The in-country volunteering journey
From applying to arriving on assignment. Learn about the steps to get you in country and home again.
Life on assignment will be an adventure, discover what you can expect
Getting started and orientation
Building a relationship with your partner organisation and in-country team is crucial.
- Your in-country team will invite you to join an orientation program, which might include language lessons.
- Your partner organisation will provide you with work resources.
Safety and security
- Your in-country team will work with you to complete a Personal Security Plan and Accommodation Security Plan.
- You’ll participate in a safety and security briefing as part of your country orientation.
Safety and security
Understanding risks and planning ahead are important aspects of staying safe on assignment
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Monitoring, evaluation and learning
Monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) is an important part of the program. All volunteers and partner organisations are required to complete MEL activities. The following MEL forms will be completed by you and your partner organisation. The forms are completed online through your portal account.
- Prepare an initial Assignment Plan with your partner organisation to outline objectives and activities.
- Conduct a mid-year review for assignments of 11 months or longer.
- Conduct an End of Assignment Evaluation at the end of your assignment.
Learning and development
In addition to your orientation, you will have access to information and online resources as well as a Learning Portal for additional learning and collaboration opportunities. You will also have access to up to $AUD400 as reimbursement for language lessons undertaken to support your assignment.
Staying connected
There are a range of professional and personal development opportunities, and chances to network with other volunteers and partner organisations.
Depending on the duration and location of your assignment, you may have the opportunity to participate in:
- Catch-ups hosted by your in-country team
- Webinars
- Communities of Practice forums
Well-being and personal safety
In-country volunteers have access to a range of support while on assignment, including:
- Support from your in-country team
- Health care services and insurance cover
- Psychological support services
- You will also be supported to maintain your personal safety with training and by completing self-care plans.
Arriving in-country
Information on what happens when you arrive can be found in Section 4 of the Volunteer Guidebook.
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Travel and leave
- In-country volunteers will have opportunities to take leave and may wish to travel. Volunteers are entitled to a minimum of four weeks (20 working days) of annual leave per year, accrued on a pro-rata basis.
- You must request approval from your partner organisation and consult with the in-country team when planning leave. The partner organisation is within its rights to request changes to the timing and duration of leave in accordance with its organisational priorities.
- Leave and travel requests are submitted to and approved by your in-country team.
Looking after your health
Support is available for your physical, mental and social well-being.
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Looking for more information
Support
We provide a range of support services to help you make the most out of your assignment.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
Browse our extensive list of FAQs covering remote and in-country volunteering and more.
Explore the FAQsVolunteer Guidebook
Get a comprehensive overview of the volunteer journey from recruitment to alumni.
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