Most major organisations offer online or email statements/billing options.  If you haven’t already made the switch this is a really simple step you can take to reduce your impact on the environment. It’s amazing just how much paper is used to produce statements.

Ask your financial institution to switch you to online statements now.

1. It’s convenient! You can view or print your e-statements any time you choose.
2. It’s simple! You will receive an email when your e-statement is ready to view online.  
3. It’s fast! Your e-statement is available before paper statements get through snail mail.
4. It’s secure! Your e-statement will not be lost or stolen in the mail.
5. It’s environmentally friendly! Reduces paper waste.

We know we can all do more. Embrace the change and take your first and simple step towards reducing your paper consumption, register for eStatments today.

Ross

Environment Management System Committee Chair

Now there is an easier way to fundraise for your local not-for-profit club, group or charity- the Community Reward Account.

This account takes the average annual balance of all Community Reward Accounts nominating your club, group or charity as the beneficiary, and donates up to 1.5% of this balance directly to your registered organisation!

How to benefit:

1. Find out about becoming a recipient for the Community Reward Account*.
2. Register your club, group or charity as a recipient.
3. Encourage all of your members and supporters to open an account to support your club, group or charity.
4. At the end of each financial year the amount raised is deposited straight to your registered organisation.

What your supporters need to do:

1. Open a Community Reward Account.
2. Select your club, group or charity to receive the benefits.
3. Start saving!
4. Be happy knowing they are supporting their favourite club, group or charity.

We know it works:

Over the past few years many clubs, groups and charities have been recipients of this account with great success.  In 2011 approx. $150,000 was donated to registered organisations.

This could easily be your not-for-profit club, group or charity!

Luke – Product & Segment Analyst

I am holding a Fundraiser movie night in the coming weeks at the Gawler Cinema on Monday13^thof February.  So, if you’re in Adelaide or the Gawler region come along. It’s at 630pm for a 730pm start. The movie is the Descendants with George Clooney! Tickets cost $30 and must be purchased before the evening through myself at ajoy@communitycps.com.au

Come alone, with a friend or bring a group ! This is a great opportunity to catch up, see a great movie and help raise much needed funds http://www.facebook.com/events/222761897810695/?context=create

Thank you to everyone for their support. Hope to see you. ^AJ

Now is the time to take some precautionary steps to protect your home and loved ones before a bushfire threat develops and ensure your Home Building and Contents Insurance is up to date and that it provides enough cover to replace your home and all its contents should the unthinkable happen.

Here are a few simple measures you can take:

• Regularly clean leaves from gutters and downpipes;
• Keep woodpiles and other flammable materials well away from the house;
• Trim any long grass or dense scrub near your property;
• If possible, have a 20 metre safety buffer around your home free of rubbish;
• Take time with your family to sit down and develop a plan, ensuring all family members know what to do in the event of a fire;
• Consider purchasing a portable pump to use from your swimming pool or water tank;
• Have a first aid kit and protective clothing ready should fire approach. 

These simple steps can make all the difference in protecting your home, business and family from a fire. And, if you are unsure whether your insurance is up to date or if it provides enough cover, talk to us or use our Home Building Replacement Cost Calculator or Home Contents Replacement Cost Calculator which can help you estimate the full replacement value of your home and contents.

Stay safe. ^Derek, Insurance Manager

Wagga Mutual in partnership with Xceler8 Fitness Centre, are proud to announce the winners of the 2011/2012 Wagga Mutual Credit Union Junior Sports Scholarship.

The program is designed to help local junior athletes aged 12 to 17 years take the next step in their chosen field of sport. Following the success of the inaugural program in 2010/2011, this year more than 100 scholarship applications were received.

First prize, a sponsorship package valued at $2,700 including an account at Wagga Mutual Credit Union with $1000, was awarded to Kaitlin Jeffries. The 17-year-old taekwondo specialist is a rising star who was recently selected to compete at the Taekwondo World Titles in Czechoslovakia.

