headspace Youth Reference Group Volunteers

Volunteer Position 6 month or 12-month tenure opportunities available Make Your Voice Heard – advocate for young people in your community ABOUT US Gateway Health is a community health service providing health and welfare services to individuals, families and communities across North East Victoria and parts of southern New south Wales.? We are a not-for-profit Company limited by guarantee and a registered Community Health Service under the Health Services Act 1988 (Vic). The organisation employs over 380 staff providing a range of primary health and community services across the Ovens Murray region in North East Victoria and parts of Southern New South Wales. Gateway Health serves all people and is committed to improving individual and population health outcomes. We do this by providing health care and support to individuals and communities in times of need, and by actively working with our partners to address the social and environmental determinants of health. headspace Albury Wodonga commenced operations in January 2015, based at Gateway Health in Wodonga. headspace Albury Wodonga model brings together key organisations experienced in the delivery of primary care, mental health, alcohol and drug services, health and wellbeing and vocational education for young people. In 2018 headspace Albury Wodonga expanded its services to establish a satellite site in Wangaratta. The headspace Albury Wodonga and headspace Wangaratta consortium comprises membership from Albury Wodonga Health, Albury Wodonga Aboriginal Health Services, The Personal Group, Sureway, Junction Support Services, Mind Australia, YES Unlimited, The Centre, NESAY, The Bridge and Gateway Health as the lead agent. This strategic alliance aims to establish a community of collaborative youth services improving access for young people aged 12-25 years in the early intervention of mental health, work school and study, general health and wellbeing or and alcohol and other drug issues. ABOUT THE ROLE Join a team of like-minded peers to support headspace Albury Wodonga and headspace Wangaratta in improving services to better meet the needs of young people in our communities. As a volunteer member of the Youth Reference Group, you will engage in youth advocacy by participating in monthly meetings—held alternately between Albury Wodonga and Wangaratta, with online attendance options—focusing on planning, discussion, and collaboration. You will also have opportunities for training, professional development, and providing feedback on service operations while actively connecting with the community by organising and attending events. YOUTH REFERENCE GROUP FAQs What is the Youth Reference Group (YRG)? The YRG is made up of young people aged 16 - 25 passionate about mental health and well-being. The YRG hopes to : Provide you with the opportunity to have input into the strategic direction of headspace services, and local mental health services. Allow a way for the voice of young people to be heard and acted upon. Provide opportunities for skills and leadership development and provide experience in; media, marketing, communication, and advocacy skills. Support you to lead projects locally Allow young people to direct youth mental health policy development Demonstrate good practice by involving young people in the youth, welfare and health sector What is involved in the role? Young People on the YRG will have the opportunity to be involved in several ways including : Media spokespeople and community engagement opportunities Lead local projects Marketing, promotion, and community awareness activities Involvement in mental health related focus groups and consultations Evaluation and research Policy and advocacy What’s the time commitment? We’re excited to offer two appointment options for YRG members – a 6-month or 12-month commitment. Our monthly meetings are held on Wednesday afternoons and can be attended either in person or online, making it flexible for everyone. Between meetings and events, we stay connected through a Facebook Messenger group chat and email, ensuring you’re always in the loop. Regular participation in these discussions will help keep the group vibrant and engaged. You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to focus groups and project work aligned with your interests, giving you a chance to make a meaningful impact. As a volunteer role, there’s a mix of paid opportunities for certain events and volunteering your time for subcommittees, projects, and other activities. Your contributions are incredibly valuable and help shape the success of the group. ABOUT YOU We are seeking young people aged 16–25 from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about improving the mental health and wellbeing of young people in the Albury Wodonga and Wangaratta communities. No previous experience is required—just a genuine desire to contribute and make a difference. Ideal candidates will prioritise the wellbeing of young people, respect confidentiality, commit to regular attendance, and bring ongoing, passionate input to our service operations. This role is perfect for those who value teamwork, collaboration, and inclusivity. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with qualities like kindness, honesty, social awareness, and good time management, will support your success in this role. You’ll contribute to planning and delivering youth-focused events, promotional activities, and service improvements while advocating for young people in our community. We want the Youth Reference Group to reflect the diversity of our community. We welcome applications from all young people, especially those who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, come from different cultural backgrounds, are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, have lived in rural or remote areas, or have experienced homelessness. Whether you have personal experience with mental health challenges, have supported friends or family, or simply want to make a positive impact, we would love to hear from you. GATEWAY HEALTH CULTURE Gateway Health promotes a learning culture that encourages innovation and initiative and recognises our staff as our greatest asset. Gateway Health is committed to creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We believe that a workforce that recognises and celebrates diversity will best meet the health and well‑being needs of all people we serve within our community. Required Checks Criminal History Check Over 18 years old : Working with Children Check both VIC and NSW (Volunteer) If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application. We will then work with you to identify the best way to assist you through the recruitment process. All personal information will be kept confidential in compliance with relevant privacy legislation. #J-18808-Ljbffr