If I am registered, how soon will I get an assignment?
There is no easy answer to this question. If there is demand for your skills you may receive an invitation quickly, or you may have to wait for some months for an opportunity.
Why is a Police Check important?
Federal Police Checks are a requirement for all ABV Volunteers. The Australian Government works with host governments to minimise the possibility of introducing any kind of criminal activity into their countries.
So if I’m successfully registered, what is the next step?
When an assignment application is received from a client, and is approved by Head Office, we issue email invitations to all suitably-qualified volunteers registered on our database. Those who are available and interested are expected to respond to ABV Head Office within two weeks. The CVs of several volunteers are then forwarded to the client who makes the final selection. We inform unsuccessful candidates by email. You are also welcome to check the Upcoming Assignments page of our website, which is updated weekly. If you did not receive an invitation for an assignment you think you might be suitable for, please contact us and we will give you more information about that assignment.
How will I know if an assignment is suitable for my skills?
The first step is to read the assignment description and try to make an assessment of how well your skills and experience matches the clients stated needs. If you are unsure, you are welcome to contact the ABV Project Manager who will have a good idea of what type of person they are looking for. Clients will then make an assessment of your skills based on your CV. It is therefore very important that your CV clearly states all your areas of expertise and experience.
How many assignments can I do?
This depends on the demand for your skill sets. If there is a high demand you may receive invitations to undertake several assignments. However, we attempt to find opportunities for as many registered volunteers as possible. Preference may be given to volunteers who have not undertaken an assignment in the last 12 months.
Is volunteering overseas safe?
The safety of our volunteers is a priority. We do not work in areas experiencing active conflicts (wars), and we do not send people into dangerous or unstable areas. ABV works in countries where there is reasonable political stability, and the basic infrastructure is in place for the country to develop economically. We follow the advice provided in the travel advisories posted on the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and we liaise with AusAID and our In-Country Managers regularly to ensure we are up-to-date with our country information. Should an emergency situation arise (e.g. war, political unrest, natural disaster) we will evacuate volunteers immediately.
What happens if I get sick while on assignment?
It is not uncommon for first-time volunteers to experience a bout of mild illness in reaction to unfamiliar foods or water. Usually these illnesses can be treated with standard drugs found in most first-aid kits. Should an accident or serious illness occur the In-Country Manager will give advice and assistance about the best medical treatment available. On rare occasions volunteers are medically evacuated.