The following scholarship winners also received sponsorship funds from Wagga Mutual to be used for their future sporting development:-

James Hay – athletics national champion, Jake Brooker – junior cyclist, Caleb Noble –local Ganmain triathlete and Andrew Emery – talented junior AFL footballer.

The program was an outstanding initiative that supports the development of local junior sporting talent. We are very proud to be associated with Xceler8 and to put our support behind the scholarship program. We are committed to helping the Wagga Wagga community grow and this program is one way we can do this, by offering some of our community’s most talented junior sportspeople a helping hand to pursue their sporting careers.

Congratulations to everyone and we wish you all every success in your future sporting endeavours.

Andrew – Wagga Mutual Regional Manager

The Scheme is becoming increasingly popular, particularly with first homebuyers and young families. Because buyers only need to borrow the money for the house and not the land, it reduces the deposit required substantially. Without the Scheme the dream of owning a home would remain elusive for many.

As a mutually owned organisation housing affordability is an issue very close to our hearts, and we are pleased that, together with the ACT Government, we can help more people to break out of the rent-cycle and get into their own home sooner.

So far we have approved land rent loans to the value of $40 million, with loans advanced approaching $10million.

Wayne – Chief Financial Officer

To participate in the Leadership Challenge I need to fundraise $3,300.

The Leadership Challenge entails participating in over 100 volunteering hours with local Fijian communities, teaching sound economic practices to ensure these villages are self sustainable. Concepts such saving & budgeting are not widely understood in some communities, and my involvement will assist these locals with a positive economic future and ‘make them smile’.

As part of my fundraising I will be raffling off a BBQ, you can purchase a ticket at our Salisbury Branch.

All profits will be donated to CUFA & the Fijian Leadership Challenge.

Want to help online?

Please share, retweet or post this story to your facebook and spread the word. You can also donate securely online, donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

Donate here!

Thankyou in advance for your generosity and assistance.

Angelique Joy

Are you someone who has heaps of energy, loves people and lives to be in a social environment? Tick all the boxes and be a day care assistant for aged care residents!

Part of your day includes organising and taking part in social outings, art & craft sessions, body & mind aerobics and general entertainment gathering!

When you’re required:

Weekdays, negotiable times.

Skills required:

Enthusiasm is key! Any training or support will be provided by the Hunter Volunteer Centre.

How to find out more or register:

You can register your interest or find out more here.

We are looking for someone who has great listening and communication skills to be used in a legal setting.

You will assist people with intellectual disabilities and become a communication point between them and their lawyers and any other people involved in their case. Your communication and people skills will assist people with intellectual disabilities understand what is happening and what is required of them.

You will play a key role in the legal process and are of your dealings will require a degree of confidentiality.

When you’re required:

Weekdays or when required.

Skills required:

Listening and communication skills are essential. No legal experience necessary.

How to find out more or register:

You can register and interest or find out more here.

(please note all positions have been filled)

Overview:

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for a variety of roles including donation collection, merchandise sales, golf cart taxi drivers or you could even get to be the MASCOT at this years CLIPSAL 500!

Not only will you be supporting a great cause but you will also get the chance to take in the race car action and even watch the live concerts after your shift!

When you’re required:

Thursday, 1^st March 2012  7.30am-2pm or 1.30pm-8pm

Friday, 2^nd March 2012  7.30am-2pm or 1.30pm-8pm

Saturday, 3^rd March 2012  7.30am-2pm or 1.30pm-8pm

Sunday, 4^th March 2012  7.30am-2pm or 1.30pm-8pm

Skills required:

You must be 18 or over to apply and be prepared to have a great day!

(please note all positions have been filled)

It’s that moment in the New Year that so many Australians dread – the credit card statement that clearly spells out how much you’ve spent at Christmas.

