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Metropolitan Sites : Como, Labassa, Waller House, Glen Fern

 

Como House and Gardens

Perched above the Birrarung (Yarra) River and affectionately known as “the white house on the hill,” Como House is one of Melbourne’s most treasured heritage sites. Surrounded by a romantic pleasure garden and set within vibrant parklands, Como offers volunteers the chance to be part of a living museum that reflects nearly two centuries of Victorian history.

You could step inside this grand yet intimate 1847 mansion and help share the story of the Armytage family, who called Como home for 95 years. As a volunteer, you’ll help bring to life a rare collection of original furniture, decorative arts, and domestic technology—offering visitors a glimpse into the real workings of an elegant 19th-century home, including its preserved servants’ quarters.

Volunteers play a key role in other important areas including events, retail, gardening, and behind-the-scenes support—with opportunities to match your interests and skills throughout the year.

Whether you love storytelling, heritage architecture, hands-on history, or simply being in a beautiful and welcoming environment, we’d love to hear from you. We take new recruits at periodic stages through out the year, so please register your interest and we will get in touch! 

 Como House and Gardens, Corner Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave, South Yarra 3141 
Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Country 

 

Labassa Mansion

From mansion to tenement, Labassa is a rare survival of nineteenth century splendour

Labassa is an exuberantly decorated high Victorian mansion.

Its vibrant history continued well into the twentieth century as home to a silent movie star, artists and bohemians. 

The interiors are a treasure of ornamental decoration with lavish Japanese wallpapers, ornate stained glass and a rare trompe l’oeil ceiling.  

Redeveloped in the French Second Empire style by German-born architect, John A. B. Koch, for owner Alexander William Robertson, the house was remodelled in 1889 into a thirty-five roomed mansion with views across Port Philip Bay.  The tower is open to small tour groups on open days. 

Converted into flats in the 1920s, it functioned as a tenement until 1980. From housing post-war European immigrant families in the 1950s to the psychedelic haze of the 60s and 70s counterculture, Labassa’s diverse history is ready for you to discover.

Labassa hosts an Open Day once a month run by Volunteers. Please register your interest and we will get in touch ! 

 

Labassa Mansion is located at 2 Manor Grove, Caulfield North

Bunurong Country

Waller House

Step into the remarkable world of Napier and Christian Waller, two of Australia’s most celebrated artists, whose murals, mosaics, and stained-glass works grace some of Victoria’s most iconic buildings, from the Melbourne Town Hall and State Library to Myer and churches across the state.

Their Ivanhoe home is a true reflection of their creative spirits, a place where life, art, and craftsmanship merged. Every corner of the house tells a story, from the hand-decorated interiors to the bespoke furniture, lovingly designed by the Wallers themselves in line with the Arts and Crafts movement.

We are seeking passionate volunteers to help bring this extraordinary space to life during public Open Days, care for the tranquil garden that surrounds the home, or delve into the fascinating research behind the Wallers’ artistic legacy.

Whether you enjoy welcoming and guiding visitors, getting your hands in the soil, or uncovering the stories behind the art, there could be a place for you at Waller House. We take volunteers periodically through out the year. Please register your interest and we will get in touch ! 

Waller house, Ivanhoe, Victoria. Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Country 

 

Opportunities Available

Gardening Volunteer

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.  

Thursday'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. 
Continue...

General Interest Registration

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. 
Continue...

Property Guide

 

Image is a Volunteer Guide

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
  • Responsible for managing tour group during emergency – getting to evacuation point.  

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

Training and skill development in: 

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by the property representative. 

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. 

 

Continue...

AUSLAN Guide Support

 

Image is a Volunteer Guide

We want to be more inclusive at Como House and Gardens. You can help make our house and garden tours more accessible and inclusive for everyone. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) is seeking volunteers to support our Volunteer's tour guides by providing AUSLAN interpretation. This is a meaningful opportunity to connect with community, support accessibility, and spend time immersed in the beauty of one of Victoria’s treasured heritage estates. The National Trust is a not for profit organisation that aims to conserve Australia’s history and heritage for present and future generations.  

Volunteer activities could include: 

Assisting with garden tours during the special events 
Supporting the delivery of  the house and or garden tours with AUSLAN
Working as part of a friendly, inclusive 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 events

  • 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. 

 
Continue...

Corporate Volunteering

Looking for a rewarding team-building experience that also gives back to the community? Como House & Gardens offers corporate volunteering opportunities where your team can step away from the office and make a tangible impact on one of Melbourne’s most treasured heritage sites. Whether it’s helping to maintain the beautiful gardens, assisting with events, or supporting conservation projects, your team’s contribution will play a vital role in preserving this historic estate. Join us for a meaningful day of teamwork, connection, and hands-on volunteering in a stunning heritage setting! 

