Through conversation, companionship, and shared experiences, volunteers play an important role in helping reduce social isolation and creating meaningful moments for people living with dementia.

To build trust, familiarity, and genuine relationships with participants, we ask volunteers to make an ongoing commitment. By volunteering, you'll help create a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment where people can feel valued, connected, and supported.

Dementia Australia Day Program in Darwin

is based in our dementia-friendly space in Winnellie and occasionally visits local community locations, including parks, gardens, cafés, museums, and galleries. The program provides opportunities for people living with dementia to enjoy social connection, meaningful activities, and time away from their usual routine in a supportive environment.

The program also provides valuable respite opportunities for carers.

About Dementia Australia

Dementia Australia is the national peak body supporting people of all ages living with all forms of dementia, along with their families and carers. We provide advocacy, support services, education, and information.

Social connection plays an important role in maintaining well-being and quality of life for people living with dementia. People experiencing cognitive changes can be at greater risk of loneliness, social isolation, and reduced opportunities to engage with others.

Through inclusive social experiences, compassionate support, and person-centred care, we help people remain engaged, connected, and involved in their communities.

Our volunteers play an essential role in helping people:

- Live meaningful and connected lives
- Build friendships and social connections
- Feel accepted, safe, and included
- Maintain a sense of belonging and purpose
- Reduce social isolation and loneliness
- Continue participating in community life




- Support their overall well-being and quality of life

The impact of genuine conversation, kindness, and compassion can make a significant difference in the lives of people living with dementia.

As a volunteer, you'll support trained Dementia Australia staff and help create an engaging and welcoming group environment. You may:

- Spend time chatting and building connections with participants
- Encourage participation and social interaction
- Assist with group activities and shared experiences
- Support recreational and community activities
- Share your own interests, hobbies, or skills with the group
- Help create a positive and inclusive atmosphere

Do you have a hobby or interest you'd love to share?

Whether it's music, gardening, storytelling, games, art, or simply enjoying a conversation over a cup of tea, your unique experiences can help create meaningful moments for others.

The Dementia Day Program operates Monday to Friday, and volunteers can choose a day and time that suits their schedule. Even a few hours can make a meaningful difference.

As a Dementia Australia volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to:

- Be part of the national peak body for dementia
- Develop recent skills and gain valuable experience
- Meet and connect with like-minded people
- Gain a greater understanding of dementia and available supports
- Build confidence in engaging with and supporting people living with dementia
- Help contribute to our vision of a world without dementia discrimination

Volunteers are supported through:

- Role-specific orientation and training




- Ongoing learning opportunities
- A supportive and safe volunteering environment
- Recognition and appreciation for the contribution you make

Volunteering is a meaningful way to give your time while creating genuine connections and improving the quality of life of others.

We'd love to hear from you if you have:

- A warm, welcoming, and patient approach
- A genuine interest in connecting with others
- Great communication and listening skills
- Compassion, empathy, and respect for people from diverse backgrounds
- A willingness to provide practical support to participants and staff
- The ability to commit to an ongoing volunteer roster
- Experience supporting someone living with dementia is desirable, but not essential.

Volunteers will be required to:

- Be over 18 years of age
- Commit to an ongoing roster
- Participate in an interview
- Complete reference and National Police checks (at Dementia Australia's cost)
- Attend induction and orientation sessions
- Participate in ongoing learning and training opportunities

Category

Seniors & Aged Care

Commitment

Regular - less than 6 months

Type Of Work

Arts, Craft & Photography,Companionship & Social Support,Disability Support,Seniors & Aged Care,

Time Required

Ideally, volunteers can commit 2–4 hours per shift, with the program running from 10:00 am to approx 2:00 pm. Activities may take place at our Winnellie centre or at a pre-arranged community location within the Darwin and Palmerston area, where volunteers may meet the group on the day.

In addition to supporting the Darwin team with activity planning and group engagement.

Training

To assist you to be confident with this role we provide flexible induction and orientation. Volunteers need to complete our flexible, online induction prior to starting the role.

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📌 Dementia Community Connector & Companion (Darwin)
🏢 Dementia Australia
📍 Darwin