Many consumers get caught up in the Christmas spirit and arrive in the New Year with credit card balances they simply can’t pay off.

If you’ve woken up to the holiday debt hangover, you should focus on avoiding high interest charges, which are often much higher on credit cards, by clearing the debt as quickly as possible. If you can, clear the balance completely when due, but if you don’t have savings or the cash flow to do this, then investigate alternatives such as refinancing the debt at a lower interest rate.

Some might have the capacity to redraw on their home loan, where the interest rate is much lower than a credit card, or consider taking out a personal loan. For this strategy to succeed it is vital for consumers to increase loan repayments so the credit card portion of the owed amount is cleared as quickly as possible. Make a mini budget that allows you to repay the holiday debt over a few months, otherwise you wind up stretching a $2000 debt over a 20-year home loan, which will cost more in interest and extend the life of the debt.

While you’re clearing the balance, be careful about how you use your credit card and only spend what you can afford to repay at the end of the month.

If you’re facing back-to-school expenses, then take advantage of any interest-free period on your credit card, provided you can pay the outstanding amount at the end of that period. If you don’t think you can do this, consider cheaper sources of credit, such as the home loan, but like the Christmas debt, you need to increase your repayments.

While clearing the 2011 debt, consumers should also focus on preparing for the 2012 festive season. If you have landed in January with a nasty credit card debt, the important thing is to avoid the same thing happening next year.

So if you know that you usually spend, say, $1500 at Christmas, then set up a Christmas savings account where you make a $30 weekly deposit and are discouraged from withdrawing funds early.

By preparing a plan and sticking to it and spreading the cost over the year you can avoid the pain of a large lump sum cost at Christmas.

Wayne – Chief Financial Officer

Things you should know>

The HLKFS have to be presented in the same format and layout regardless of the lender, and are designed to enable consumers to easily compare home loans provided by different lenders.

The HLKFS are prepared based on consumers’ individual requirements for their loan amount, loan term and interest type (fixed or variable) and summarises information about the loan, including:

• The interest rate (nominal and comparison rate i.e. including fees)
• Total amount to be repaid (including loan amount and fees)
• Amount repaid for every $1 borrowed
• Establishment and ongoing fees
• Repayments per month and per year

They also include information about how your monthly repayments will change if interest rates increased by one per cent and how much sooner you could repay the loan if you increased your repayments by $200 per month.

I’m pleased to see initiatives like this implemented that help people find the best product for their personal circumstances. Every lender uses a different language to describe its products and features it can be quite difficult for people to compare them directly to one another.

Buying a home is a big decision for most Australians, and they will spend a good time of their adult life paying it off – so it is very important to pick the right product. We feel the HLKFS are a great tool, empowering consumers in their choice of product without the bells and whistles distracting from the actual basic features of the loan.

If you’re thinking about taking out a home loan, make sure you ask for a HLKFS from several lenders to enable you to shop around for the best deal. Financial institutions are also required to make the HLKFS available on their website if they provide information about home loans or enable home loan applications online. You’ll find ours here:-

http://www.communitycps.com.au/calculators/homeloankeyfactsheet.aspx

 Wayne – Chief Financial Officer

Once you submit your interest in a volunteering role, you will be contacted by the volunteering organisation who will inform you of the next steps to be taken. Some positions require an interview process before selection to ensure this position will not only benefit the organisation but you too!

If a police check is required the organisation will assist you in sourcing the correct application. Usually Police checks are required for regular volunteering roles with children or the disabled, one off volunteering roles do not normally require a police check.

During or after your volunteering experience we will contact you for feedback on your volunteering experience so we can share on our blog and social media how rewarding volunteering really is.

Remember anyone can volunteer, and if you cannot find a role that suits please contact us and we will help find one specific to you.

View current Volunteer Vacancies.

^MM

You may have made a certain New Year resolution such as getting out of debt or buying a house, or you simply may want to ensure you are receiving the maximum benefits out of your current situation.  Either way, regular reviews of your bank accounts can provide you with valuable extra savings.

