Frequently Asked Questions

The University actively encourages and promotes a culture of volunteering that adds to the richness of University life by involving a diverse range of people in a variety of activities. Volunteering provides an integral link between the University and the wider community. The Volunteer Program was formalised in 2003 and has since grown to more than 3,000 volunteers.

Explore our where to volunteer page to see more volunteering opportunities.

University volunteers come from all walks of life and include alumni, students, public and staff. There is a vast variety of volunteering opportunities available: organising competitions with Adelaide University Sports, working with children through the Children's University, arranging flowers sourced from the Rose Gardens of Urrbrae House, mentoring fellow students, participating in art and cultural activities through University Collections and Confucius Institute and many more.

Explore all volunteering positions available or browse through volunteering groups for more opportunities.

There are many benefits of volunteering. It can help you to jump start your career, help you discover new skills, give back to the community, meet new people and stay connected with your University. Students can be formally recognised for their volunteering on their transcript through the Adelaide Graduate Award.

More benefits

No, volunteering is time willingly given for the common good and without financial gain.

An internship is a formal work experience arrangement that is part of an education or training course where students need to gain experience in a particular occupation or industry. Volunteering can also serve this purpose, but the driving force is your desire to help out without any financial gain.

No, volunteering does not have to relate to your study. In fact, among some of the many benefits of volunteering is discovering new skills which may open further opportunities, not to mention meeting new people.

When you sign up for a volunteering position, make sure that you have read the responsibilities of the position you are applying for and that you fit the criteria outlined. Some volunteering roles may require a GPA level, specific discipline or a working with children check. Checking the time-frame of the position before applying is also a good idea, to ensure it fits in your schedule.

There are many team volunteering roles that you can join with your friends. Team volunteering may include helping out at O'Week, Open Day and other community and cultural events. View the list of positions to see what's currently available.

Volunteering is also a great way to make new friends who share your interests and passions. 

Of course, volunteering is a great way to discover new skills and interests. An added bonus is that you will make a lot of new friends along the way.

The University Volunteer Program does not formally offer work experience placements. However, some volunteering roles can help you gain experience in the workplace. 

Browse the where to volunteer page and select the category that fits you best. This page will provide a list of volunteering opportunities for students, alumni and the public.

Volunteering groups actively seeking volunteers are listed on the positions available webpage.

The Adelaide Graduate Award is an employability development program available to University of Adelaide students only. The program is designed to complement students' studies without extending the time spent at university. Key components of the program involve undertaking work experience and volunteering. Once the program completes, students are formally recognised and the Award is added to their transcript. 

As a student you will need to complete a minimum of 30 volunteering hours. Visit the Adelaide Graduate Award website for further information.

As outlined in the University Volunteer Policy, we do not recommend volunteering for more than 15 hours per week.

There are many opportunities for Alumni to volunteer with the University and stay connected. Visit the alumni volunteering page to see where you can volunteer.

Yes, there are many opportunities for you to volunteer with the University. Visit the public volunteering page to see where you can volunteer.