FAQs
FAQs
Want to learn more about Helping Hands, Habitat for Humanity and our work in the Asia-Pacific region?
Check out our frequently asked questions below!
Global Village
When will Global Village be returning?
Currently Global Village is on hold due to border closures and Covid-19 restrictions, and there is currently no date to restart the program. When we are able to again take individual, corporate and school teams of volunteers overseas we will communicate this to our supporters. As soon as is possible we will again be able to provide this amazing opportunity in various locations throughout Asia and the Pacific. In the meantime, please see upcoming volunteering opportunities in Australia on our Local Village page.
Are there any age restrictions?
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! However, the minimum age is 15, and volunteers under 18 need to attend with a parent, guardian or chaperone. This is due to health and safety requirements as volunteers spend the week on a construction site. Some countries have a higher minimum age requirement. Please get in touch with the team for more information.
How much does a Global Village trip cost per person?
Registration Fee – $200 standard / $100 early bird pricing
This cannot be fundraised. Your registration fee covers medical and evacuation insurance, your online fundraising page, police check and a build pack to get you on your way.
The early bird fee of $100 is valid when registering for a volunteer build more than 6 months in advance.
Minimum Fundraising- $1800
This is a tax deductible donation which can be fundraised. Once received, this will be split between Habitat for Humanity Australia, to help resource the Global Village program, and the Habitat host country to fund life-changing projects like your build experience. The Global Village team will create an online fundraising page for you, and support you through your fundraising journey. (A reduced minimum fundraising amount of $1000 applies to school/youth teams).
In-country expenses – typically $600-$1000
These expenses can be fundraised through your preferred crowd-funding site, but are not tax deductible. These costs will also vary depending on the country you are visiting. The Team Leader and the Habitat host country will devise a budget to cover your accommodation, meals, bottled water, ground transportation and local activities before you depart.
Flights, visa, vaccinations, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included in your Global Village trip costs.
Do I need build 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 -15 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 hundreds of volunteers from all over the world taking part. This is an amazing way to meet new people and be a part of the international Habitat community.
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. However, all volunteers will have a comfortable hotel. The team will stay together and often be accommodated on a twin share basis. 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 but not limited to; Fiji, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nepal, Indonesia.
Build sites are often located in semi-rural or rural locations and off the beaten tourist track. It’s a unique opportunity for you to experience a humble way of life while you work in a 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. 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.
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 volunteer@habitat.org.au
Local Village
Are there any age restrictions?
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! However, the minimum age is 15, and volunteers under 18 need to attend with a parent, guardian or chaperone. This is due to health and safety requirements as volunteers spend time on a construction site. Please get in touch with the team for more information at volunteer@habitat.org.au or on 1800 88 55 99.
How much does a Local Village trip cost per person?
Registration Fee – $100 standard / $50 early bird pricing
This cannot be fundraised. Your registration fee covers medical and evacuation insurance, your online fundraising page and a build pack to wear on your trip.
The early bird fee of $50 is valid when registering for a volunteer build more than 4 months in advance.
Minimum Fundraising- $1000
This is a tax-deductible donation which can be fundraised. Once received, this will be split between resourcing our programs, and enable us to continue to grow the volunteering program. We will create an online fundraising page for you, and support you through your fundraising journey.
Costs – typically $300-$600
These costs will vary depending on the area you are visiting. We will put together a budget to cover your accommodation, meals, bottled water, and snacks before you depart.
Transport, flights, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included in your Local Village trip costs.
Do I need experience?
No experience or skills are 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 a qualified Habitat supervisor who will teach you the ropes and supervise each task.
What kind of things will I do on a build?
The families we work with in Australia require help with a large range of different jobs. Within the last year we have rebuilt fencing, laid pavers, built rock gardens, potted new flora, painted shelters, and removed debris. We will always find a task for you to do that is within your capabilities and level of comfort.
How many people go on a Local Village build?
Local Village teams are usually made up of 6–15 team members. This is an amazing way to meet new people and be a part of the growing Habitat volunteer community.
How long does a build last?
Builds typically run for four days, from Thursday evening to Sunday morning, and includes time for rest, relaxation and exploring the area. Before you leave, the Volunteering team will send you an itinerary outlining your stay and what you will be doing, and recommendations for the best local restaurants and attractions.
Where will I stay?
Where you stay will vary depending on your destination. However, all volunteers will have a comfortable hotel option. The team will stay together and often be accommodated on a twin share basis.
Where are builds located?
We offer builds in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales. Soon we will be expanding to a beautiful location in South Australia also.
Build sites are often located in semi-rural or rural locations. It’s a unique opportunity for you to experience a humble way of life while you work in a community setting.
Will I need my own transportation?
To get to the build site you will need your own form of transportation. We recommend hiring a car if you do not already have one.
What kind of help and support is offered?
Habitat, and our trained supervisor 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. The team will receive a daily briefing from Habitat staff.
What level of personal fitness is required?
A build 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.
What safety issues are involved?
Prior to your build we ask that each volunteer completes a short online 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 each day, informing them of all Work Health and Safety and privacy requirements to ensure the safety of both volunteers and partner families.
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 volunteer@habitat.org.au
Hike for Habitat
What is a ‘Hike for Habitat’?
We run Hike for Habitat with partner companies, Inspired Adventures and Huma Charity Challenge. Hike’s will typically last 5 – 7 days and suit anyone with average to high level fitness. When attending a Hike for Habitat, comfortable accommodation and delicious and hearty food is provided for you.
Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
A Hike for Habitat welcomes anyone aged from 18 to 90+ with younger ages considered on request.
How much does a Hike for Habitat trip cost per person?
Costs vary from trip to trip but we have estimated costs below to give you an idea.
Registration Fee – Est $400 / *$100* off for early bird pricing
This cannot be fundraised. Your registration fee covers essential costs set by Inspired Adventures.
The early bird fee of $300 is valid when registering for a volunteer build more than 6 months in advance.
Minimum Fundraising- Est. $2500
This is a tax-deductible donation which can be fundraised. All donations go towards Habitat for Humanity Australia, to help resource our programs, and fund life-changing projects. The Volunteering team will create an online fundraising page for you, and support you through your fundraising journey.
Costs – Est. $2,000 – $3000
These expenses cannot be fundraised and are not tax-deductible. These costs will also vary depending on the trek you participate in. The Inspired Adventures team will devise a budget to cover your accommodation, meals, bottled water, transport and snacks before you depart.
Flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included in your Hike for Habitat trip costs.
How many people go on a Hike for Habitat?
We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Inspired Adventures usually have 10 – 20 people aged from 18 to 90+ (younger ages considered on request). You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
How long does a hike last?
Hikes typically run for four to seven days, and include time for rest, relaxation and exploring the area. Before you leave, the Inspired Adventures 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. However, all volunteers will have a comfortable hotel option. The team will stay together and often be accommodated on a twin share basis.
Where are hikes located?
We currently have treks booked in for Larapinta, Northern Territory and Cradle Mountain, Tasmania, but Inspired Adventures offers many wonderful locations so we will be considering many more magical locations in the future.
Will I need my own transportation?
To get to the Hike location you will need to book your own flights and make your own way to the team’s hotel on the first night.
What kind of help and support is offered?
Both Habitat for Humanity Australia and Inspired Adventures staff will support and look after you from registration through to the completion of your hike. Before you leave we will equip you with all the information and resources you need. Once you arrive you will be meeting the team for a welcome dinner or breakfast (dependent on the itinerary). The team will receive an orientation and daily briefings will be conducted by Inspired Adventures guides and staff.
What personal health and safety issues are involved?
While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering for most of the hikes, our adventures are designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
You can expect the days to vary from easy exploration walks to day-long hikes over rough terrain. You should be able to walk comfortably for 6 – 8 hours over consecutive days.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.
Can corporate or school groups join a Hike for Habitat?
Yes, they can. Tell us what you’re looking for and we can tailor an experience for your staff or students.
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 volunteer@habitat.org.au
Community Volunteering
What tasks will I be expected to complete?
Teams of volunteers may assist with renovations, landscaping, gardening, and minor repairs for people who are experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic violence, or recovering from disasters or susceptible to future disasters. The families and partners we work with in Australia require help with a large range of different jobs. Within the last year we have painted walls, rebuilt fencing, laid pavers, built rock gardens, potted new flora, painted shelters, and removed debris. We will always find a task for you to do that is within your capabilities and level of comfort.
How many days can I volunteer?
You can join us for as many days as you like – from one day per year to 3 or 4 a week! 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 refer projects volunteers may assist based on priority and the need. For the bushfire recovery and resilience program we will help almost anybody who asks for assistance, and who can host a team of volunteers safely.
When will I know the exact address?
While we can tell you the region you will be working in, as we work with vulnerable communities and manage multiple projects you will be informed of the exact location roughly 1 to 2 weeks prior to the volunteer day. This is to ensure the safety of those we are assisting.
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.
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 practiced.
What should I bring to site?
Comfortable work clothes and enclosed shoes (work boots and long pants are recommended), sunscreen, water bottle, wide brim hat, and any lunch/snacks.
Do I have to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 to come to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Australia?
Yes, you do. The safety of our volunteers, staff and beneficiaries is our top priority. As we often work with vulnerable groups within the community, we require that all volunteers and Habitat’s volunteer supervisors be vaccinated against COVID-19. Volunteers must present their vaccination certificate prior to an activity. If you're unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons, you'll need to send us your Immunisation History Statement which displays medical contraindications to COVID-19 vaccines reported to the Australian Immunisation Register.
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 on a day with me?
For corporate bookings, please visit our Brush with Kindness page to see available dates and programs that suit your company’s needs.
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.
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 volunteer@habitat.org.au
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, are disadvantaged, recovering from or preparing for disasters 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 life-changing impact in the community for people who are less fortunate and have some fun getting their hands dirty!
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 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.)
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.
Will food be provided?
During the COVID-19 pandemic food is not being provided to ensure the safety of all involved.
What should I bring to site?
Comfortable work clothes and enclosed shoes (boots and long pants are recommended, sunscreen, water bottle, wide brim hat.
Why do we need to pay $5,000 for the day?
We ask our corporate supporters for a financial contribution in order to cover the day's activities as well as to support our wider programs in Australia and overseas. We know that the volunteer experience we provide 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.
Do I have to be fully vaccinated to come to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Australia?
Yes, you do. The safety of our volunteers, staff and beneficiaries is our top priority. As we often work with vulnerable groups within the community, we require that all volunteers and Habitat’s volunteer supervisors be vaccinated against COVID-19. Volunteers must present their vaccination certificate prior to an activity. If you're unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons, you'll need to send us your Immunisation History Statement which displays medical contraindications to COVID-19 vaccines reported to the Australian Immunisation Register.
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.
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.
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 volunteer@habitat.org.au
