FAQs
FAQs
Want to learn more about ways to get involved with Habitat for Humanity's work in Australia and overseas?
Here are some frequently asked questions…
Global Village
What is Global Village?
Global Village is Habitat's overseas volunteering program. Volunteers select their build date and location, fundraise and travel to the host country. Here, alongside the rest of the team, they build homes for vulnerable families.
Who can join a Global Village build?
Anyone aged 15 years and above can join our builds! Those aged between 15 - 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no maximum age limit – as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness you will be right at home on a Habitat build!
All the builds listed on our website are inclusive and open to anyone who meets the minimum age requirement - no experience necessary.
How much does it cost to take part in a Global Village build?
Registration Fee: $200 standard / $100 early bird pricing
The non-refundable registration fee covers medical and evacuation insurance, your online fundraising page and a build pack to get you on your way. The early bird fee of $100 is available for a limited time.
Program Donation: $1800
This mandatory program donation allows Habitat to fund its mission in countries where resources are very limited. Funding is used to support our operations so that we can reach out and serve more households. Volunteers may choose to pay this amount themselves, but we strongly encourage you to fundraise to reach your target, raise awareness for Habitat's mission, and have fun along the way. All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. When you register for a build, you receive a personal fundraising page, Fundraising Toolkit and resources to help you on your journey.
In-country expenses: range from $800 - $1600.
This is dependent on the build location, itinerary & your accommodation preference (single/twin-share). These expenses can be fundraised through your own crowd-funding site, but are not tax deductible. These costs will also vary depending on the country you are visiting and your itinerary. Habitat will design an itinerary with a budget to cover the week's accommodation, all meals (except for a "free evening" mid-week), bottled water, on-site snacks, ground transportation, and local activities.
Flights, visas, vaccinations, additional travel insurance and personal expenses are not included in your Global Village build costs.
All donations received by HFHA on behalf of the volunteer are committed to the field and are non-refundable.
If you can no longer make the build and your cancellation is over 60 days from the build start date, your registration fee and fundraising is transferable within a 24-month period to join another Global Village team.
If the build is less than 60 days away at the time of cancellation, Habitat for Humanity Australia will not be liable to make any refunds and the sums will be used to meet their current obligations. Your registration and fundraising will not be eligible for transfer, and any expenses paid cannot be refunded.
Cancellations made due to extenuating circumstances (not change of mind) with fewer than 60 days before the build start date will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Do I need building experience?
No, building experience is not required. All you need is a reasonable level of fitness, an open mind, and a willingness to get your hands dirty. You will be working alongside local construction workers who will teach you the ropes and supervise the build.
What kind of things will I do on a build?
Your team may work on one or several houses, or you may even build a toilet or well. The work will use local construction techniques and materials. You could be mixing concrete, weaving bamboo, digging foundations, laying bricks, hammering, rendering or painting.
How many people go on a Global Village build?
Global Village teams are usually made up of 12-40 team members who are led by a volunteer Team Leader, who is trained and supported by the Global Village team. Occasionally Global Village organises special builds with 100+ volunteers, and large corporate or school groups.
How long does a build last?
Builds typically run for one week, from Saturday to Saturday, and include time for rest, relaxation and exploring the country. Before you leave, the Global Village team will send you an itinerary outlining your stay and what you will be doing.
Where will I stay?
Where you stay will vary depending on your destination but all volunteers will have a comfortable hotel. The team will stay together in twin share or single rooms. The Habitat team will provide daily travel to the build site.
Where are builds located?
We offer builds in a range of countries across the Asia-Pacific, including Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Nepal, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Build sites are often located in semi-rural or rural locations off the tourist-beaten track. It is a unique opportunity for you to experience a humble way of life as you work with local people in their community setting.
What kind of help and support is offered?
Habitat for Humanity Australia, our trained Team Leaders and our in-country partners will support and look after you from registration through to the completion of your build. Before you leave we will equip you with all the information and resources you need. Once you arrive in country you will be met at the airport and transported to your accommodation. The team will receive an orientation and daily briefings will be conducted by Habitat staff.
