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Como House and Gardens (South Yarra)

 

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

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. 

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. 

Fill in an application

Geelong & Bellarine

 

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 on Wadawurrung Country 

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 on Wadawurrung Country 

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 on Wadawurrung Country 

 

Chiltern is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Victoria's High Country on Yorta Yorta Country. This charming town, with its rich history and picturesque landscapes, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a glimpse into Victoria’s Gold Rush era.

 

The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) has three properties within a short distance of each other, along with a delightful gift shop selling local products. We are always looking for support at these places ! 

 

Lake View House

 

One of Chiltern’s crown jewels is Lake View House, a Victorian-era modest but stately home that stands as a testament to the town’s grandeur in the 19th century. Overlooking Lake Anderson, this beautifully preserved property allows visitors to step back in time and experience the days gone by. Wander through its quaint rooms, admire the beautifully cared-for grounds and gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the house and its former residents.

 

Lake View House is located at 18-22 Victoria Street, Chiltern on Yorta Yorta Country.

 

Dow’s Pharmacy

 

Step into a long-gone era of medicine at this unique country pharmacy. Untouched since it closed its doors in 1968, Dow’s Pharmacy offers a fascinating window into the world of 19th-century medicine. From vintage pharmaceutical equipment to intriguing medical artifacts, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time as you uncover its many hidden surprises. 

 

Dow's Pharmacy is located at 42 Conness Street, Chiltern  on Yorta Yorta Country.

 

Federal Standard Print Works

 

For those with a fascination for the written word and the art of printing, Federal Standard Print Works is a rare hidden treasure. As one of the few substantially intact provincial newspaper printeries remaining from the gold mining era, this living museum celebrates the history of printing and publishing in regional Victoria. The vintage presses and traditional typesetting equipment have all been carefully preserved and are still put through their paces on open days. 

 

Federal Standard Print Works is located at Main Street, Chiltern  on Yorta Yorta Country.

 

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.

 

We are always looking for new Volunteers to Support our team in the beautiful Heritage Town. 

 

Mills Cottage is located at 40 Gipps Street, Port Fairy on Eastern Marr Country.

 

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 on Eastern Marr Country.

 

Opportunities Available

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. 

Fill in an application

Gulf Station (Yarra Glen)

Established in the 1850s, Gulf Station was farmed for nearly 100 years by the Bell family.

Gulf Station is one of the oldest and most intact examples of a pioneer farm complex in Australia. Wander around the property’s homestead and outbuildings and be transported into the domestic life of a rural colonial family where a mother’s word was law. Guided tours take place at 11.30am on open days (other times may be available) or enjoy a self-guided tour.

Scottish settlers Agnes and William Bell were the first to lease the land where the property was established. From the 1850s to the 1950s, Gulf Station supplied produce to gold miners of the district. The National Trust acquired stewardship of the property in 1976 and restored its buildings and cottage garden.

We are looking for Volunteers to assist us with Guiding, Open days, Maintenance and Repair, Research and behind the scenes activitiy.  Our Volunteer group is very social and we would love for you to join us for a cup of tea !

Gulf Station is located at 1029 Melba Highway, Yarra Glen on Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Country 

Opportunities Available

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 
  • Some knowledge and enjoyment of routine gardening practices is desirable but not essential.  
  • 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. 

Fill in an application

Mornington Peninsula

The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) proudly manages several remarkable properties that allow visitors to step back in time and explore our shared heritage.  

 

Mulberry Hill

 

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Langwarrin, Mulberry Hill stands as a testament to the creative legacy of artist Sir Daryl Lindsay and author Lady Joan Lindsay. This charming property was their home for over four decades and served as an inspiring backdrop for their artistic pursuits. From Sir Daryl’s captivating artworks to Lady Joan’s iconic novel, “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” the house and gardens of Mulberry Hill echo with the enchanting spirit of Australian art and literature.  We are always happy to hear from interested Volunteers especially to assist with the gardens and guiding. 

 

Mulberry Hill is located at 385 Golf Links Road, Langwarrin South on Bunurong/Boon Wurrung Country 

 

McCrae Homestead

 

Step into the pages of history at McCrae Homestead, one of the oldest surviving houses in Victoria. Built by Andrew and Georgiana McCrae in the mid-19th century, this charming cottage reflects the challenges and triumphs of early settlers. Explore the period rooms, and discover the intriguing stories of the McCrae family, whose legacy endures in this historic gem. 

The Visitor’s Centre, located on the property, features galleries which showcase the McCrae’s art, memorabilia and the photography, artefacts and objects from the families who live at the homestead. 

 

Our happy group are looking for people to assist with gardening, guiding and conservation cleaning at the property. Please register your interest ! 

 

McCrae Homestead is located at 11 Beverley Road, McCrae on Bunurong / Boon Wurrung Country 

 

Endeavour Fern Gully

 

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature and history, Endeavour Fern Gully is a must-visit. Wander around serene creeks, towering trees, and an abundance of flora and fauna unique to this part of the Mornington Peninsular. Here, history and nature intertwine to create a serene and educational experience. 

 

The 2 km loop walking track takes around 30 – 40 minutes, with interpretive signage to explore along the path. 

 

We are looking at putting together regular environmental Volunteer groups. Please register your interest. 

 

Endeavour Fern Gully is located at 195 Arthurs Seat Road on Bunurong / Boon Wurrung Country 

 

General Interests

General Interest Registration Mulberry Hill

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. 

General Interest Registration McCrae

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. 

Fill in an application

National Trust Head Office (East Melbourne)

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.

Its here you can find Volunteering roles with our central Teams, such as Advocacy, Collections, Marketing, Retail and Commercial.  If you are an Intern this is where you should register your interest also! 

The National Trust Head Office is located at 6 Parliament Place, East Melbourne on Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Country 

 

Opportunities Available

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. 

General Interest YOUTH Registration

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. 

 

Preventative Conservation Cleaning Volunteer

As a Preventative Conservation 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.

Inductions are done through out the year.

Positions are available at Como House, Rippon Lea, Mulberry Hill, McCrae Homestead, Gulf Station, and other properties.

Volunteer activities could include: 

  • Preventative conservation and intensive cleaning 
  • Dust, clean and polish collection objects and building fabric as per techniques described in the NTAV housekeeping manual 
  • Follow list of objects needing intensive cleaning and tick off when completed

Knowledge and Skills required :  

  • Some object handling understanding and willingness to learn
  • Time management  skills and awareness
  • Basic IT skills

Volunteer Benefits include  

  • Opportunity to meet people with similar interests and make new friends weekly.
  • Learn about Australia heritage and cultural sites.
  • Gain experienced with respected and best practice industry expert
  • 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 .

Training and Skill Development

  • National Trust general induction for all volunteers. 
  • Site Induction by NTAV Coordinator. 
  • Ongoing learning in Collections and Object handling, 

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. 

Fill in an application

Rippon Lea Estate

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 is a vast and complicated site. From gardening, guiding, front of house and back of houses there can be something for everyone here! There is always multitude of roles available with periodic inductions. Please register your interest and we will be in touch! 

Rippon Lea Estate is located at 192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick on Bunurong / Boon Wurrung Country 

 

Opportunities Available

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. 

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