Volunteer With Us

Join weekly social garden groups to support the maintenance of our gardens and their heritage value. Gain experience in a Heritage Garden, meet like-minded friends, experience the health benefits of being in the garden and help us look after these special places. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) are seeking a Volunteers to assist in or weekly Gardening groups at various properties across the state.  

Wednesday's 10:00am - 12 noon

Volunteer activities could include: 

• Attend weekly working bees, under the direction of the NTAV representative (various for properties)  
• Carry out garden maintenance and development tasks.  
• Work co-operatively with other volunteers to keep the garden at the highest standard practicable within the available resources.   
• Tasks vary with the seasons, Planting, Presentation, Weeding, Pruning, Raking 

Knowledge and Skills required :  

• Experience is not always necessary 
• Some knowledge and enjoyment of routine gardening practices is desirable but not essential.  
• Willingness to adapt procedures to ensure maintenance of heritage aspects of the garden. 
• Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Social and community benefits 
• Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  
• Exercise and natural benefits and wellbeing from spending time in nature 
• Learn about Horticulture, heritage and presentation of significant gardens.  
• Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
• Site Induction by Garden Coordinator. 

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

Volunteers can be provided with a letter of reference. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please get in touch for more information volunteers@nattrust.com.au and please share this with your networks. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

Get involved with us at the 36th Teddy Bears' Picnic – an iconic annual event held at the historic Rippon Lea House and Gardens. This much-loved event, held in the beautiful gardens, will be bigger and better than ever with brand new activities, games and sights to see. Featuring live entertainment, face painters, old fashioned games, craft activities, fairground rides and much, much more. We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and responsible volunteers to support the successful delivery of this Event

Event details

Date of event: Sunday 22nd February 2026
Time: 10am - 3pm
Location: Rippon Lea House and Gardens (192 Hotham St, Elsternwick 3185)

Volunteer Roles include

Face Painters
Children’s Activities Assistants
Craft Stations Assistants 
Story Tellers
Old Fashion Games Attendants
Admissions / Ticket Sales Officers 
Customer Service Volunteers

Please specify on your application which role you are interested in. 

You will be one of a team of volunteers guided by our staff and registered volunteer cohort. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations.

Knowledge and Skills required  

• Good Customer service skills desirable
• Engaging audiences specifically families desirable
• Positive work ethic appreciated
• Experience is not always necessary

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Social and community benefits
• Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends. 
• Opportunity to join a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV. 
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers.
• Site Induction 

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please fill in an application form via the Better Impact Portal. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

As a Property Guide with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), you will play a vital role in bringing our heritage sites to life. By hosting small groups of visitors, you will share fascinating stories, highlight key points of interest, and answer questions to ensure an engaging and memorable experience. As an ambassador for the National Trust, you will not only connect visitors to the rich history of our properties but also help share the broader vision and mission of preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage. You are intrinsic in sharing what the National Trust does to the public.

Volunteer activities could include

• Contribute as a National Trust volunteer towards achieving our mission
• Provide the agreed Acknowledgement of Country before tours commence
• Conduct group and individual tours through the house and/or grounds
• Interpret the contents of the property using guide notes provided by the NTAV
• Provide an interesting and accurate account of the social history to visitors
• Answer questions from the public, escalating to property manager if required.
• Encourage NTAV membership through the tour
• Inspire the community to appreciate, conserve and celebrate its built, natural and cultural heritage
• A minimum of two days of volunteering a month maybe required.

Benefits for our Volunteers

• Opportunity to meet people with similar interests and make new friends weekly.
• Learn about Australia heritage and cultural sites.
• Meaningful volunteering with contributes to health and well being
• Free entry to site where volunteering with a guided house tour, including events and  exhibitions, on application.
• Join a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage

Skills, qualifications or experience required (or desirable) for role

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to learn the history of the house and/or garden.
• Time management skills and awareness
• Willingness to adapt presentations to suit the audience / group on the tour and current exhibits of house.
• Current Working with Children Card
• Current Police check on application

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 
As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  
If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please fill in an application. If you have any problems or  require further detail please contact volunteers@nattrust.com.au and please share this with your networks. 
Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 
We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

As a Gatehouse volunteer at Rippon Lea you will be the first face of our visitors encounter and your role is vital to their successful visit by welcoming to our special place. 

As the first point of contact, you represent the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) and help create a positive and engaging visitor experience. Volunteers support the retail operations of the Gatehouse Shop, promote NTAV membership, and assist with general visitor enquiries.

Volunteer activities could include

• Greet and assist visitors upon arrival
• Operate the Gatehouse Shop, including ticketing and small refreshment stand
• Promote and process NTAV memberships at the checkout
• Inform visitors about what's on offer at the property
• Answer general visitor questions and refer complex enquiries to the Property Manager
• Maintain a welcoming and tidy retail space
• Contribute to the NTAV’s mission by inspiring appreciation for Victoria’s cultural heritage

Benefits for our Volunteers

• Be part of a passionate and supportive team
• Meet new people and engage with the public
• Contribute to the preservation of one of Melbourne’s most iconic heritage sites
• Gain experience in customer service and retail
• Learn about Australia heritage and cultural sites.
• Meaningful volunteering with contributes to health and well being
• Free entry to site where volunteering with a guided house tour, including events and  exhibitions, on application.
• Join a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage

Skills, qualifications or experience required (or desirable) for role

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Friendly and approachable manner
• Willingness to learn about the history of Rippon Lea and its gardens
• Retail or point-of-sale experience (desirable but not essential)
• Basic IT skills (e.g., using rosters, email, or POS systems)
• Willingness to learn and follow procedures

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while connecting with our rich heritage. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or community, there’s a role for you. From guiding visitors through iconic properties to supporting events, being involved in our gardens and landscape spaces, conservation projects, or assisting with administration, you’ll play a vital part in preserving and celebrating our cultural legacy. Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help us protect the stories of the past for future generations.

