Purpose of Role

The Australian Syrian Charity’s board gives guidance to and have a strong role in the organisation of the activities within the charity. The Administration Support Volunteer to the Board of the Organisation will provide administrative assistance to the board and liaise with the operational team in these tasks, such as checking emails, taking minutes, scheduling meetings, updating the calendar, reviewing and drafting documents, helping out with funding applications, contacting partner organisations and other related tasks.

In return, we offer you the chance to make a real difference in the lives of refugee families who are new to the Melbourne community. By supporting the Board of the organisation in their work you are making a huge contribution to the Australian-Syrian community, and to help them to feel more comfortable living here in this country. A way of saying "welcome"!

This position will require a Working with Children Check and Police check.

Key Responsibilities

• Have weekly meetings with a representative of the board of the organisation
• Checking emails
• Taking minutes, scheduling meetings, updating the calendar, reviewing and drafting documents, helping out with funding applications, contacting partner organisations and other related tasks.
• Accompany Board members at meeting with potential partners where possible.
• Liaise with board members, Program Coordinator and other staff
• Maintain a culturally sensitive attitude and avoid discussing topics related to politics or religion, respecting the conservative Christian background of most of the participants.
• Attend community events and where possible.
• Attend inductions, and trainings & possible volunteer get togethers where possible.
• Record and submit volunteer hours.
• Comply with ASC policies & procedures, identify OHS concerns and communicate these to ASC staff (e.g. report hazards or incidents).

Legislative Requirements

• Ensure compliance with relevant policies and legislative requirements such as Occupational Health & Safety (OHS), the Commonwealth Privacy Act and ASC Child Protection Policy.
• Obtain a Working With Children Check and a Police Check before starting your work with ASC.
• Familiarise yourself with relevant policies, procedures and work practices of ASC

Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated experience in a similar position or administrative role
• Demonstrated flexibility, patience and cross-cultural communication, especially in building rapport with people.
• Be organised and have the ability to adhere to set deadlines
• Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal skills and facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated flexibility, patience and cross-cultural communication.
• Experience with people with complex or vulnerable backgrounds and people

from CALD backgrounds.

• Experience with report writing and grant applications appreciated
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
• Be able to attend fortnightly or monthly meetings with the ASC staff.
• Creative and enthusiastic, with the ability to motivate others.
• Affinity with the organisation’s purpose and values.
• A strong interest in working with refugees, and a great degree of cultural sensitivity in working with people from CALD and /or complex or vulnerable backgrounds.

What volunteers gain from their experience with the Australian Syrian Charity:

• Valuable work experience & training with a respected NGO (non-government organisation) that can be added to your resume.
• Future references for volunteers completing a successful agreed period.
• A full induction and a supportive and friendly working environment.
• The option to attend regular team meetings.
• Become part of a welcoming Syrian community and participate in community events.
• Dedicated Volunteer Coordinator and other staff to support volunteers.
• Arabic coffee, tea, and biscuits!