Volunteering in Brisbane
Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Brisbane. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats in Brisbane to connect with their new community, meet like-minded individuals, and make a positive impact. It offers a unique opportunity to integrate, learn about the local culture, and gain new skills. Brisbane has a vibrant volunteering scene with numerous organizations catering to various interests and causes.
The Pyjama Foundation
The Pyjama Foundation provides learning experiences to children in foster care. Volunteers, known as Pyjama Angels, visit the same child every week for 1.5 hours to read books, play educational games, and instill a love for learning. Getting involved requires completing an application form and attending a training session.
Website: thepyjamafoundation.com
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: 1.5 hours per week
RSPCA Queensland
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Queensland is dedicated to protecting and caring for animals. Volunteers can assist with animal care, fundraising, events, and administration. The first step to getting involved is filling out an online application form.
Website: rspcaqld.org.au
Location(s): Wacol and Dakabin
Time Commitment: Variable, depending on the role
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals to individuals who have difficulty shopping or cooking for themselves. Volunteers deliver meals and offer social interaction to clients. To get involved, volunteers need to complete an application form and attend an induction session.
Website: mealsonwheels.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week or fortnight
Lifeline
Lifeline provides crisis support and suicide prevention services. Volunteers can assist with telephone counseling, retail operations, fundraising, and more. To become a volunteer, individuals need to complete an application form and relevant training.
Website: lifeline.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: Variable, depending on the role
Conservation Volunteers Australia
Conservation Volunteers Australia engages the community in environmental conservation projects. Volunteers can participate in activities like tree planting, weed control, and wildlife surveys. Getting involved requires registering online and attending a project induction.
Website: conservationvolunteers.com.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: Full-day or half-day projects
Red Cross
The Australian Red Cross offers various volunteering opportunities, including emergency services, community support, and retail. Volunteers can assist with disaster response, visiting programs, and shop operations. The first step to getting involved is completing an online application.
Website: redcross.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: Variable, depending on the role
Orange Sky Australia
Orange Sky Australia provides free mobile laundry and shower services to people experiencing homelessness. Volunteers can assist with service operations, fundraising, and events. To get involved, volunteers need to complete an application form and attend a training session.
Website: orangesky.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per shift
The Smith Family
The Smith Family supports disadvantaged Australian children to succeed at school. Volunteers can assist with learning support programs, mentoring, and fundraising. Getting involved requires completing an application form and attending a training session.
Website: thesmithfamily.com.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: Variable, depending on the role
Visiting Friends
Visiting Friends is a volunteer program that provides social support to elderly individuals who may be feeling lonely or isolated. Volunteers visit clients in their homes for a chat and a cuppa. To get involved, volunteers need to complete an application form and attend an induction session.
Website: visitingfriends.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours per week or fortnight
Greening Australia
Greening Australia engages the community in restoring and conserving Australia's landscapes. Volunteers can participate in activities like tree planting, habitat restoration, and seed collection. Getting involved requires registering online and attending a project induction.
Website: greeningaustralia.org.au
Location(s): Various locations across Brisbane
Time Commitment: Half-day or full-day projects
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Brisbane
- Health Care in Brisbane
- The Essential Guide to Brisbane
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Australia
- Best Places to Live in Australia
- Real Estate in Australia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Australia
- 10 Best Places for Families to Live in Australia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Australia 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Australia


