Volunteering in Cardinia Shire

People in Cardinia Shire volunteer to make a difference, make new friends, learn new skills and to help others. Although Council does not have a formal volunteering program, it supports almost 500 volunteer not-for-profit groups in a range of sectors including:

Council has allocated community strengthening officers for each of the four wards of the Shire (Ranges, Central, Bunyip and Port), who work with residents, groups, progress associations, halls, neighbourhood houses and township committees.

Council also offers a subsidised volunteer training program which is provided by local neighbourhood houses, community centres and Universities of the Third Age (U3A) each term. Courses include food handling, first aid, bookkeeping, effective communication, disability awareness and computers. Council also has training available to deliver to community groups and committees in business planning, effective communication, grant writing and marketing.

In May each year, as part of National Volunteer Week, Cardinia’s Mayor hosts a volunteer reception at the Cardinia Cultural Centre to recognise and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Shire volunteers.

The Volunteering in Cardinia Shire Project in partnership with Council is pleased to announce the availability of volunteer training. Courses will be offered to volunteers across the Shire at a subsidised rate. The following courses will be available throughout the year:

For details of available programs and fees and to apply for a subsidised place, view the Training subsidy application form (PDF, 48kb) and contact the relevant training provider directly. For details of courses on offer, view the print version of the training calendar (PDF, 90kb).

View details of facilities offering subsidised volunteer training in Council's online directory:

Council's online community directory provides access to hundreds of not-for-profit and community groups, including sporting clubs, 'friends' groups, health and wellbeing groups.

The community directory offers one free listing to not-for-profit community groups and organisations operating in or servicing people in Cardinia Shire. To request inclusion, please submit your organisation's details via email.

For further information on the directory or to report problems, contact Council on 1300 787 624.