Apply to be a VIDA Volunteer

VIDA is guided by AusAID priorities in sourcing volunteer assignments. Below are some examples of the kinds of assignment roles sourced in different sectors.

 

Education
• Curriculum development
• Research (science)

 

Environment
• Environmental management
• Environmental engineering
• Environment related project work

 

Gender

• Gender/social research
• Education

 

Governance
• Accountancy
• Business management
• Law/legal and regulatory framework
• Public Administration
• Small business development
• Communications (including media, journalism, library/information management, marketing, tourism)
• Community Development (including youth development work, social work, arts/community theatre)
• Project Management (project officers/assistants, with NGOs)

 

Health

• Nursing
• Occupational Therapy
• Community Health Work
• Health related project work

 

Infrastructure
• Engineering (civil/mechanical)
• Information technology
• Urban planning
• Architecture

 

Rural Development
• Agriculture
• Marine Science
• Veterinary Science
• Natural Resource Management
• Forestry

 

Trades
• Mechanics
• Carpentry
• Building

Successful volunteers will meet the following criteria:

• Necessary technical qualifications and skills to fulfil the objectives of the assignment

• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to the needs of others

• An understanding of the challenges of working in a diverse cross-cultural environment

• Demonstrated ability to work cross-culturally

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Adaptability and flexibility to deal with challenging situations that arise

• A strong commitment to and understanding of capacity building and sustainable development

• A willingness to exchange knowledge and develop/conduct activities to build capacity of individuals and organisations

• A demonstrated commitment to Childwise practices

To apply:
 

Step 1 - Search the current volunteer opportunities advertised and download the suitable description.
 

Step 2 - Download and complete the Assignment Application Form and the Australian Federal Police Criminal History Check Form. Click here.

 

Step 3 - Submit your application including a current CV, completed forms and a copy of your passport (front page with photo) or Permanent residency visa. Applications to be submitted via email to apply@vidavolunteers.com.au

VIDA advertises assignments twice a year in May/June and November/December on the VIDA website

VIDA has a staged selection process. The selection process is based on merit and VIDA works within the parameters of the Australian Equal Opportunities Act. At any stage of the selection process VIDA reserves the right to withdraw the volunteer assignment.

 

Stage 1:   Applicant shortlist
Stage 2:   Referee check
Stage 3:   Telephone Interview
Stage 4:   APO/HO Approval
Stage 5:   Pre-Departure Training Requirements

Stage 6:   Criminal History Check
Stage 7:   Medical
Stage 8:   Visa

 

Once the first 4 stages have been completed VIDA will send out a first round of offers (a ‘Yes Pack’). If the Ranked 1 Candidate turns down an offered assignment, that assignment may then be offered to the Ranked 2 Candidate in a second round of offers.

 

Stages 5-8 must be completed prior to mobilisation.

 

Not all applicants will be interviewed by VIDA. In some cases the Host Organisation or Australian Partner Organisation may also request to interview the candidates before final approval is given.

Pre-Departure Training (PDT) includes briefings on insurance, medical information, security and emergency, media and community engagement and cross cultural training.

 

Pre-Departure Training is a part of the VIDA staged selection process and all volunteers must successfully complete PDT requirements prior to being mobilised. If you are successful in your application you will be expected to attend our next PDT workshop (PDT dates are listed on the 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.

 

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