What do volunteers do?

Volunteers working with the Office of the Public Advocate (OPA) help us to achieve our ultimate goal: to uphold the rights and interests of people with a disability and work to eliminate abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Over 600 Victorians generously volunteer their time to work with OPA in one of three programs:

Community Visitors Program
Independent Third Persons Program
Community Guardianship Program

If you are considering taking on a challenging, rewarding volunteer role that allows you to make a noticeable difference in the lives of others, please register your interest here.

OPA volunteers have unique responsibilities. Volunteers in each program operate under specific legislation, and OPA staff provide thorough training, guidance, and ongoing support to each volunteer.
 

Current volunteer need

We are always looking for more volunteers. At the moment we are particularly looking for Community Visitors in the Southern and Eastern Suburbs, Eastern Gippsland and Loddon Mallee. Community Guardians are needed in the Eastern Suburbs and Gippsland while Independent Third Persons are needed in the Western Suburbs and Eastern Gippsland.

 

Volunteer roles with OPA

Community Visitors visit Victorian accomodation facilities for people with a disability or mental illness to monitor and report on the adequacy of services provided, and talk to residents to  ensure they are being cared for with dignity and respect.

Independent Third Persons (ITPs)
assist people with a cognitive disability or mental illness during interviews or when making formal statements to Victoria Police. They help facilitate communication and ensure people with a disability are not disadvantaged.

Community Guardians act as independent guardians for Victorians with a disability who cannot make decisions for themselves. Community Guardians, help them make personal and lifestyle decisions in their best interests.