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Como House and Gardens (South Yarra)
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Enjoy the calm of an urban pleasure garden and historic house. Discover the story of Melbourne with a visit to Como House. Known by many Melburnians as ‘the white house on the hill,’ Como overlooks the Birrurung (Yarra) river and is surrounded by a pleasure garden and community parkland. Leila Armytage called her home ‘the last remaining oasis.’ Como is an atmospheric town mansion presented as a family home. The interiors reflect the tastes and style of the Armytages, who lived at Como for 95 years. It was the first house museum in Australia acquired with its contents of furniture, domestic technology and decorative arts. Como was a home but also a place of work, and the original servants’ quarters are preserved. Built in 1847, Como House is an unusual mix of Australian Regency and classic Italianate architecture. The garden has retained many elements of its 1850s design. Since colonisation, Como has changed with Melbourne, reflecting the booms and busts of Victoria’s history. This is the story you will hear on your visit. Como House is located at the Corner of Williams Rd & Lechlade Ave, South Yarra |
Opportunities Available
General Interest Registration
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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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |
Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer
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As a Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), you will play an essential role in preserving our cultural heritage. This role involves caring for historical objects and building interiors through preventative conservation and intensive cleaning practices. Volunteers will receive training and follow detailed guidelines from the NTAV Housekeeping Manual to ensure the safe and effective care of collection items. Volunteer activities could include:
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and Skill Development
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. |
Corporate Volunteering
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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:
Your Team will be hosted by a National Trust supervisor on the day and may enjoy a guided tour of the house also. 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. Thank you for considering volunteering with us. |
Geelong & Bellarine
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Barwon Park Mansion Barwon Park is an authentic bluestone mansion and stables set in a sweeping rural landscape. Visitors still marvel at the magnificent entrance hall and impressive room. The restored mansion and stables are also an ideal venue for weddings, photography and group functions. Barwon Park is located at 105 Inverleigh Road, Winchelsea Barwon Grange The only surviving example of the many fashionable river front residences built along the Barwon River during the 1850s and 1860s for the wealthy of Geelong. The extensive library featured a ‘Cyclopaedia of Medicine’ and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The cellar was stocked with wine and spirits, the conservatory filled with plants, sculptures, a collection of coral and two canaries in brass cages. Barwon Grange is located at 25 Fernleigh Street, Newton The Heights Heritage Home & Garden The Heights is the largest prefabricated house in Victoria and still retain many of its mid-nineteenth century charms. The stables, water tower, groom’s cottage and dovecote are all in original condition. The beautifully maintained gardens are a centrepiece of The Heights. The Heights is located at 140 Aphrasia Street, Newtown |
Opportunities Available
Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer
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As a Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), you will play an essential role in preserving our cultural heritage. This role involves caring for historical objects and building interiors through preventative conservation and intensive cleaning practices. Volunteers will receive training and follow detailed guidelines from the NTAV Housekeeping Manual to ensure the safe and effective care of collection items. Volunteer activities could include:
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and Skill Development
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. |
General Interest Registration
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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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |
National Trust Head Office (East Melbourne)
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The head office of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) One of the finest examples of a nineteenth-century three-storey terrace house in Australia, Tasma Terrace was built in 1879 for wealthy grain merchant George Nipper as a stylish guest house and family home. Facing demolition and replacement with hi-rise towers in 1970, this beautiful and unique building was saved through the advocacy of the National Trust. Tasma Terrace now houses the head office of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), a gallery space, and a number of period decorated meeting and function rooms. The National Trust Head Office is located at 6 Parliament Place, East Melbourne |
Opportunities Available
General Interest Registration
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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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |
2025 Vintage Clothing Sale Support Volunteers
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Love Vintage? Join us and help at the iconic Vintage Clothing Sale being held at Abbotsford Convent this March! The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) are seeking a Volunteers to support our core Volunteering Team in the lead up to and across the sale 22nd and 23rd march 2025. Volunteer activities could include:
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
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. 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. |
2025-2026 Vintage Sale Essential Volunteers
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Volunteer Opportunity: Help Continue Our Iconic Vintage Clothing Sale! For 15 years, a dedicated and inspiring group of women have collected, mended, and sold vintage apparel, accessories, and objects—raising invaluable funds for the National Trust of Australia (Victoria).This admired team is now retiring, and we are seeking expressions of interest from passionate volunteers who would love to carry forward this cherished tradition. If you have an knowledge of fashion brands, vintage fashion, sustainable fashion, retail, or community fundraising, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in ensuring this Iconic Vintage Clothing Sale continues for another 15 years. Volunteer activities could include :
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer. If this sounds like you (or someone you know), please get in touch by filling in an application or contacting 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. |
Port Fairy Properties
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Mills Cottage
One of Victoria's oldest homes, Mills Cottage is a reminder of maritime history and life in Port Fairy, a fishing village on the Shipwreck Coast
Named after the Mills family, who occupied or owned the cottage from 1842 – 1909, the house remains considerably intact including over fifty different wallpapers layered throughout its rooms. The earliest surviving part of Mills Cottage dates to 1843, making it one of Victoria’s oldest homes.