If the New Year has also coincided with a change to your personal and lifestyle circumstances, reviewing your bank accounts is even more important. You may have started a new job, bought or are buying a house, started or plan on starting a family or be retiring from work.  

These, and similar changes, may alter your day to day banking behaviour and needs.  For example, they  may alter the way you transact on your account, the amount and frequency of deposits and direct credits which you receive, or if withdrawals and direct debits coming from your account.  This could change the amount of fees you are charged and the interest you may earn.

Reviewing your accounts will ensure that you:

• have the right account for your banking needs;
• are not paying any unnecessary bank fees; and
• have the best savings options to maximise the interest which you can earn.

To get started, review your bank statements for the past few months.  This can be easily done by reviewing your transaction history or e-statements within Internet Banking.  Check to see what fees you have been charged at the end of each month.  If you have been charged excess fees and/or don’t understand the fees you have been charged, contact us so we can explain how you can minimise your fees each month and check to ensure the account(s) you have best suits your current needs.

Interested in maximising the interest you earn?  Many people hold large, excess balances in everyday access accounts.  The nature of these accounts means they pay very little, if any, interest.  There are many at call deposit products offering a higher rate of interest and better return for your money.

Speak to us today to see if you can get more out of your everyday banking and maximise the interest you can earn.

Luke -  Product & Segment Analyst

Things you should know>

Over the holiday season many of our members will be thinking about their finances and making New Year’s resolutions to improve them.

We have highlighted the top 10 investment tips to help meet your longer term goals.

Top 10 investment tips

1. Clarify your investment goals – having a clear understanding of your goals will help you select the most appropriate investments to achieve them.
2. Pay yourself first – Set aside some of your pay packet for your longer term goals.  List all your expenses then work out how much you can afford to save each month.  With the surplus put this money aside first so that you don’t spend it on other miscellaneous items.  That way you will be able to meet your longer term goals.
3. Set up an automatic payment – to help you organise your contributions to your investment(s) so you save automatically!
4. Invest your savings to grow – make the most of your savings by investing them.  The type of assets you invest in will depend on your financial needs and objectives.
5. Harness the power of compound interest – each dollar you invest earns a return.  If you reinvest that return, it can earn more dollars, allowing your investment the potential to grow much faster.
6. Diversify your wealth – spread your risk across each of the main investment types (for example shares, property, fixed interest and cash) with an aim to achieve more consistent returns.  In other words, ‘don’t put all your eggs into one basket’.
7. Choose tax advantaged investments (not tax driven investments) – consider sound investments that can also offer you tax benefits.
8. Time in, not timing the market – it’s not timing the market that’s key, but rather the amount of time you’re in the market.
9. Get some advice – speak to an expert who can help assess your needs and goals.
10. Do something now – the sooner you get your investment started the sooner you’ll achieve your goals.

Happy Investing!

Michael – Practice Development Manager

Investment Performance:  Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns as returns may differ from and be more or less volatile than past returns. The ten tips were sourced from Colonial First State www.colonialfirststate.com.au  Eastwoods Wealth Management Pty Ltd,  ABN  17 008 167 002, AFSL  237853. Things you should know>

The Women’s Community Centre is looking for an enthusiastic volunteer with good communication skills and specific knowledge and experience about guitar playing and instruction to teach women basic guitar.

When your required: Term is from February to April to 2012 with negotiated times.

Location: 64 Nelson Street, STEPNEY, SA, Australia, 5069

An exciting opportunity to teach the art of playing the guitar!

To register your interest, click here.

We are in need of passionate painters who have knowledge and experience with different styles of painting such as oil, acrylic, watercolours and would love to be part of a fun team to teach these styles to women at the Women’s Community Centre.

Term is from February to April to 2012 with negotiated times.

