Train, Respond, Listen, Empower - Join the Lifeline Ballarat Team in 2026.
Lifeline has been supporting Australians through crisis for more than 60 years. Every day, people reach out to Lifeline when they are experiencing distress, loneliness, or thoughts of suicide. Through the dedication of our trained volunteers and staff, Lifeline provides connection, compassion, and support when it is needed most.
Lifeline Ballarat are seeking compassionate volunteers to join our community of Crisis Supporters, providing support to people reaching out in moments of distress.
**What is involved in becoming a Lifeline Crisis Supporter volunteer? **
All volunteers complete Lifeline’s comprehensive Crisis Supporter training program before supporting callers. This training prepares you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to provide safe and effective crisis support. Volunteers are asked to commit to around 8 hours per month in our phone rooms at Lifeline Ballarat (approximately 92 hours per year).
Alongside shift time, volunteers also take part in professional development, group supervision, and reflective practice, which are important parts of supporting volunteers in this work.
Shifts are scheduled in advance, and volunteers can select times that work around their other commitments. This regular contribution helps ensure that when someone reaches out to Lifeline, they are met with a caring and supportive voice.
As part of the training, volunteers will need intermediate computer skills and access to a reliable computer and internet connection, including a working camera and microphone. Our team will provide guidance and support to help volunteers become confident using the systems required for training and service delivery.
**Is there a financial contribution? **
The Crisis Supporter training program is subsidised by the generous support of our donors. To help cover part of the training costs, we ask volunteers to make a financial contribution toward the program.
We understand that this may not be possible for everyone, and scholarships may be available. If this is a barrier, we encourage you to reach out to discuss options with our team.
**What are the benefits of volunteering at Lifeline Ballarat? **
Develop new skills and knowledge that support both personal and professional growth
Be there for someone in crisis during a moment when support truly matters
Become part of a nationwide community of compassionate and like-minded volunteers
Build strong communication and listening skills that support your personal and professional relationships
Develop confidence using digital systems and technology through training and ongoing support
Access training, programs, and support through Uniting Vic. Tas, one of the largest community service providers in Victoria and Tasmania
Receive ongoing professional development, supervision, and support from an experienced team throughout your volunteering journey
Know that every shift you contribute helps make a real difference in someone’s life
**What are the requirements? **
Be 18 years or older
Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or hold a valid visa without study restrictions
Complete a Police Check and Working with Children Check
Attend an online Information and Selection Interview (via Zoom)
Complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment prior to acceptance into the training program. As Lifeline is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), participants are required to meet Level 3 LLN requirements for this nationally accredited training. This assessment helps us understand how best to support you in your learning, and we aim to create an inclusive and supportive training environment.
Make a financial contribution towards the nationally accredited Crisis Support Workplace Training course. Payment plans and scholarship options may be available.
What are the next steps? Attend an information session and from there apply via Better Impact (link will be provided at the information session)
The Nationally recognised training is delivered on behalf of Lifeline Australia- Lifeline RTO #88036 Course code: CHC5500113 Crisis Support Skill Set.