About Healthy Cities Australia: Healthy Cities Australia began in 1987 as Healthy Cities Illawarra, one of three World Health Organization pilot projects funded by the Australian Government, and has since expanded its reach beyond the Illawarra and Shoalhaven to support healthier communities nationwide. We work in strong partnership with local governments, healthcare providers, and community organisations to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based, cost-effective programs that create lasting health impacts. Our initiatives span fair food access, healthy eating and cooking skills, physical activity, social inclusion, youth development, and age-friendly programs, helping shape healthier environments and fostering sustainable behaviour change. We stand for advocacy and public health leadership, preventing chronic disease and reducing hospitalisations, and supporting healthy people in healthy cities.

The role: Cook Chill Chat is a 6-week food education and cooking program designed to strengthen social connections and build practical healthy eating knowledge. The program is specifically targeted to support elderly community members, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, young families, and people experiencing economic or social isolation. In 2026, we will be delivering a 6-week iteration of the program in East Nowra, running for 6 hours each week starting in February. We are seeking volunteers to help deliver this engaging, community-focused program.

Key Responsibilities Cook Chill Chat Volunteers help create a fun, inclusive, and positive learning environment. Volunteers will support the program by: • Assisting with session preparation, setup, cooking activities, cleaning, washing, and pack-up • Working alongside the lead facilitator to support program delivery • Interacting and engaging with participants to help build confidence and connection

Attributes, Qualifications and Experience We welcome volunteers who bring: • The ability to work both independently and as part of a team • An enthusiastic, proactive approach to community engagement • Confidence and experience cooking from scratch, and a willingness to cook alongside participants • Experience facilitating groups (preferred but not essential)

This role is also suitable for individuals seeking experience in Social Work, Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health, or community-based health promotion.