Location: 64 Nelson Street, COLLEGE PARK, SA, Australia, 5069

When your required:

1 term – February – April 2012. Times are negoitable.

If you want to be part of this creative team please express your interest by registering below.

To register your interest, click here.

We are looking for a motivational person who would like to assist in tutoring youths from year 6 to 12 with their homework!

A variety of subjects are available, including English, Maths, Science, Arts, Marketing, IT and Writing Skills.

Skills Required:

A teaching background is desired but not essential.

An opportunity not only to assist, but build positive relationships and commitment to helping young people achieve their goals.

Location: 2 Rosevear Place, AINSLIE, ACT, Australia, 2602

When you’re required:

Tuesdays and/or Thursdays 3.30pm – 5.00pm

To register your interest, click here.

Overview

Do you have a HRC (Heavy Combined) Drivers license, over 18 and want to assist the elderly?

Baptist Community Service is looking for Volunteers to drive and assist Aged Care residents on and off the bus. A wonderful role that will allow you to make an impact and friendships along the way! Various times available.

Location: 111 Carnegie Crescent, RED HILL, ACT, Australia, 2603

When you’re required:

Recurring role, various times available.

To register your interest, click here.

Since our partnership commenced in 2007 we have been able to purchase a car for RDNS through our foundation grant to help nurses get out to do their home visits and our staff have been volunteering each year to pack food hampers for disadvantaged families.

This year was no different with an amazing 400 Christmas hampers packed! A big thanks to all our staff involved!  ^VR

The pre-Christmas spending season traditionally sees Australians give their credit cards a solid workout. Last year we collectively spent $3 trillion more on our cards in November and December than in any of the previous ten months.*

Rather than undo all the healthy budgeting efforts made during the year, some simple strategies can help you keep credit under control over the festive season.

Maintain a sense of perspective

Rather than get swept up in a frenzy of festive season spending, aim to maintain your regular financial regime.

Follow Santa’s lead

To avoid overspending, take a tip from the big man in red himself. Make a list. Then check it twice. Allocate a spending limit for each person you plan to buy a gift for.

Shop smart

Hit the stores early to snare the best deals on gifts. Doing your gift shopping online is an easy way to make cost comparisons.

Cash is king

If you’re buying big ticket items this Christmas aim to pay with cash. And don’t be afraid to ask for a discount.

With your finances in good shape and card debt under control, you’re well placed to celebrate the festive season knowing you can take advantage of investment opportunities in 2012.

Happy Holidays everyone! ^Michael, Practice Development Manager

*This publication has been complied for Licensee Select by Securitor Financial Group ABN 48 009 189 495 AFSL 240687.  Things you should know.

Studies also show most people are interested and motivated to volunteer but when its gets down to it, it’s all too hard.^

I’m sure, like me that so many others have always liked the idea of volunteering and have long meant to get around to signing up but it’s always one of those things we leave until next month, next year, once the house is renovated, once things have calmed down at work. Having witnessed myself now how big an impact such small actions can have emphasised to me that the longer we wait, the less we get done.

There is so much that can be done. Volunteering is no longer just about shaking a collection box (not that there is anything wrong with that). The opportunities are endless. As a staff member I have been fortunate to get involved in some great volunteer opportunities through our Community Volunteer program which, helps match you to a volunteer program here in Australia, overseas, long-term, short-term or once-off opportunites.

Our Community Volunteer program is open to everyone. You can check out what opportunities we have available on this blog and register or register your interest and we’ll let you know when something is available. We’ll do the hard work for you!

Are you motivated to volunteer and help others in need but find it all a bit too hard – where do you start? Let us know what’s stopping you from volunteering and we’ll see if we can make the process easier for you. We’d love to hear from you. We’re listening. ^CS

 *Volunteering Australia Annual Review 09/10 ^Square Holes Study 07/11

Overview

We are in need of a very merry Santa to appear at Christmas Parties!

