About us
The Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge was established in **** to provide temporary refuge and find new homes for abandoned, abused, stray and unwanted cats and dogs.
The Refuge is managed by an unpaid, elected committee, and run by a small staffing compliment and a large dedicated group of volunteers including Kennel and Cattery Teams, Facility Management, Administration Support, Foster Carers, SCARS Markets, and a range of fundraising and awareness events conducted throughout the year.
Position Purpose
This position is responsible for the delivery of a diverse volunteer program that supports the activities of SCARS.
The Volunteer Coordinator will work collaboratively with staff, volunteers and volunteer program partners to provide effective planning, implementation and evaluation of volunteer programs and services.
The position is responsible for recruiting, training, and managing 200+ volunteers to ensure SCARS operates effectively in line with its mission of improving animal welfare.
The role ensures volunteers are engaged, secure, and supported, and that all activities comply with legislative requirements, SCARS policies, and the National Standards for Volunteer Involvement.
The Volunteer Coordinator will also manage the emergency Maintenance program, which includes a nominal financial delegation as per the Authority Matrix.
This Role is based on site at the refuge and is a Full-Time role.
Generally, the days are Monday-Friday with the flexibility to work occasionally on a weekend.
Key Responsibilities
Organise and manage the SCARS Volunteer program including recruitment, onboarding, training, retention,



and recognition of volunteers.
Maintain all information and confidential records relating to new and existing volunteers, including the volunteer database, training, recognition and disciplinary actions.
Develop and maintain a range of written materials for volunteers including the Volunteer Handbooks
Assign volunteers to roles based on skills, availability, and organisational needs.
Maintain regular communication with volunteers.
Liaise with the Refuge Manager to resolve volunteer management issues promptly including complaints, conflict, disciplinary procedures, and non-compliance with Policies and Procedures
Support the Fundraising Coordinator and Marketing Lead with allocating volunteers to internal and external fundraising and promotional events.
Prepare a monthly report for the manager to present to the Management Committee.
Coordinate the dissemination of policies and procedures to the Volunteer base.
Work with the Animal Behavioural Trainer and Animal Support Officer to develop and implement volunteer training programs.
Coordinate facility maintenance and repairs.
Actively support, show, and always adopt SCARS organisational values, whilst performing the requirements of the role.




Undertake other reasonable duties as directed by the Refuge Manager, including meetings and networking.
Qualifications
· Current driver's licence (essential)
· Willing to obtain a first aid certificate if not already qualified (essential)
· Certificate IV in Volunteer Program Coordination, Community Services, or related field (desirable)
· Formal WHS or risk management training (desirable)
Experience
· Delivering volunteer programs and effectively managing and motivating volunteers
· Recruitment, training, and retention
· Effectively managing conflict
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and volunteer management systems
· Minimum of 1-3 years' experience managing and supervising others
· Understanding of volunteer WHS obligations and risk management
· Knowledge of Animal Care and Protection Act requirements
· Familiarity with volunteer management best practices and National Standards for Volunteer Involvement
Skills & Competencies
· Professional, positive, and approachable manner
· Passionate about animal welfare and community service
· Strong organisational, time management skills and able to manage competing priorities.
· Able to maintain focus whilst working in a busy high-distraction environment
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, adaptable to diverse audiences
· Resilient and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
· Ability to develop effective and efficient systems and processes.
Applications close 5.00pm Wednesday the 29th of July.
Please limit cover letters to 1 page.

📌 Volunteer Co-Ordinator (Queensland)
🏢 Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge
📍 Queensland