This factsheet summarises the new Australian Volunteers for International Development program, and Austraining International.
This factsheet summarises the new Australian Volunteers for International Development program.
This publication is also available in PDF format:
Australian Volunteers for International Development [PDF 631kb]
A new program making it easier for more skilled Australians to contribute to our overseas aid efforts
Since the 1960s, the Government has supported more than 12,000 Australians to volunteer in Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, as part of the overseas aid program. By contributing their time and skills to local development organisations and NGOs, volunteers make a positive contribution to poverty reduction, sustainable development and cross-cultural understanding.
In May 2011 the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd, launched Australian Volunteers for International Development—a new program developed to acknowledge and encourage Australians volunteering in developing countries as part of the Australian aid program.
Australian Volunteers for International Development draws all Australian Government overseas volunteering initiatives together under a single banner making it easier for more skilled Australians to contribute to our overseas aid efforts.
The Australian Government, through AusAID, is partnering with Australian Red Cross, Australian Volunteers International, and Austraining International—organisations with extensive experience in international volunteering—to provide a range of rewarding international development opportunities for Australians aged over 18.
These organisations place volunteers in assignments that are aligned with the aid priorities of the Australian Government and partner governments in developing countries.
While on assignment, Australian volunteers receive a basic monthly living and accommodation allowance so that they can live within the communities in which they serve.
'I've been humbled by the experience and have learnt many invaluable lessons in life. I hope I have made a valuable contribution in improving the lives of the families and kids I have been privileged enough to work with, for they will continue to be an inspiration to me.'
Tam Tran, Volunteer Therapist, Blue Dragon
Children's Foundation, Vietnam.
Volunteers are well placed to develop local capacity because they live within local communities and under local conditions. They develop a strong understanding of local and cultural issues and build effective professional and personal relationships that help them to share skills and knowledge.
Developed following a review of Australia's volunteer program in 2009, the Australian Volunteers for International Development program features:
- improved links to aid program priorities
- an accessible web portal for Australians wanting to volunteer overseas
- streamlined management systems.
In 2011–12 the Government's $55 million commitment to the program will see more than 900 new volunteers deployed to 33 countries including expansion to new countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Australian Volunteers for International Development makes it easier for more Australians to offer their skills and knowledge to help reduce poverty, support sustainable development efforts, and promote Australia as a global citizen through the overseas aid program.
More information
Volunteering overseas
Last reviewed: 2 June, 2011