Santa Suit will be supplied, no experience necessary just bring your passion for spreading Christmas cheer for all to hear!

A great opportunity to get involved with all ages and see everyone’s face light up when Santa comes to town!

When you’re required:

Location & Time

Monday 12th December

• “Global Connections” (multicultural group) Christmas Party, Maitland Neighbourhood Centre, Rutherford Community Centre 11.20am to 11.45am
• “Stories in the Shop” (preschool reading program)at Woodberry 11.30pm to 2.30pm.

Wednesday 14th December

• Playtime (preschool ages playgroup) 11.20am – 12.30pm

Friday 16th December

• Daycare (activities for frail, aged or impaired) Christmas Luncheon 11.30am – 12.30pm.  Maitland Area, Hunter Valley NSW

(please note this opportunity has expired)

This blog and our facebook and Twitter accounts form what I’d like to call the ‘We Are Listening Network’, giving our members and the general public the opportunity to interact with us and keep connected with what is happening in our community.

Through this network you can also find out about the latest finance news, financial advice and information. It also is a platform to share with you the latest volunteer opportunities that you can participate in, to help your local community. Most importantly we are available to listen and have a chat about what is important to you.

Our values are about putting our members and clients first and we have a great team of committed people to ensure we provide the necessary level of support. We are part of the community and the community is part of us. So we don’t want this to be ‘just another corporate blog’. You will find contributors from all of the regions in which we operate covering all facets of our member owned organisation.

We believe in people empowerment and share of voice and pledge to treat everyone’s opinions with respect. View our community guidelines.

Our ‘We Are Listening Network’ is here for you between 9am and 5pm (Australian Central Time) Monday to Friday, so please join us for a chat. If you urgently need to get in touch with us outside these times or you require personal assistance call us or drop into one of our branches.

As the CEO I take great pleasure in launching the We Are Listening network. I hope it’s a place you’ll enjoy contributing to and sharing your opinion. The Community CPS Group is one of the largest customer owned mutual in Australia. It’s your organisation, your community, and we’re listening. ^Robert

1. Security: treat it like you would your computer, ensure you have antivirus installed on your device. It contains a LOT of personal information, and you probably use it for online purchases or online banking you need to ensure you keep it safe.
2. Pins & Passwords: ensure you have a pin or password set on your device AND your SIM. This will ensure if your phone is lost that thieves cannot make phone calls from it.
3. WIFI & Bluetooth: ensure you are connecting to safe networks, try and use a network that is encrypted and requires a password to access it. And ensure you turn off Bluetooth when you are not using it. You would be surprise how clever thieves can be accessing your information via WIFI and Bluetooth networks.
4. Recycling your old phone: ensure that ALL information is completely removed from your phone before recycling it. Remember your phone contains a lot of personal information about you.
5. Foreign links or emails:  ensure you do not click on any unknown links or emails, it is likely they contain malicious software.
6. More than a phone: todays smartphones are almost like your wallet always keep it with you. They are also a form of computer and you should take all of the same precautions you would with your computer.
7. Stay within reputable websites: be cautious with your web surfing ensure you stay within reputable websites.

You can find out more smartphone and tablet security tips at scamwatch.gov.au

The Challenge commenced with measuring the current household carbon footprint, and then worked through weekly challenges to reduce electricity, water, petrol and waste consumption.

The winner of the 12 week long challenge was Tully Vorobioff and his family, with a special mention to Alison Ludriks for her efforts throughout the challenge.

When – Saturday 10th December between 10am and 4pm

Who (charity partner or credit union) MIX 106.3FM Special Kids Xmas Party

ACT staff will be volunteering their time to ensure these kids have an enjoyable time this festive season.

 This trend has occurred for a variety of reasons such as the difficulty in saving up such a large deposit, required to enter the home buyers market.

Parent Equity home loans are designed so parents, parents-in-law or step-parents can help their children purchase their own home by using the equity in their property.

