A Beginner’s Guide to Sustainability and Environmental Volunteering in Australia

In my last blog post, I shared tips on finding a career in the environment and sustainability sectors. This time, I want to explore another powerful way to make an impact through volunteering.

Volunteering is a great way to give back, learn new skills, and meet people who share your values. It can also boost your confidence and sense of purpose while making a real difference.

I know what it feels like to be the nervous, shy first-time volunteer, and I’ve also stood on the other side as the organiser welcoming and guiding volunteers. For me, there’s real joy in working alongside others toward a shared purpose, offering my time and skills to organisations that often rely on volunteers because funding for paid staff isn’t always available.

History shows us that so many social movements began with people simply raising their hands to volunteer. It’s a reminder that change often starts small, when people like you and me willing to show up.

Here are some reasons why people like to volunteer:

• Connecting with like minded folk on a cause
• Getting involved in your community
• Learning new skills
• Sharing knowledge and talents with others
• Gaining experience in a field to help find a job and other opportunities
• Growing your network
• Assisting a cause or an organisation who may not have funding for paid labour
• It feels good, plus studies show volunteering can make us happier and even live longer 

Where to find volunteer roles in sustainability and environmental sectors

There are so many incredible causes to volunteer for in the sustainability and environmental space, but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. A good first step is to look up organisations, events, or initiatives you admire. Check their websites, social media, or reach out directly to see if they need volunteers.

If you’re unsure where to begin, try groups like Conservation Volunteers Australia (they even have an easy-to-use app with a a fun zero waste challenge on it too), Friends of the Earth, Landcare, or Climate for Change. Local initiatives such as Toy Libraries, Libraries of Things, Tool Libraries, Kitchen Libraries, Repair Cafes, Hubs and Labs, Food Co-ops and local Op Shops are also fantastic ways to get involved in the circular economy. 

For a broader search, visit Volunteering Australia. Their website has a search function to find opportunities near you as well as plenty of information about the benefits of volunteering. You can also find listings on Seek Volunteer, join Facebook groups dedicated to volunteering in your city, or even post in local community groups to discover opportunities. Look out for sustainability and environmental festivals and events as they also rely on volunteers. 

As you start volunteering, you’ll meet big-hearted people who’ve been giving their time for years. These folk will often connect you to even more causes, groups, and events that align with your passion.

What can a volunteer role look like?

Volunteer roles can be as diverse as the causes themselves. You might find yourself bringing snacks, posting on social media, customer services, repairing, collecting nurdles from a beach, directing traffic at an event, answering emails, or entering data into a spreadsheet. The opportunities are many and varied, so there’s usually something to suit every skill set and comfort level.

Importantly, volunteering doesn’t always need to be face-to-face or physically demanding. If you live with a disability or have mobility challenges, let organisers know. Most will do their best to find a role that works for you.

Avoiding volunteer burnout

Volunteer burnout is very real. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to step back, take a break, or even decide not to return if you need to. The environmental and sustainability movements rely on passionate volunteers, but your wellbeing matters most. You can’t live your most sustainable life if you lose your balance. Set healthy boundaries, and never feel pressured by organisers to take on tasks that make you uncomfortable.

Volunteering is not only a way to support the planet but is also a deeply rewarding experience. By giving your time and energy to environmental causes whether it’s tree planting, beach clean-ups, wildlife care, or community education, you become part of a collective effort to protect and restore our natural world while building stronger communities. I find great joy in connecting with like-minded people, learning new skills, and knowing my actions, however small, contribute to something much bigger. It’s a reminder that caring for the Earth and each other can be both purposeful and uplifting.

photo by pexels