Refugee & Asylum Seeker Service Volunteer

The Vinnies Refugee & Asylum Seeker Service (VRASS) in Kilburn, Adelaide provides support, practical assistance, referrals, advocacy, and a welcoming, culturally safe environment for our companions- refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants who are experiencing hardship and challenges.

The service assists companions across a broad range of areas, including legal matters, housing, employment services, resume preparation, job application support, emergency relief funding, vocational education, financial counselling, pop-up health clinics and referrals, dental and optometry services, medical support, and English language classes.

As a Service Volunteer, you will work alongside staff and fellow volunteers to provide administrative and practical support to companions. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families as they navigate settlement and other challenges.

Key responsibilities may include the following but not limited to:-

• Welcome and respond to companions and stakeholders enquiries via telephone, email, and in person.
• Interview and assess the needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants accessing the service.
• Utilise interpreter services (via telephone) where required to facilitate effective communication.
• Accurately and confidentially record client information and maintain documentation.
• Advocate for companions and assist in identifying practical solutions to complex issues, particularly those relating to Centrelink and Services SA.
• Provide emergency assistance in accordance with service guidelines, including food vouchers, clothing vouchers, furniture assistance, utility bill payments, and other approved support.
• Refer companions to internal services where appropriate, including English Conversation Classes, budgeting and financial counselling, job readiness support, concessions assistance, and housing support.
• Refer companions to external services and community organisations where appropriate, including health and mental health services, legal assistance, employment, and training providers.
• Work collaboratively with staff, the Kilburn Community Centre team, and other volunteers.
• Update forms, templates, and electronic records as required.
• Maintain organised electronic and paper filing systems.
• Participate in fundraising and community engagement activities where appropriate.
• Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and culturally safe working relationships with companions, staff, and volunteers.

We are seeking volunteers who are compassionate, respectful, culturally aware, and committed to supporting people from diverse backgrounds. Strong communication skills, empathy, reliability, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are highly valued. Previous experience in community services is welcome but not essential, as training and ongoing support will be provided.