Depending on how much a family member is willing to guarantee, the homebuyer could borrow up to 100 per cent of the purchase price as well as an additional 10 per cent of the price to help with the associated costs of the purchase, such as stamp duty and other fees.

Using theParent Equity home loans home buyers may be able to avoid paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), which can amount to thousands of dollars.  When the property increases in value or when the loan is sufficiently reduced, the guarantor (the parent) can be released from the loan.

The Parent Equity home loans is a great product to help enter the home buyers market. Current market conditions are ideal for first home buyers, particularly with low interest rates and a stagnant property market.

Overview

MS Australia needs your help to wrap Christmas presents for our Centro Christmas

Gift Wrapping Campaign. Gift Wrapping will take place in Raymond Terrace & Maitland Centre shopping centres for customers who wish to have a gift wrapped for a donation to MS Australia.

Volunteering is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, even more so during the giving period of Christmas. We encourage volunteers to register with a family member, friend or work colleague and if possible volunteer for more than one shift.

When you’re required:

Gift wrappers are required during shopping hours at the below locations:

Address: Cnr Sturgeon & Glenelg Streets, Raymond Terrace, NSW, 2324

Address: 405 High Street, Maitland, NSW, 2320

(please note this position is no longer available)

Country Hope 

Staff at Wagga Mutual have been working in close partnership with Country Hope and recently hosted a gift appeal in support of Country Hope’s Kids Christmas Party.

The appeal saw locals drop off well over 100 gifts  at the local Wagga, Collamon and Ganmain branches for the Children’s Christmas party, which show cases the true sprit of locals in the Wagga & Riverina area.

Location:

Wellington Square Park, East Perth

Time:

11:30am – 2.30pm

Overview

Are you passionate about animal welfare and want to make a difference by being involved?

Are you dedicated and willing to make a regular commitment to help animals – animals that have been displaced, abandoned and possibly neglected and abused?

If so, you may be just the person we are looking for to become an RSPCA NSW Volunteer.

Volunteers are an integral part of the RSPCA Wagga Wagga team and play an active part in supporting our work to improve the welfare of animals and protect them from cruelty and neglect.

There are many volunteer roles available in Wagga Wagga; some involving contact with animals, while others provide support without direct contact with animals. Opportunities exist to assist with animal care, administration, events, customer service and local community fundraising. (roles available may differ between shelters and branches).

 When you’re required:

This is a recurring opportunity.

Volunteer Branches

Volunteer branches are the backbone of the RSPCA work in regional NSW. Each branch is run exclusively by volunteers and plays a vital role in foster care and finding permanent homes for animals, desexing programs, support, fundraising initiatives in their local community – and much much more!

We accept volunteers who are over the age of 16 years (some branches accept volunteers over the age of 18 years). As this requirement may vary between branches, please check with your local RSPCA Branch regarding age requirements.

To register your interest, click here.

The aim of the event was to raise enough funds to send all South Australian teen’s to Senior Camp in Sydney in 2012.

The Luncheon was hosted by Wayne Phillips with special guest Matt Cowdry. Other special guests included Chad Cornes, Dean Brogan, Brent Reilly, Michael Doughty and Bernie Vince. Camp Quality CEO, Simon Rowntree, thanked Community CPS for our continued support and effort of building awareness through our community partnership.

The day was a huge success and again raised just over $15,000! We would like to say a big thank you to everyone for your support, commitment and fantastic efforts with this community partnership!

• Fundraising activities in your area
• Showing information about Country Hope
• Children’s Holiday Week casual Volunteers

Special function Volunteers

When your required:

This is a recurring opportunity.

To register your interest, click here.

• Requesting and completing an application form
• Attending an interview with Country Hope representatives
• Attending a Country Hope Carer Training Weekend

Being prepared to offer year round support to your Country Hope child (this is not a financial obligation)

When your required:

This is a recurring opportunity.

