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BECOME A VOLUNTEER

MRS is looking for volunteers to assist refugees and humanitarian entrants in Sydney with their settlement needs. Each volunteer will be assigned to a refugee individual or family as their Settlement Assistance Officer.

If you want to work with other people from within the community to make resettlement easier for refugees and humanitarian entrants, please read on!

As a volunteer you would:

  • Be a friend: be able to listen and advise, and spend time together
  • Accompany the person/family to attend medical appointments etc, as necessary
  • Assist in using public transport
  • Assist in accessing services such as English classes
  • Help the person/family to understand Australian culture and systems
  • Assist in making contacts in the community

You are a suitable volunteer if:

  • You are interested in the settlement needs and experiences of refugees
  • You are interested in and sensitive to different cultures
  • You have a flexible time schedule (students, part-time workers or retired people could be ideal)
  • You are an easy-going, open-minded, friendly and resourceful person
  • You are willing to attend initial training sessions and make a commitment to volunteer for a minimum of 12 months for 5 hours per week
  • You are free to attend volunteer meetings in the evening (4 per year), seminar mornings on weekends (2 per year) and MRS outings with your family (3 per year on weekend days).

What you can expect:

  • A new, challenging and rewarding experience
  • A role in overcoming racism in Australia and breaking down cross-cultural barriers
  • The opportunity to be a part of the worldwide network of the Mercy Refugee Service
  • The opportunity to meet new people, share ideas and expand your social activities
  • Ongoing support from the Project Coordinator and other volunteers
  • A certificate of completion and a reference if you complete the training and volunteer for at least 12 months

How To Apply

You will need to request an information package and fill out and return the application form included in this package.

You can request the information package by mail, fax, phone, email or you can download a copy of it here.

Download information package