John and his brother Charles Fredrick Mills had been sealers and whalers, but settled in Port Fairy, where John became a maritime trader and Harbour Master and Charles a farmer. From the mid 1850s-1871 Captain John Mills was the Port Fairy Harbour Master, an important role in such a bustling port.
Mills Cottage is located at 40 Gipps Street, Port Fairy.
Mott’s Cottage
Mott’s Cottage is a charming vernacular cottage that reflects the lives of people who worked in the port village.
Named after Sarah Jane Mott who lived in the cottage for 26 years in the early 20th century, her family were fishermen and boatmen in the township.
Constructed in three stages, the oldest section dates from 1845 or earlier.
Unusually for a humble seaman’s cottage it acquired a second story when Mrs Jane Chastel leased the property in the 1850s. It was then occupied by local stonemason John Hooper who ran a boarding house with his daughter Caroline in the late nineteenth century.
Mott's Cottage is located at 5 Sackville Street, Port Fairy |
Opportunities Available
General Interest Registration
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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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |
Rippon Lea Estate
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Rippon Lea is a large 19th century mansion surrounded by 7 hectares of Victorian pleasure gardens. It is listed on the National Heritage Register as one of the finest examples of original suburban estate in Australia. The house was completed in 1868. It was built for Frederick Sargood. Sargood made his money selling soft-goods on the goldfields. The house is named after his mother’s maiden-name, Rippon. Lea is an English word for meadow. The property was a large, self-sufficient farm, about twice the size it is now. The mansion was originally 15 rooms; it currently has 33 rooms. Sargood moved in with his first wife, Marian, and their 9 surviving children. There were 7 maids, a butler, 7 gardeners, a coachman and a groom. Sargood was a typical man of the Victorian Age – visionary and practical. This resulted in an elaborate underground watering system and the house having its own electricity supply. Unusually for its time, the house had internal toilets. Sargood was a keen gardener who was particularly interested in orchids and ferns. A large number of plants were imported. The garden is complex and covers almost 14 acres, which includes a large lake, extensive shrubberies and flower gardens, an orchard of historically significant fruit varieties, a fernery, rose gardens and many other features of historical, landscape and architectural interest, all forming the setting for the polychrome brick mansion completed in 1868. Rippon Lea Estate is located at 192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick |
Opportunities Available
Property 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.
Benefits for our Volunteers
Skills, qualifications or experience required (or desirable) for role
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. |
Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer
![]() |
As a Collections Preventative Cleaning Volunteer with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), you will play an essential role in preserving our cultural heritage. This role involves caring for historical objects and building interiors through preventative conservation and intensive cleaning practices. Volunteers will receive training and follow detailed guidelines from the NTAV Housekeeping Manual to ensure the safe and effective care of collection items. Volunteer activities could include:
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and Skill Development
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. 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. |
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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |
Hidden Heritage Digital Project needs Copywriters and UX enthusiasts,
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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:
Knowledge and Skills required :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
You will be one of a team of experienced volunteers. As part of the application process, we will ask you to agree to register as a National Trust Volunteer. 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. |
Waller House (Ivanhoe)
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Immerse yourself in the lives of those who lived, created, loved, and lost in Waller House. Napier and Christian Waller’s murals, mosaics and stained glass paintings adorn prominent buildings in Melbourne and their work is represented in major galleries. Their Ivanhoe home and studio has been left intact as a memorial. The history of Waller House is often associated with the life and career of noted Australian muralist, mosaicist and stained glass artist Napier Waller. Less is known however about the women who also worked within these walls. Christian Waller worked alongside her husband to establish this superb Arts and Crafts style home, whilst also pursuing her own successful career. Waller House is located at Crown Road, Ivanhoe |
Opportunities Available
General Interest Registration
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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 :
Volunteer Benefits include
Training and skill development in:
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. |