Do you remember what it felt like when you were at your lowest, and someone told you it would be okay? That one person can change everything.
In early 2027, Tanya's Home is opening our first home for mothers working to recover, rebuild and bring their children home. Many have just come through rehab, court or family violence. We're looking for warm, steady people to be part of life in the house and show these mums that a better future is possible.
Lived experience is especially valued here, but it isn't the only way in. If you're studying in a related field, thinking about a career in community services, or simply have compassion and a willingness to learn, we'd love to hear from you. You'll be mentored and supported every step of the way, and you'll be part of something special from the very beginning.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Spending time at the house as a friendly, steady presence for the mums staying there
- Joining in shared routines like meals, check-in groups and everyday house life
- Listening, encouraging and, if you have lived experience, sharing it where it helps
- Empowering mums to make their own choices rather than taking control
- Following house policies and letting our Founder know when a mum needs more support. This isn't a counselling, crisis-response or case-management role, so you'll never be left handling those on your own
What You'll Gain:
- Hands-on experience in a supported home for mothers in recovery
- Understanding of recovery, trauma, Child Protection and reunification, learned alongside people who have lived it
- Skills in peer support, active listening and supporting people through hard times
- Mentoring, regular debriefs and support from our Founder
- Experience you can talk about in job applications, interviews and your studies
- Being part of a new home from day one
Who We'd Love to Hear From:
- People with lived experience of Child Protection, addiction, family violence or reunification who are now in a stable place
- Students in community services, social work, psychology, counselling, mental health or related fields
- People considering a career in community services
- People returning to work who want to build confidence and experience
- Anyone with compassion, patience and a willingness to learn
Give What You Can:
There's no minimum time commitment. Some volunteers might pop in for an hour, others might give a few hours a week. You'll be part of a team, so every bit of time helps. The home is expected to open in early 2027.
Keeping Everyone Safe:
Because we support vulnerable mums, you'll need a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check before you start, and we can help you through both. You'll also have a friendly chat with us, a reference check and an induction. The house address is shared only after screening. If you have lived experience, we ask that you're in a stable place in your own life before supporting others.
About Tanya's Home:
Tanya's Home Limited is a Victorian charity founded from lived experience. We support mothers affected by addiction, family violence and other complex circumstances who are involved with Child Protection, and help them keep or reunify with their children. Our support includes advocacy, Children's Court support, treatment and rehabilitation pathways, peer support, transport and emergency essentials. We hold DGR and PBI status and are preparing to open our first supported home for mothers. We're small, growing and full of heart, and our volunteers are a real part of the team.
Your Impact:
You'll help a mum feel less alone during one of the hardest times of her life. Your presence could be what keeps her going until the day her children come home.
How to Apply:
Apply through SEEK Volunteer, or contact Georgina at [email protected] or on 0437 710 663. Not sure if you're the right fit? Apply anyway, or just get in touch for a chat. We'd love to hear from you.
We're recruiting for several roles at the moment and some overlap, so take a look at our other Tanya's Home opportunities on SEEK Volunteer too. If more than one appeals to you, let us know when you apply.