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Cassandra's Compass

Volunteering in Aged Care

How to get started, where to connect, and what you need to know — your guide to volunteering with older Australians

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Volunteering in aged care is one of the most meaningful and impactful things you can do. Many older Australians — particularly those living with dementia — experience profound loneliness and social isolation. A volunteer visit, a shared activity, or simply sitting and listening can transform someone's day. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started.

Aged Care & Dementia Volunteer Services

Dementia Australia — Volunteer Program

Dementia Support · National

  • •Phone and online support line volunteer
  • •Education program facilitator
  • •Community awareness activities
1800 100 500

Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA)

Aged Care · National

  • •Referral to local provider volunteer programs
  • •Workforce information and career support
1300 222 721

Volunteer Australia — Aged Care & Health

Volunteering Gateway · National

  • •Search all aged care and health volunteering by postcode
  • •Register your availability and skills

Carer Gateway — Volunteer Support

Carer Support · National

  • •Respite volunteer companion visits
  • •Support group facilitation assistance
  • •Transport volunteer
1800 422 737

OPAN — Older Persons Advocacy Network

Aged Care Advocacy · National

  • •Community volunteer advocacy support
  • •Awareness and rights education
1800 700 600

St Vincent de Paul Society

Community & Aged Care · National — all states

  • •Aged care facility visitor volunteer
  • •Home visiting and companionship
  • •Meals and transport support
13 18 12

Red Cross Australia

Community & Aged Care · National

  • •Telecross program — daily check-in phone calls to isolated older adults
  • •Community visitors scheme
  • •Social support programs
1800 RED CROSS

Meals on Wheels Australia

Home Care Support · National — state-based

  • •Meal delivery volunteer (driver)
  • •Social visit and welfare check during delivery
  • •Kitchen preparation assistance
Contact your local state service

Requirements may vary by state and organisation. Always confirm specific requirements with the organisation before commencing. Supported by: Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth), Aged Care Act 2024 (Cth) (commenced 1 November 2025), and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Knowledge doesn't just inform care — it transforms it. Every thing you learn about dementia, every framework you understand, every skill you build, translates directly into better moments for the person in front of you. That is why education in aged care is not optional. It is the most powerful act of care we have.

— Cassandra's Compass

Verified against official sources on 2 October 2026

For educational and care-planning purposes only — not professional medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified health professional. Proudly Australian. Content informed by Dementia Australia.

Content is reviewed on an ongoing basis against current Australian clinical guidelines, legislation and regulatory standards — if you believe something may be out of date, please let us know.

🌏 We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.

© 2026 Dementia By Compass (ABN 72 956 792 944), trading as Cassandra's Compass. All rights reserved.

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