Frequently Asked Questions

Who can volunteer at RSL LifeCare?

Anyone above 14 years of age can volunteer at RSL LifeCare. We welcome people from all walks of life. Whether you’re a professional, retiree, young person or someone looking to give back to the community, there’s a place for you.  

Is there a minimum age to volunteer?

While we welcome young people as young as 14 years of age to volunteer at RSL LifeCare, there may be some restrictions on where and when you can volunteer. We strongly believe in providing young people with the best volunteer experience and the appropriate support and this means we can only accept under 18’s as volunteers if we have appropriate staff to provide supervision. 

Do I need specific skill to volunteer at RSL LifeCare?

For most roles, you do not need specific skills, just the positive attitude and willingness to help. If specific skills are needed, they will be listed in the role description.  

What volunteer opportunities are available through RSL LifeCare?

You can volunteer in different RSL LifeCare services. We offer variety of roles, such as: 

• Veteran Services – Event volunteering at Veteran & Family Hubs, assisting our Claims Advisors or assisting at our Spur Horse Ranch 

• Retirement  Living – assisting with social activities, driving residents to social outings, volunteering in the War Museum or Op Shop in Narrabeen 

• Residential Aged Care – social visits, activities, driving, library, events 

• Events and Fundraising – supporting our Commemorative events such as Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, Poppy Ball, Anzac Appeal 

• Support Services – assisting with administrative tasks, marketing, writing, etc.

How do I sign up to volunteer?

You can sign up by completing the online registration form. Someone from our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

Online Registration Form

Can I volunteer at RSL LifeCare to complete my student placement?

Unfortunately, our volunteer program is not designed to meet formal student placement or internship requirements. While we welcome students as volunteers, we are unable to provide the structured supervision, assessments, or documentation typically required for accredited placements. 

What is the time commitment?

It depends on the role. Some opportunities are short-term or event-based, while others may require a regular weekly or monthly commitment. Social visitor role, for example requires regular and consistent commitment because volunteers build meaningful relationship wit our residents. Other roles, such as activities or events could be one-off or less frequently. We will work with you to find the role that suits your availability and match our requirements.  

Do you offer volunteer opportunities as part of Centrelink mutual obligations?

Yes, we may be able to offer you the volunteer role that is eligible to count toward your Centrelink mutual obligation requirements.  

Do I need a background check to volunteer in aged care?

All roles require background checks and the type of the check depends on what you do and where you volunteer. We will let you know during the application process what background check is required and we will guide you through the process. You may also check the role description for the volunteer position you are interested in for more information.   

Do I need to be vaccinated to volunteer in residential aged care?

No however the guidance from Department of Health, Disability and Ageing may change at any time. We will let you know if we require any vaccinations. However, our residential aged care facilities may require you to complete RAT tests prior to entering the sites and wear face masks while indoors.  

Can I take a break from volunteering?

Absolutely, we all need a break sometimes. We understand that life changes and sometimes you may need to take a break from volunteering. Just let us know so we can reassign your responsibilities to another volunteer and let our residents, clients know. You are always welcome back when the time is right.  

Can I volunteer remotely?

Yes, some roles may be done remotely. Please check the role descriptions for more information.  

Who do I contact for more information?

Please reach out to our volunteering team at [email protected]