Where to Volunteer in Wollongong & the Illawarra
Want to know where you can volunteer in Wollongong? We’ve researched what organisations offer volunteer roles Illawarra wide. Whether you’re keen to give back, meet like-minded locals or just try something new, there are plenty of incredible ways to get involved.
Here at What’s On in Wollongong, we shortcut you to the best of our region – from events and activities to where you can make a real difference. We’ve rounded up some of the most rewarding, fun and flexible volunteering opportunities for locals of all ages.
The Rotary Club of Dapto – Community Connection with Purpose
📍Volunteer with The Rotary Club of Dapto
Are you someone who wants to make positive changes in your local community and the world? The Rotary Club of Dapto members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. If you want to support your community while making great connections, The Rotary Club of Dapto is a fantastic place to start.
This welcoming group of locals works on everything from youth support and food relief to environmental and international projects. Weekly meetups (Tuesdays 6pm at Dapto Leagues Club) make it easy to stay involved – and there’s a flexible Companion Club option too.
Whether you’re a student, professional, retiree, or anything in between – if you’re passionate about giving back, meeting like-minded people, and being part of something meaningful, The Rotary Club of Dapto is for you.
Come along to The Rotary Club of Dapto’s Membership Evening
- When: Tuesday 29 April at Dapto Leagues Club
- Wine & nibbles provided
- FREE EVENT – Everyone welcome! No obligation to join
- RSVP here
Karitane Shellharbour – Support Families & Little Ones
📍Volunteer Family Connect (VFC) – Volunteer in-home support info
Want to help families thrive? Karitane Shellharbour provides early parenting support across the Shellharbour region – and volunteers are a big part of their success.
From admin to supporting parenting groups, you’ll be part of a professional, kind-hearted team focused on strengthening local families.
Karitane Shellharbour’s volunteers are trained, experienced and non-judgmental, ready to support families in adjusting to a new baby and connecting you with local services. At home support also available. You can apply now to become a trained Volunteer for Karitane Shellharbour’s Volunteer Family Connect Program – see further details here.
Green Connect – Promote Sustainability and Social Equity
📍Join the Green Connect Volunteer Team
Want to support a not-for-profit that’s creating a greener, fairer world? Green Connect is a not-for-profit social enterprise dedicated to creating jobs, reducing waste, and growing fair food. They offer a variety of volunteer roles to suit different skills and schedules – whether you’re a creative, a teacher, a people-person, or a social media whiz, they have a role for you – from activities assistants, Op Shop Volunteers to fruit & veg delivery packers.
- Be part of an inspiring team making a real impact
- Gain valuable experience in a meaningful way
- Meet like-minded people who care about sustainability and social justice
To express interest in volunteering with Green Connect, learn more about getting involved with their team here.
HARS Aviation Museum – Volunteer in the Skies
Love history or aviation? Volunteer at HARS Aviation Museum in Albion Park and help preserve incredible aircraft – including a real Qantas 747!
HARS Aviation Museum is always on the lookout for enthusiastic and energetic people who wish to take part in recording and preserving our national aviation history.
You can assist with tours, restoration, admin or events – no aviation background needed, just enthusiasm and community spirit. From engineering to administration, museum curation and hospitality – there’s a role for everyone. Get involved or learn more here.
Illawarra Light Railway Museum – Ride the Rails
📍 The Illawarra Light Railway Volunteer Info
Train lovers, this one’s for you! The Illawarra Light Railway Museum is a fun, family-friendly hub that runs historic train rides and events – all powered by volunteers.
Help with restoration, maintenance, events or education – and become part of a vibrant volunteer family. If you have and interest on garden and yard work, restorations, carpentry, track work skills or want to be part of their team, then send them an email as they would love to hear from you.
Wollongong Botanic Garden – Grow Something Beautiful
📍 Volunteer at Wollongong Botanic Garden
Enjoy the outdoors and love plants? The Friends of Wollongong Botanic Garden welcome volunteers for propagation, garden tours, workshops and more. It’s a relaxing, rewarding way to connect with nature and the community.
They run regular activities at the Garden, including buggy tours, guided walks and support staff during their school holiday program and major events. Behind the scenes, they help with things like research, archiving, plant propagation, and weeding. The Friends also raise funds through activities including monthly plant sales.
New members of all ages and backgrounds are always welcome. Friends also receive exclusive benefits to Botanic Garden events and activities.
Landcare Illawarra – Regenerate Our Region
Get your hands dirty (in the best way) with Landcare Illawarra, where over 100 local groups care for our native bush, wetlands and waterways.
Volunteer roles include tree planting, weed removal and habitat restoration – no experience needed, just passion for the planet.
Illawarra Multicultural Services – Celebrate Diversity
Support refugee and multicultural communities through Illawarra Multicultural Services (IMS). Volunteers help with English classes, tech support, creative groups and more.
It’s a powerful, personal way to promote inclusion and learn from other cultures.
University of Wollongong – Youth Volunteering & More
Whether you’re a student or just community-minded, UOW offers heaps of ways to get involved – from events and outreach to peer mentoring and community building.
It’s perfect for young people looking to develop skills, give back, and meet awesome humans.
Other Volunteer Ideas Across the Illawarra
- 🐾 RSPCA Illawarra – help animals in need
- 🛍️ Salvos, Lifeline & Vinnies – op shops love extra hands
- 🏖️ Local Surf Life Saving Clubs – keep beaches safe and vibrant
- 🎪 Check out our Events Page for one-off festival & event volunteer gigs
Why Volunteer in Wollongong?
- Make a real difference
- Build your confidence and skills
- Meet amazing, passionate locals
- Feel good, do good – it’s a win-win
No matter your age, background or availability, there’s a volunteering role out there for you.
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