Community Development Volunteering in Australia

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Jumpstart your career in Australia. Partnering with leading companies and NGOs, our Melbourne internship program provide students, graduates, and early-career professionals with international work experience, professional skills, and global networking opportunities. Intern in Melbourne, one of the world’s most livable cities, known for its vibrant business scene, innovative industries, and rich cultural life. Gain placements across business, finance, marketing, PR, tech, entrepreneurship, and NGOs, tailored to your career goals. Participants also benefit from professional development tools, mentorship, cultural events, and expert guidance, helping build a standout résumé and advance your career. Whether you’re a student, graduate, or early-career professional, our Melbourne internship program provides the ultimate pathway to international experience, career growth, and global opportunities.

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Looking for an international internship that will set you apart—and give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in your career? Connect-123 designs fully customized programs that match your background and goals, offering hands-on experience in some of the world’s most exciting cities: Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Dublin, and Sydney. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or experienced professional, our programs span dozens of fields including business, finance, medicine, public health, journalism, marketing, human rights, law, sustainability, education, and more. You’ll gain meaningful, career-related experience while also exploring life in a new culture. We take care of the details so you can focus on making the most of your time abroad. From the moment you apply, our team helps guide you through the process, secure your placement, and prepare you for your new adventure. With flexible start dates and customizable program lengths, your life-changing internship begins on your schedule.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

Through World Internships, we offer flexible customized internships (volunteers are also welcome) in a variety of fields in the "Land Down Under". Realize your dream of living and working in beautiful Australia while enjoying exceptional support and group activities that will engage you with both your fellow international interns and the locals. Sydney and Melbourne are fantastic locations for students, recent graduates, and pre-professionals to explore their fields and add an international perspective to their resumes. The high creative energy in Sydney and Melbourne makes them the perfect places for internships in advertising, architecture, graphic design, interior design, and journalism, while their popularity as cities make them ideal for those involved with event management, hospitality, travel, and tourism. Sydney, Australia’s oldest and largest city, boasts the world-famous Sydney Opera House, stunning harbors, and beautiful beaches. Melbourne is the country’s art center where you can check out the cultural hub of Federation Square, attend one of the many music and film festivals, or spend a day at one of Port Phillip’s many beaches.

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

The Discipleship Training School (DTS) at YWAM Toowoomba is a transformative five-month journey designed to help you know God more deeply and make Him known in Australia and the nations. Set in the beautiful landscapes of Southeast Queensland, our campus provides the perfect environment for growth, reflection, and community. This program blends classroom learning, small group activities, personal reflection, practical service, and daily community living. You won’t just sit and listen—you’ll actively engage in a rhythm of life that combines biblical teaching with hands-on application. The DTS is divided into two key phases: Lecture Phase (3 months): During this time, you’ll receive teaching from experienced international speakers on topics such as hearing God’s voice, the character and nature of God, identity in Christ, the power of prayer, relationships, missions, and much more. Outreach Phase (2 months): After being equipped and prepared, you’ll put your learning into action on a cross-cultural mission trip. Join us in Toowoomba and be part of a movement that is equipping young people to impact the nations with the love of Jesus.

Join VMR Southport as a volunteer and become part of a dedicated team that provides critical marine rescue services. Volunteers can engage in various roles, including radio operation, rescue vessel crew, and administrative duties. This is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable skills, meet new people, and contribute to community safety. Responsibilities: Operate VMR Base and Gold Coast Seaway Tower radios Crew rescue vessels during emergency responses Assist with administrative tasks and operational logistics By volunteering, you get free training recognized under National systems, develop skills in radio operation and marine rescue, contribute to the safety of the Gold Coast boating community, and join a supportive and engaged volunteer network. Make a meaningful impact by volunteering with VMR Southport. Join us in providing vital rescue services and enhancing marine safety. Join our team today!

Volunteering with FoodFilled in Melbourne offers a rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact on food security and environmental sustainability. As a volunteer, you'll collect surplus food from our retail partners and deliver it to those in need. This hands-on work has a direct impact on the community and is even more enjoyable when done with other volunteers, family, or friends. Our volunteer group is diverse, with people from all walks of life who share a common goal of helping others. Volunteering with FoodFilled is not just about the tasks; it's about building relationships, creating positive change, and experiencing the joy of contributing to a cause that matters.

Animal Welfare League of South Australia Inc (AWL) offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference while experiencing Australia’s diverse natural beauty and vibrant communities. The AWL volunteer program allows you to contribute to various impactful projects across the country, from wildlife conservation to community support and environmental preservation. Whether you are assisting with the protection of endangered species, helping local communities, or participating in beach clean-ups, your efforts will have a lasting positive impact. This program is flexible, with start dates available throughout the year and durations ranging from a few weeks to several months. It is open to individuals aged 18 and over who are passionate about making a difference. Volunteering with AWL not only enhances your skills but also provides an immersive cultural experience, fostering connections with fellow volunteers and local residents.