School Holiday Volunteer Program

The School Holiday Volunteer Program began in 2019 to support young people seeking volunteering experience in a healthcare environment.

The program runs during end-of-term school breaks throughout the year, excluding the Christmas holiday period.

Students take part in three consecutive days of volunteering, including an orientation session. During this time, they are paired with experienced volunteers and are expected to mirror the role, tasks, and level of care provided by our volunteers as they rotate through a variety of departments (subject to availability). This includes both clinical and non-clinical settings, offering a broad view of healthcare and potential career pathways.

Clinical areas may include the Emergency Department, Discharge Lounge, inpatient wards, clinics, Palliative Care, and Residential Aged Care.
Non-clinical areas may include Volunteer Services, People and Culture, Health Information Services, and the Education Department.
Students may also have the opportunity to assist with Foundation and Fundraising events, if scheduled during their placement.

Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate of participation outlining the number of volunteer hours completed.

Participation is limited to two School Holiday Programs per student (a total of six days), to ensure the opportunity is accessible to as many students as possible.
This timeframe also allows students applying for the La Trobe University Aspire Program to exceed the 24-hour volunteering requirement.

Due to limited places available in each program, early application is strongly recommended. Applications will be accepted on a first-in basis, regardless of the advertised cut-off date.

For more information about the School Holiday Volunteer Program, please contact the Volunteer Services team on 5454 7639 or email  [email protected]

To apply, please complete and return the form below.
Volunteer application form

Dates

2026 program - application dates to be confirmed

Term 1
Tuesday 7 April 2026 – Thursday 9 April 2026
Monday 13 April 2026 – Wednesday 15 April 2026

Term 2

Monday 29 June 2026 – Wednesday 1July 2026
Monday 6 July 2026 – Wednesday 8 July 2026

Term 3
Monday 21 September 2026 – Wednesday 23 September 2026
Monday 28 September 2026 – Wednesday 30 September 2026

*Submitting applications for term programs in advance is recommended so as not to miss out.