What personal health and safety issues are involved?
A build usually involves some vigorous physical activity, so team members must be reasonably fit and in good physical health.
You are encouraged to consult your doctor or a specialised travel doctor regarding your personal health and recommended vaccinations and/or medications. However, it is strongly recommended that you are up-to-date with all routine vaccines, including Tetanus.
What do I wear on a build?
Clothing should be practical, lightweight and loose-fitting to keep you cool and protected. If you are inappropriately dressed for the build site you will not be permitted to build.
Long pants are mandatory on the build site for your own protection. In many of the countries in which we build, it is also to be culturally respectful. Shorts or tights are strictly prohibited.
Shirts with short or long sleeves are fine but absolutely no singlets. You will receive a Habitat T-shirt and cap when you register.
Shoes should be comfortable, sturdy and enclosed—absolutely no thongs. Work boots, especially those with steel toe caps are recommended.
Habitat tools, equipment and safety protection gear will be provided.
Can I join a Global Village build with a group of friends of colleagues?
Absolutely! If you are a group of 12+ friends or colleagues wishing to participate in a build as a group, get in touch with us to see what we can design for a unique team experience. Call the Volunteering team on 1800 88 55 99 or email us at [email protected]
I have more questions!
If you have more questions that haven’t been answered above then please call the Volunteering team on 1800 88 55 99 or email us at [email protected]
Community Volunteering
What tasks will I be expected to complete?
Volunteer tasks vary and are dependent on the immediate need in the communities we serve. The vulnerable families and partners we help across Australia require assistance with a range of different jobs that they cannot manage alone. We will always find something for you to do that is within your capabilities and level of comfort. Teams of volunteers may assist with essential bushfire resilience activities; creating firebreaks and blocking ember entry points; or with renovations, landscaping, gardening and minor repairs.
Who can take part in a Community Volunteering activity?
Anyone aged 15 years and above can take part in a Community Volunteering activity. Those aged 15 - 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no maximum age limit – as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness you will be right at home on a Habitat Community Volunteering day.
How many days can I volunteer?
You can join us for as many days as you like! We add plenty of options about a month in advance so keep an eye on the calendar!
How do you decide who to help?
We work with local partners and community groups who identify those in need and refer projects to us. For our Bushfire Resilience program, Habitat will help almost anybody who is in need and who can host a team of volunteers safely.
When will I know the exact address?
We will always tell you the region you will be working in but as we work with vulnerable communities and manage multiple projects, you will be informed of the exact address roughly 1 to 2 weeks before your the volunteer day to ensure the safety and privacy of those we are assisting.
What do I need to wear?
Suitable, comfortable work clothes (they will get dirty and sometimes get paint on them) and enclosed footwear. Work boots with steel toe caps are recommended. A Habitat T-shirt and cap will be provided on the day. Habitat tools, equipment and safety protection gear will be available on site.
Will food be provided?
We ask everyone to bring their own lunch and snacks to site. This is to ensure that every dietary requirement is catered for and COVID safety is practised.
What should I bring to site?
Comfortable work clothes and enclosed shoes (work boots and long pants are recommended), sunscreen, a water bottle, a wide-brim hat and your lunch and snacks.
Is COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for Habitat for Humanity Australia volunteers?
HFHA no longer requires community volunteers participating in activities domestically to provide evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination status.
How do I get to the work site?
You will need your own transportation to get to the work site.
Can I bring a corporate group with me?
For corporate bookings, please visit our Brush with Kindness page to see available dates and programs that suit your team's needs. FAQs below.
What happens if I cancel my volunteer day?
You can cancel your volunteer day anytime. We just ask that you log into the Volunteer portal account and remove yourself from the day as soon as you know you can’t make it. Late cancellations may result in the day having to cancelled so please notify us as soon as possible so we can set expectations with the people we are helping.
