About VIDA

VIDA (Volunteering for International Development from Australia) places skilled Australian volunteers in developing countries in the Asia Pacific region. VIDA volunteers work with local counterparts and Host Organisations (HOs) to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development in the communities in which they work through skills exchange, institutional strengthening and capacity building.

VIDA is funded by the Australian Government’s overseas aid agency, AusAID, as part of the Australian Volunteer Program. The program also includes Australian Business Volunteers and Australian Volunteers International.

 

VIDA is managed by Austraining International in collaboration with CARE Australia and CECI/WUSC (Canadian international volunteer agencies).

Australian citizens and permanent residents aged 18+ are eligible to apply. There is no upper age limit.

A range of opportunities are available across sectors that include Education, Environment, Gender, Governance, Health, Infrastructure, Rural Development and Trades.

 

To see currently available opportunities click here.

VIDA currently sends volunteers to the following countries in the Asia Pacific region:

• Bangladesh
• Cambodia
• East Timor
• Fiji
• Indonesia
• Laos
• Philippines
• PNG
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Thailand
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu
• Vietnam

Opportunitiess can be from 1 month to 3 years in length.

Short term opportunities are 1-12 months in length.
Long term opportunities are 12-36 months in length.

VIDA places 80% of volunteers in long term opportunities and 20% in short term opportunities.

Because short term opportunities are very limited, they will not be openly advertised but can be arranged in conjunction with a Host Organisation, with yourself as the nominated candidate.

Assignment length depends on the needs of the Host Organisation and is outlined in the opportunity description when a volunteer opportunity is advertised on the VIDA website.

VIDA has two major mobilisations each year; one in March/April and one in September/October. Mobilisations are the periods of time when VIDA Volunteers depart Australia to go on assignment.

Alternatively, assignment starting dates can be negotiated between the VIDA Program, the volunteer and the Host Organisation. VIDA prides itself on being flexible in responding to the needs of both volunteers and Host Organisations.

VIDA Volunteers are responsible for obtaining and maintaining an appropriate visa for the duration of their assignment (including fees) and paying for any excess baggage fees.

All other costs, including airfares, accommodation and living allowances, are covered by the VIDA Program.