To register your interest, click here.

Overview

Guide visitors on the correct use of exhibits to ensure maximum engagement, communicate information about exhibits and programs and maintain an interactive and engaging atmosphere for all visitors at Questacon King Edward Terrace, Parkes, ACT

Requirements:

An Interest in Science & technology and good oral communication. A professional manner and neat appearance. Desire to learn educate. Interest in working with people of all ages, particularly children. Need to be available for at least one four hour shift per fortnight.

When you’re required:

Recurring opportunity 1 x 4 hour shift per fortnight.

To register your interest, click here.

Ruby Rose and Laos kids

Enhance the education of novice Buddhist monks in Luang Prabang as well as other members of the local community by teaching English, while learning about the local culture

Overview:

Laos is one of the most traditional countries in Asia, and offers some of the richest culture and history of the region.

Volunteering to teach English to novice monks and local community members in one of the country’s more historic regions is an incredibly rewarding way to connect with the real Laos and its people.

The volunteer project is based in Luang Prabang, a Unesco Heritage Site, which is known for its beauty, architecture and colour. Volunteers will have time off at weekends to explore the region and so can take a scenic boat trip up the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves, watch the sunset from atop Mount Phu Si, swim in the Kuang Si Waterfalls, marvel at the many temples, trek, raft or take an elephant tour.

This is the perfect way to explore one of the countries in Asia least tarnished by tourism.

When you’re required:

Various times and dates.

Skills Required:

English Language.

When you get there:

Volunteers will have their own room in a centrally located guesthouse. It has electricity and a variety of facilities are plentiful and nearby. Basic Lao and western food is supplied. In Luang Prabang laundry will be at your own expense.

Laos generally enjoys a mild, tropical climate, but it can get quite chilly in the cool season. Temperatures range from 10 – 40°C in the Mekong Valley, and may dip below zero in the mountains and on the Xieng Khouang and Bolaven Plateaus. There are three distinct seasons: cool from November-February; hot from March-May and the rainy season which lasts from June -October. Most people find the best time to visit from October-February; however the low season offers lush green landscapes in the rainy season and the colourful Lao New Year’s festival in April.

To register your interest, click here.

Novita require buddies to accompany the young participants of this program and provide mentoring, friendship and/or share their talents at one of more of these school holiday program days.

Skills Required:

Aged 14+, and a Working with Children Check or Working with Children National Police Certificate.

(please note all positions have now been filled)

Water, harvesting and alternative garden construction projects in indigenous communities

Overview:

Volunteers will travel to indigenous villages to assess and solve water shortage and unsustainable natural resources management issues, focusing on the design, construction, and installation of rainwater collection systems and vegetable gardens. The long term goal is to increase the quality of life throughout 27 villages across the Yasawa Island chain. Many of these villages experience severe water shortages, especially during the dry season, only cultivate root vegetables and have few sources of income. The project is run in partnership with local communities and The Yasawa Trust Foundation, who aim to improve the provision of basic needs in the Yasawa Islands. Based out of an idyllic beachside field camp, volunteers will be able to dive, snorkel, become immersed in Fijian culture, and explore other island chains on the weekend.

When you’re required:

Various times and dates.

Skills Required:

No previous experience or training is necessary as GVI staff is on the ground to supply second to none training and assistance throughout your program. Non-native English speakers should have near fluent use of the English language.

No training required though those with special training that may be an asset to the project can let us know when applying. Training will be supplied including an Introduction to Water Management Techniques and Technology, Fijian country history and Cultural introduction.

When you get there:

Volunteers will stay in a basic dormitory accommodation with other volunteers and project staff. There is a communal living area, kitchen and work area. Volunteers will assist with cleaning and cooking on rotation and will gather each evening for a daily de-brief and a briefing for the following day. Volunteers will travel to the local communities to work on a daily basis. Accommodations have cold running water and showers and limited electricity.

To register your interest, click here.