Who are our Volunteers?

Volunteers are adults (aged 18 +) who care about children. They may be married or single, with or without children of our own. They commit time, love and enthusiasm to develop a long-term, ongoing relationship with a child. Volunteers may specify whether they want a boy or girl, and an age range. Keeping requirements to a minimum will speed up the linking process.

No formal qualifications are needed, however volunteers must have –

• A genuine liking for children
• Caring, non-judgmental attitude
• The time and willingness to develop a long term relationship with their niece or nephew
• Respect for the relationship between parents and children
• The ability to encourage children and young people in a positive way

How does the linking process work?

Once a volunteer is screened and accepted into the program, the Co-ordinator reviews the children on our waiting list, to identify the best possible match. The Co-ordinator considers such things as where you live (in relation to the child) your interests and lifestyle. The children accepted on our waiting list are aged between one year and twelve years, with most being of primary school age.

Blue Card and Working with Children Check

Each volunteer is required to take part in a screening process before being accepted as a volunteer Aunt or Uncle. As a part of this step, all volunteers who do not possess a “blue card” will be required to authorise the Aunties and Uncles program to apply for one on their behalf.

Blue Cards are issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian. They help to assess whether a person is eligible to work with children and young people in Queensland.

To determine a person's eligibility to hold a blue card, the Commission conducts a Working with Children Check. This is a detailed national check of a person's criminal history, including any charges or convictions, as well as any disciplinary information held by certain professional organisations and police investigation information into allegations of serious child-related sexual offences.

All adult members of your household will need to apply for and receive a Blue Card before you can be accepted as a volunteer Aunt or Uncle.

The Blue Card and Working with Children Check are free of charge.

How do I find out more?

Step One

Watch this short film to learn more about the Aunties and Uncles Program. (25MB Video file - ADSL Connection is recommended)

Step Two

We have developed an information pack for people who are considering becoming a volunteer Aunt or Uncle. This contains information about the way the program works, including answers to frequently asked questions or go to the Contact Us page.

Step Three

Attend one of our induction nights. These regular sessions are presented by our Co-ordinator and a volunteer aunt or uncle. It is a great opportunity to hear more about the program and to get answers to any question you may have.

To find out about our next induction night, please Contact Us.

If you wish, you may print and complete an application for a Blue Card prior to attending the induction night. Please also bring proof of identification such as your driver licence or passport. Application Form