Friends of Group Member
Join a Friends Group in Nillumbik!
Most groups meet monthly and undertake planting, weeding and environmental projects.
Click the link below to fill in an application form, make sure you select the group you volunteer with or email our team for help choosing a group that suits you!
environment@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
Friends Group Volunteer Role Description
PURPOSE
Nillumbik Shire Council manages reserves that support important indigenous plant and animal species. Environmental volunteers support Environmental Works Officers and Friends Groups to carry out practical on‑ground works that protect and enhance these values.
LOCATION
Nillumbik Shire Council bushland reserves – various locations across the Shire.
REPORTS TO
Nillumbik Shire Council Environmental Works Officers.
TIME COMMITMENT
Working bees are typically two hours per month, with occasional additional time for events if volunteers are available.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Join in environmental activities such as weeding, planting and mulching, as guided by the Friends Group Convenor and Council staff.
- Follow the safety briefing, use tools and protective gear as shown, and let the Convenor know about any incidents or hazards.
- Sign in when you arrive so we can keep everyone safe and in touch if needed.
- Care for the reserve by staying in designated work areas and following guidance about local plants and animals.
- Contribute to a friendly, welcoming and respectful atmosphere for all volunteers and community members.
SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
Essential
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work both autonomously and as part of a team.
- Ability to perform physical tasks in outdoor environments.
- Ability to follow instructions and work safely
Desirable
- Interest in environmental works or bushland management.
- Willingness to learn about local flora and fauna.
SUPPORT AND TRAINING
Training and orientation are provided by the Volunteer Coordinator and Environmental Works team. This may include:
- Induction to the environmental volunteer role.
- Site‑specific guidance for individual reserves.
- Instruction in safe work practices and environmental techniques.
SECURITY, MEDICAL CHECKS AND LICENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Current Working with Children Check.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Refer to Council's Volunteer Handbook for details on Nillumbik Shire Councils policies and procedures:
Full policy documents are available from the Volunteer Coordinator.
CONTACT
For further information about the volunteer role please contact Councils Environment & Land Management Team by email environment@Nillumbik.vic.gov.au.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Nillumbik Shire Council is committed to equal employment opportunity and encourages applications from people with disability, First Nations people and gender diverse people. Applicants will be considered based on merit as per relevant skills, qualifications, and experience. We are committed to providing a safe working environment that embraces and values child safety, diversity and inclusion. Nillumbik Shire Council prides itself on being a child safe organisation and has zero tolerance for child abuse.
Applicants must have, and provide proof of, the legal right to work in Australia.
The successful applicant will be required to sign a copy of the Volunteer Engagement Agreement to state that they have read, understood and agree to all requirements.
NOTES ON PROBITY CHECKS:
Working With Children Checks
If your role involves working with children or is in a location that offers activities to children, you will require a valid Working with Children Check card and assessment notice. It is a requirement of your volunteer role to advise your supervisor within seven days of receipt of a Negative Notice. As this is an inherent requirement for this position the volunteer position of individuals without a valid WWC Check will be terminated.
CHILD SAFE STANDARDS
Council is required by law to take a preventative, proactive, participatory and inclusive approach to child safety issues. Council must comply with all legal requirements, including reporting suspicions of child abuse to police and/ or child protection. You will receive an invite to Child Safe Standards training shortly after commencing. It’s a mandatory requirement for all Nillumbik Staff and volunteers to complete this.
