Volunteer
VOLUNTEERING AT ORYGEN
Volunteer engagement supports Orygen’s vision and mission by finding meaningful opportunities for members of the public, from students to retirees, to engage in the most practical way possible with our values and our work.
If you would like to get involved, view our volunteer initiative below, Orygen Assist. You can register your interest to volunteer and receive updates when the program is recruiting new volunteers.
Currently Orygen Assist is the only volunteer program available, however any future expansion of the volunteer program and potential roles will be included on this page.
ORYGEN ASSIST
Orygen Assist is a volunteer-run program providing free essential items – such as food, new clothing, and hygiene products – to young people experiencing mental ill-health and their families.
- Orygen Parkville
- Volunteer-run shop operating Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm
- Online ordering and delivery service available for staff across Orygen/headspace sites in Melton, Werribee, Sunshine, Glenroy, Craigieburn and Orygen@Home Footscray to request items on behalf of young people/families
- headspace Melton, Werribee, Sunshine, Glenroy, Craigieburn
- Orygen Assist hub available in reception at these sites
- Orygen@Home Footscray
Some things to know if you wish to start volunteering at Orygen Assist:
- Requirements for volunteering include the right to live and work in Australia, current national police check and current Working with Children Check.
- Volunteer roles include onsite support and delivery drivers.
- Shifts and availability can be flexible, however we do ask for a minimum 6-month commitment.
Register now
Once you've registered, one of our team members will be in touch.
For more information about Orygen Assist, visit the Orygen Assist webpage.
Meet an Orygen Assist Volunteer
Xan
How did you find out about Orygen and the Orygen Assist volunteer opportunity?
I found out about Orygen because I attend the University of Melbourne, which has a strong working relationship with Orygen. That influenced me to have a look at Orygen's website, where I found out about the Orygen Assist volunteer opportunity.
What drew you to volunteer for Orygen Assist?
I was drawn to Orygen Assist because it provides food, hygiene and clothing staples to young people and their families on an informal, walk-in basis. I liked the idea of meeting Orygen clients and their families to see firsthand the people who Orygen helps.
What impact does Orygen Assist have on the community?
Given the cost-of-living and housing crises, now more than ever, Orygen Assist helps young people and their families access essential items that they might not be able to afford to buy. It's nice to think that we're providing some relief to people who might not have enough food or clothes for themselves or their loved ones.
What is your favourite part of volunteering?
I find it rewarding when I can help young people pick out items that will benefit them, like nice jumpers to get through the chilly weather, and food that'll be simple to cook and tasty to eat.
A huge thank you to Orygen Assist’s 2025-26 grant supporters Cleanaway, Change X, Melbourne Airport and Nelson Alexander Charitable Foundation.
A heartfelt thank you to Orygen Assist’s charity partners Foodbank Victoria, Thread Together, Pinchapoo and Rotary Central Melbourne.