If there is not a current Volunteer opportunity available that interests please apply and our Staff will contact you to discuss what opportunity best suits you

Knowledge and Skills required :  

• Experience is not always necessary 
• Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Social and community benefits 
• Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.   
• Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
• Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.  Volunteers are may be required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

We’re seeking creative volunteers to help bring Rippon Lea’s "Hidden Heritage" stories to life! If you have copywriting skills, experience with Canva, and a flair for storytelling, we need your help to craft engaging content that links images and video to make stories of the past resonate with modern audiences.

Join us in celebrating Rippon Lea’s untold stories and shaping a unique digital experience.

Flexible commitment, rewarding impact!

Volunteer activities could include: 

• Attend regular online catch ups using Teams to discuss the project  
• Undertake research of the NTAV archives to discover interesting images and text
• Work co-operatively with other volunteers to add storylines to the Hidden Heritage website
• Produce content to a high standard within the available resources.   
• Tasks can vary but could include researching internal archives and external repositories such as Trove and PROV, creating vision using NTAV equipment, writing short articles that link to the images to tell a digital story that expands on what visitors learn from a guided tour on site. 

Knowledge and Skills required :  

• Experience is desirable as is a working knowledge of Canva and copywriting 
• An interest in Heritage and historical storytelling a plus 
• Willingness to adapt procedures as project evolves. 
• Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Social and community benefits 
• Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  
• Learn about local history and conservation of Rippon Lea. 
• Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers

You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers.
The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer.
Volunteers WHO WILL ATTEND on site must have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  Volunteers working exclusively remotely do not require this. 

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please fill in application form or share this opportunity with your networks. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

Be part of something special at this year’s Botanica Festival , a sustainability festival being held at Rippon Lea Estate. You can help make our garden tours more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is seeking volunteers to support our Volunteer garden tour guides by providing AUSLAN interpretation during guided walks. This is a meaningful opportunity to connect with community, support accessibility, and spend a day immersed in the beauty of one of Victoria’s treasured heritage gardens. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations. We operate with a volunteer board, small team of paid staff and a large cohort of volunteers. 

Volunteer activities could include: 

Assisting with garden tours during the Botanica Festival
Supporting the delivery of  the tour with AUSLAN
Working as part of a friendly, inclusive festival team

Knowledge and Skills required :  

• Familiarity with AUSLAN is necessary  
• Some knowledge and enjoyment of gardens is desirable but not essential.  
• Ability to support public facing events 
• Willingness to work outdoors and be active walking on your feet for minimum of 1 -2 hours 
• Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Contribution to a more inclusive and accessible public event

• Be part of a beautiful heritage garden event

• Meet like-minded people who care about community, accessibility, and culture

• Gain experience supporting public programming and events

• Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  

• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
• Site Induction by Event Coordinator. 

You will be one of a team of  volunteers. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer by filling in an application here. 
Volunteers are required to have a current Working with Children’s Card (free for volunteers) and police check which you can apply for as part of the application process.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us.
We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 
We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

Are you aged between 13  to under 18 and looking for a way to get involved, give back, and gain new skills? Volunteering with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is a great way for young people to connect with history, the environment, and the community—while having fun and making a real impact.

Whether you're interested in heritage, gardens, storytelling, events, or behind-the-scenes support, there are age-appropriate opportunities for you to get involved. You might help at open days, assist with tours or activities, support gardening teams, or lend a hand with creative projects and administration.

Youth volunteering is a chance to:

• Learn valuable skills and build confidence

• Meet new people and be part of a welcoming team

• Gain experience that looks great on job or uni applications

• Help preserve our shared stories for future generations

We welcome young volunteers and work with schools, community groups, and families to create meaningful, roles that inspire a love for heritage and volunteering. The National Trust is a child safe organisation with all our staff and volunteers having the appropriate up to date compliance checks in place. 

Join us and become a young custodian of the past—shaping a better future.

Knowledge and Skills required :  

• Experience is not always necessary  
• Positive work ethic appreciated 

Volunteer Benefits include  

• Social and community benefits 
• Connection to meet people with similar interests and make new friends.  .  
• Joining a community of volunteers, with regular meetings and opportunities for attendance at events and outings organised by NTAV.  
• Chance to make a positive difference to our cultural heritage 

Training and skill development in: 

• National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
• Site Induction by National Trust Staff member

To qualify as a Youth Volunteer with the NTAV you must be under 18 years of age.  
Individuals who are 12 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a carer whilst volunteering, who is also a registered NTAV volunteer and provide written consent from their guardian.  Individuals who are aged between 13-17 years of age are eligible to volunteer having provided written guardian consent.  

Thank you for considering volunteering with us. We believe in inclusiveness, diversity, and equality and are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are a reflection of that. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply to our vacancies. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. 

We promote diversity and practice equity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.