Volunteer activities could include: 

  • Gardening
  • Light Maintenance work
  • Event Support
  • Conservation cleaning

Your Team will be hosted by a National Trust supervisor on the day and may enjoy a guided tour of the house also.
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 one off Volunteer. You will not be expected to hold a Working with children card or a Police check but you will be supervised through out the day. 

If this sounds like your team please get in touch for more information volunteers@nattrust.com.au and please share this with your networks. 
If you team has been booked for a corporate volunteering day please fill in an application form via the link and once approved you will be sent a full inductjon document and details of your corporate volunteering experience. 

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. 
Continue...

2026 Eco Action Volunteer

 

Eco Action Volunteers support the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) in delivering environmental and sustainability projects throughout 2026. This is a flexible, project-based role for those passionate about conservation and community engagement. By expressing your interest in this role you will be added to a mailing list and contacted about upcoming Environmental projects throughout the year.

Key Activities could include:

  • Participate in revegetation projects and other environmental initiatives.
  • Assist with planting, weeding, mulching, and habitat restoration activities at various locations.
  • Assistance with managing information on the biodiversity at our sites (no requirement to work outdoors for this)
  • Support project teams with on-ground tasks and occasional event assistance.
  • Working with partners such as Landcare, existing garden volunteers, other environmental organisations and staff
  • Promote sustainable practices and help create positive environmental outcomes.

Skills & Attributes :

  • Interest in environmental conservation and sustainability.
  • Ability to work outdoors and undertake physical tasks.
  • Team player with good communication skills.
  • Reliability and willingness to follow safety guidelines.

Commitment:

  • Flexible – opportunities will be offered throughout 2026.
  • Volunteers can choose projects based on availability and interest.

Location:
Various National Trust sites and partner locations across Victoria.

Training & Support:

  • Induction provided for each project.
  • Safety briefing and equipment supplied as required.

Benefits:

  • Contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes.
  • Learn new skills and meet like-minded people.
  • Be part of the National Trust’s sustainability initiatives.
  • Feel warm and fuzzy about being part of the solution.
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. 

 

Continue...

Bush Kinder Volunteer Support

The Bush Kinder Volunteer Support role assists the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) to deliver engaging, nature‑based learning experiences for kindergarten‑aged children (3–5 years). Volunteers play a vital role in helping children build confidence in outdoor environments, develop an early connection to nature, and enjoy meaningful intergenerational experiences.

Volunteers will attend sessions alongside NTAV staff and other volunteers, supporting program delivery, encouraging curiosity and exploration, and helping to create a welcoming and safe garden environment for young children. In short creating an intergeneratoinal opportunities for kids to be out in nature, with nice people learning.  The tasks are simple, such as weeding, racking and mulching, and the focus is on engagement rather than efficiency. 

Location: Como House and Gardens, Kitchen Garden
Department: Public Programs
Reports to: Site Supervisor and Stephanie Robinson, Public Programs Coordinator

Program dates & commitment:

  • Ongoing during school terms (the program does not run during school holidays)
  • Every second Tuesday, 8.30am – 12.00pm
  • Commencing 19 May and running through to December 2026
  • (Times subject to confirmation depending on kindergarten bookings)

Minimum commitment:

  • Approximately 2 hours per week, with a minimum commitment of twice per month

Volunteer Duties & Key Responsibilities can include : 

  • Supporting the Public Programs team to prepare age‑appropriate gardening and nature‑based activities (with guidance from supervisors)
  • Interacting positively and respectfully with kindergarten‑aged children
  • Assisting staff to guide children through garden‑based activities
  • Supporting simple gardening tasks such as planting, raking, and mulching
    (Activities focus on children’s experience and exploration rather than efficiency)
  • Supporting garden scavenger hunts and supervised free play
  • Helping ensure children can explore the garden safely and confidently

Skills, Experience & Attributes (Desirable)

  • Gardening experience
  • Interest in sharing a love of gardening and nature, particularly with young children
  • Experience working with kindergarten‑aged children (3–5 years)
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
  • Friendly, patient, and supportive approach

Benefits to Volunteers

  • Opportunity to share a love of gardening and nature with the next generation
  • Meaningful intergenerational connection
  • Wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors
  • Hands‑on involvement in a nature‑based learning program
  • Free entry to Como House and Gardens, including guided tours, events, and exhibitions (on application)
  • Joining a vibrant volunteer community with access to meetings, events, and NTAV outings

Training provided:

  • NTAV standard volunteer induction
  • Bush Kinder program‑specific training

Required documentation:

  • Working With Children Check (WWCC)
  • Police Check

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 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. 
Continue...
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