What personal health and safety issues are involved?
Volunteering activities usually involve some vigorous physical activity. Team members must be reasonably fit and in good physical health. You are encouraged to consult your doctor or regarding your personal health if you have concerns.
I have more questions!
If you have more questions that haven’t been answered above then please call the Volunteering team on 1800 88 55 99 or email us at [email protected]
Corporate Volunteering
What is Brush with Kindness?
The Brush with Kindness program mobilises teams of corporate volunteers to conduct renovations, landscaping, gardening, and minor repairs to the who are experiencing homelessness or disadvantage, or escaping domestic violence. The one-day group activity is an opportunity for your employees, colleagues, or partners to come together and spend time out of the office – no building skills are required! They will enjoy an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of people who need a helping hand whilst getting their own hands dirty!
How many volunteers can participate each day?
We generally host teams of up to 10 people, and up to 15 people in NSW & QLD for an additional contribution of $750 + GST, which funds a second Site Supervisor (required by Work, Health and Safety laws and to ensure a safe activity for your team).
Volunteer team numbers need to be agreed and confirmed with Habitat at the time of booking (4 to 6 weeks prior to the activity.)
Why do we need to pay $5,000 for the day?
Your financial investment goes far beyond covering the day's activities to support our wider programs in Australia and overseas. The volunteer experience HFHA provides is an amazing team-building experience for your staff and will contribute to your organisation’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals.
The financial contribution for the volunteer activity is required to be paid as soon as you select your preferred date and have confirmed the team size. An invoice will be sent to the main corporate contact.
From time to time there may be a lower contribution for smaller teams or when there is urgent work that needs completing with a short turn around. Let us know if you're interested in one of these lower-cost options.
What do I need to wear?
Suitable comfortable work clothes (they will get dirty and sometimes paint on them) and enclosed footwear (work boots are recommended). A Habitat t-shirt and cap will be provided. Habitat tools, equipment and safety protection gear will be available on site.
What should I bring to site?
Comfortable work clothes and enclosed shoes (work boots and long pants are recommended), a water bottle, sunscreen and a wide-brim hat.
Will food be provided?
During the COVID-19 pandemic food is not being provided to ensure the safety of all involved.
When will I know the exact address?
While the activity will usually be within 60-90 minutes of the CBD, as we work with vulnerable communities you will be informed of the exact location roughly 1-2 weeks prior to the volunteer day. This is to ensure the safety of those we are assisting.
How do I get to the work site?
You will need your own form of transportation (car) to get to the work site. We do not recommend taking public transportation as the sites are usually far from any bus stop or train station.
What level of personal fitness is required?
A volunteering activity usually involves some vigorous physical activity. Team members must be reasonably fit and in good physical health. You are encouraged to consult your doctor regarding your personal health if you have any concerns.
Do I have to be fully COVID-19 vaccinated to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Australia?
HFHA no longer requires corporates volunteering domestically to provide evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination status.
What safety issues are involved?
Prior to the day we ask that each volunteer complete a short online Work Health and Safety induction. Habitat for Humanity provides a Site Supervisor trained in health, safety and first aid requirements. Each group receives an induction prior to working, informing them of all OH&S and privacy requirements and we adhere to strict policy frameworks to ensure the safety of both volunteers and partner families.
What happens if Habitat cancels the volunteering day?
From time to time we may have to postpone or cancel an activity for reasons beyond our control. If this occurs we will notify you in advance and will refund your contribution, or offer an alternative activity.
What happens if we cancel our volunteering day?
The contribution includes a non-refundable deposit of $1,500. If an activity is cancelled by your organisation within four weeks before the scheduled activity, we will retain $1,500 to cover program costs already incurred. If cancellation occurs within 48 hours of the commencement time of the activity we will retain 50% of the contribution due to the resourcing in preparation for the activity.
I have more questions!
If you have more questions that haven’t been answered above then please call the Volunteering team on 1800 88 55 99 or email us at [email protected]
