Essential Resources

This page brings together the key policies and tools Group Leaders may need in specific situations. You do not need to read everything at once. Use this page when questions arise.

Safety and conduct

• Volunteer terms and conditions
• Code of conduct

The [Link: Victorian public sector code of conduct] extends to both staff and volunteers. It underpins public sector values, general standards of operation and ethical conduct expected.

• Incident reporting guidance
• Child Safe Standards information

Services Victoria explains child safety responsibilities and when Working with Children Checks are required.

• Interstate and International Volunteers

Planning and governance

• Volunteer Activity Plan guide
• Annual review guidance
• Managing Country Together
• Heritage Management
• Insurance and approved activity overview
• Funding and grants guidance

 

Privacy and people management

• Privacy and data protection overview

The privacy and data protection overview outlines how volunteer information is handled and protected

• Media consent

Volunteers must give consent before their image or story is used publicly. Written consent is recommended. Parks Victoria staff are required to seek consent before volunteer images or stories are used publicly and may contact a group leader to assist with consent where required.

• Grievance process overview

Most concerns can be resolved through early, respectful conversations at a local level. If a concern cannot be resolved informally, Parks Victoria’s grievance process provides a clear and confidential pathway for support and escalation.

• Reimbursements information

Parks Victoria does not usually reimburse out‑of‑pocket expenses. If reimbursements are offered, this will be clearly communicated in advance. Group‑managed reimbursements are handled separately from Parks Victoria.

Other info to consider:

• How to navigate a breach of volunteer T&Cs (ie. Preventative mechanisms, use T&Cs as reference, what is the escalation process, ranger involvement, etc).

 

Systems and tools

• ParkConnect portal

The system used to manage volunteer groups and activities

• Register or update Group Leader access

 

Extra support and sector resources

Volunteering Victoria

Victoria’s peak body for volunteering, offering guidance, training and bestpractice resources.
Volunteering Victoria

 

Volunteering Resource Hub

A national library of tools and templates covering incidents, grievances, safety and volunteer management.
Volunteering Resource Hub

 

Need a hand? Who to call

Sometimes its difficult to know who can help you best. Here’s a quick guide:

• Call your Contact Ranger for:
• Email Customer Service for: ParkConnect tech issues,

 

Meet the Volunteer Support Team