About ADAVIC: Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria is a not-for-profit, self-funded organisation. We provide support, information and resources to individuals suffering from or affected by anxiety, depression, and related issues. Our unique grass-roots service bridges the gap between the individual, the local community, and health professionals.

Purpose of the role: ADAVIC provides a Facebook Support Service in addition to Phone and Email support, information, and referral services. The ADAVIC Facebook page and group has become an extremely active medium for support and information sharing. The page aims to connect individuals with an interest or concern with anxiety and/or depression, promote ADAVIC services and events, provide support, increase knowledge, share relevant information and provide a reliable and consistent online community. Furthermore, the Facebook medium allows individuals to connect with other members of the community for the benefits of peer support.

The Facebook page is maintained and moderated by ADAVIC volunteers who filter the high volume of incoming information and manage all posts, responses and private messages on the page. To try and help meet the needs of the large number of subscribers, ADAVIC routinely posts inspirational messages and words of encouragement, helpful links to research, information and services, relevant articles (often authored by ADAVIC volunteers) and questions and concerns from participants of the page.

This role is vital in the ongoing management and functionality of the Facebook page, specifically to ensure relevant and helpful information for those in need, and an increased awareness of the relevant discussion topics.

Main duties and responsibilities Reporting to the Senior Administrative Team & Managing Director, the role of Facebook Support Volunteer typically includes the following tasks:

• Provide Facebook support, information and resources
• Respond to users’ needs with empathy, encouragement, understanding and a non-judgmental manner
• Read and interpret private messages and wall posts from Facebook users
• De-identify and publically post specific private messages that are deemed relevant and useful to other subscribers or at the request of the author
• Research and formulate appropriate, relevant and insightful responses
• Link in with crisis support organisations and services if needs exceed ADAVIC capabilities
• Provide moderation of the Facebook page
• Understand and enforce page rules
• Issue appropriate warnings to non-compliant users
• Generate and facilitate ongoing discussion
• Be aware of and address personal criticisms, bullying, offensive language and inappropriate content
• Report names of individuals who fail to adhere to page rules and/or warnings
• Gathering relevant and useful information
• Maintain a basic understanding of the issues and themes within the area of mental health
• Locate and save suitable content such as pictures, quotes, stories, and articles
• Add to list of discussion topics to be posted at a later date
• Contribute at least two articles to ADAVIC’s quarterly Newsletter.

Skills and experience required:

• A genuine, considerate, non-judgmental, and professional approach
• Good written expression consisting of eloquence, courtesy and succinctness
• Excellent understanding of psychological theories, concepts and an understanding of mental health issues
• An up to date knowledge-base of relevant and available services, programs and events (e.g. Mental Health Care Plans etc)
• Strong research and analysis skills with an ability to apply this to practical information and resources for the community
• Ability to manage workload and competing tasks to meet deadlines
• Reliable and able to use judgment and act on own initiative, whilst also working well as part of a team
• Adept with computers, MS Office, and the internet
• Ability to identify personal limitations and weaknesses, and seek help and support when necessary

How to apply Please express your interest by applying for this role through SEEK Volunteer. Once we receive your application you'll receive an email with instructions on next steps. You'll be required to email us a copy of your CV and a letter of interest/cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.