Uniting Victoria and Tasmania - Volunteer Hub

We offer

• A journey of self discovery and development
• Nationally recognised training
• The opportunity to participate in a unique form of community service
• Ongoing support, mentoring and supervision within a community of friendly, committed people.

What do our crisis supporters say about Lifeline?

• Making a difference and helping people
• Contributing to the wider community
• Relaxed, safe, caring environment
• Improving skills and continual self development

What our volunteers say about Lifeline

“When I first heard about the opportunity to volunteer as a Crisis Supporter for Lifeline Ballarat, I didn’t know what to expect, but I thought I’d give it a go.

It turned out to be a very important decision. I feel engaged and alive. I feel that not only am I helping callers in their time of need, but they in turn help me, it’s definitely a two-way street.

I’ve grown through the experience and I use what I have learned on the phone at Lifeline in my personal life. It has been an enriching experience all round.”

Volunteer Crisis Supporter, June 2016

"I came to my Lifeline Information evening with questions…..

• What difference was Lifeline making in the community?
• What training is provided to be a Crisis Supporter (CS) with Lifeline?
• Did I have the skills to become a CS with Lifeline, would I know what to say? 

It was surprising and confronting to hear the Australian suicide statistics and to learn the impact that Lifeline makes as Australia’s leading crisis support line.  

I found myself inspired - wanting to make a difference for people in crisis –  People finding life difficult, struggling to cope, thinking thoughts of suicide... wanting someone hear and listen to them.

Volunteering with Lifeline has enabled me to be one of those listeners.

I have learned so much.  The professional, accredited Lifeline training has equipped me in my role, and the interaction with Trainers, Lifeline staff, and fellow volunteers, all caring professionals, supports me in my role.

The developed skills and values used in my role as a CS have also transferred into my everyday life – at work, with family, with friends.  I find myself listening more actively, being more empathic, and non-judgmental. 

The training process was informative and extremely supportive and the volunteering environment at Lifeline Ballarat is amazing – professional, friendly, appreciative and volunteers are continually valued and supported.

I feel privileged to be part of the Lifeline team at Ballarat, offering crisis support to Australians through compassion and connection."

Sabine, volunteer CS 2020

What accreditation do Crisis Supporters receive?

Lifeline Telephone Crisis Supporter Workplace Training is mapped to Units of Competency from the Community Services Training Package. Successful completion will result in a Statement of Attainment for the following four units:

• CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
• CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
• CHCCCS028 Provide client-centred support to people in crisis

 Successful completion of these units and ongoing workplace-based training is required to volunteer as a Telephone Crisis Supporter for Lifeline Melbourne.

Step 1 - Apply online

Complete your application by clicking the fill in an application button  

Step 2 - Interview

We’ll then process your application and inform you if we require any further information or would like you to attend an interview. 

Step 3 - Training 

Once your application has been completed you will be invited to commence training as a Crisis Supporter.