About Lifeline:

Lifeline offers a 24/7 crisis support phone service to the Australian community, which supports our vision of living in an Australia free of suicide. This would not be possible without the generosity of the people who volunteer as our Crisis Supporters.

About You!

No prior experience or qualifications are necessary to volunteer, as Lifeline Direct will provide comprehensive training to fulfil the role competently. As a Crisis Supporter with Lifeline Direct, you will take calls to provide short-term, one-off crisis support to people who are experiencing a crisis, so that no one has to face their darkest moments alone. * Please note: This volunteer role is based in Tamworth but is most suitable for people who can work remotely online.*

We would love to hear from you if you can:

• Demonstrate good communication and listening skills;

• Show empathy, openness to learning & feedback, and have a non-judgemental attitude;

• Successfully complete the nationally-recognised Lifeline Telephone Crisis Supporter Workplace Training program.

• Have interest in an ongoing commitment to Lifeline & you could volunteer for 4 hours a week once training is completed.

Being a volunteer crisis supporter will offer you the opportunity to:

• Develop your practical crisis support skills such as microskills & communication;

• Experience personal growth and development;

• Increase your self-awareness;

• Give back to the community;

• Learn how to safely discuss suicide and support people to manage their own safety where needed;

• Connect with like-minded caring, respectful, empathetic individuals;

• Pursue further career opportunities in this area.

Training Commitment:

To become a Lifeline Accredited Crisis Supporter you must successfully complete 3 stages of training.

Stage 1: The initial Crisis Support Worker Training (CSWT) covers ten topics, delivered over 7 – 12 weeks, depending on the training group selected. Completion of the Crisis Support Worker Training (CSWT) is a requirement to become an Accredited Crisis Supporter Volunteer. Attendance is mandatory at all training days to successfully complete program.

Lifeline Direct Centres deliver the accredited training CHCSS00113 Crisis Support Skill Set on behalf of Lifeline Australia RTO 88036, and the CSWT includes the three Units of Competency listed below:

• CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
• CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
• CHCCCS028 Provide client-centred support to people in crisis

Stage 2: Requires at least 16 phone hours of placement over a 2-month period.

Stage 3: Internship requires at least 56 phone hours over a 7-9-month period.

Please note that all Lifeline Direct crisis supporter training sessions, including those conducted remotely, must be attended from within Australia. Participants must be physically located in Australia for the duration of the training.

Training Cost: Lifeline is an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 88036) and charges a minimal training fee (which is primarily subsidised) to help cover the significant costs of instructor time, materials, and accreditation. This allows us to provide quality training while keeping it accessible for volunteers who play a crucial role in supporting our service. The cost to enrol in Stage 1 - Crisis Supporter Worker Training is $550.

• A $175 non-refundable deposit is due upon confirming your preferred training group.

• The remaining $375 must be paid before the commencement of Topic 5 in the training program.

Volunteer Commitment:

• Ongoing, a minimum commitment of 4 hours per fortnight is required for volunteer shifts.

• 2-year commitment as a volunteer.

It is a requirement that volunteers contribute towards training costs. The nationally recognised crisis supporter training is delivered on behalf of Lifeline Australia RTO 88036.

Other Requirements A Police Check and Working With Children Check are required for the role, these must be covered at your own cost.

Additional requirements

• National Police Certificate
• Working with Children Check

May be arranged via the Organisation. Details to be provided on expression of interest.