Become a Volunteer

Become a Volunteer - Peter Mac Cancer Centre

Volunteer Opportunities



Peer Support Volunteers
We are now recruiting for volunteers with an understanding of the cancer experience, either personal or family member, to work as Peer Support Volunteers in the Patient Information and Support Centre. Training is provided to prepare the successful applicants.

The Patient Information and Support Centre (PISC) is a quiet, comfortable area where information about cancer, its treatment and support services is available. The centre is open Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm. No appointments or referrals are necessary. A Cancer Support Nurse is available to provide professional support to those affected by cancer. Volunteers are important members of the team of people working in this area. The PISC and the drop in service serve to ensure that all Peter Mac patients, families and friends have access to high quality information and support. It is also a resource centre for staff.

The Peer support volunteers:
  • Provide practical support & emotional support to visitors through assisting in finding information or being someone to talk to.
  • Promote the centre and the role of the Cancer Support Nurse to patients and families in the outpatients waiting area.
  • Assist the Cancer Support Nurse as required.

Essential requirements for the role:
  • A period of 2 years since completion of cancer treatment or bereavement is required to volunteer for this program.
  • A commitment to volunteering for a minimum of 4 hours per week for at least 1 year.
  • Completion of the training programme and skills assessments.
  • Completion of a probation period.
  • Ongoing educational updates are provided & volunteers are required to attend the equivalent of 2 days per year.

For more information or to request an expression of interest form, please call the Volunteer Department at Peter Mac on 03 9656 1106, or email to: volunteer.service@petermac.org

Selection Procedure
Entry to our volunteer service requires completion of various elements – they are the recruitment process, general orientation and training process, then placement and training specific to that role. Key criteria for potential volunteers include:
  • A commitment to the values and polices of Peter Mac.
  • Completed & lodged application papers.
  • Phone interview.
  • An interview with Manager or Co-ordinator of Volunteer Services.
  • Screening process.
  • Commitment to attend orientation sessions.
  • Commitment to attend ongoing training sessions.
  • Agreement to confidentiality principles.
  • Ideally an ability to make a 12 month commitment to the Volunteer Service, and to work as part of a team.

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