour within the organisation.

Does an organisation have to be incorporated to involve volunteers?
No

How long do volunteer personal records have to be kept?
Volunteer personal records, like other staff records, have to be kept for seven years. They can then be archived.

How should volunteer personnel records be stored?
Volunteer personnel records and staff records are confidential and need to be kept secure at all times, both off and online. 

Do volunteers have to be trained?
Definitely. Training helps volunteers to be more confident and able to perform their duties, and also makes them feel an important part of the organisation.  In volunteer interviews/reviews, it is a good idea to ask volunteers if there is any further training they require and attempt to provide it.

What is the difference between Public Liability and Volunteer Personal Accident?
Public Liability insurance protects your agency up to a stated amount if a third party sues your organisation for personal injury (including death), or damage to property as a result of an occurrence in connection with your organisation.
Volunteer Personal Accident Insurance is like 'worker’s compensation' for volunteers.  It can provide cover for people who become sick or injured while volunteering but not all agencies can afford it.