**About the Role**
South Port Day Links (SPDL) is looking for confident, experienced and responsible volunteer drivers to operate our 12-seat minibus and support our group outings for older people and people with disabilities.
This role is particularly suited to people who have previous experience driving a 12-seat mini bus and/or feel comfortable transporting older passengers and people with varying mobility needs.
The MiniBus Volunteer Driver is responsible for safely transporting participants to and from their homes and various social activities and destinations around Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula.
Working alongside a Social Outings Support Volunteer, the driver plays an important role in ensuring participants enjoy safe, comfortable and enjoyable outings while helping them remain socially connected and engaged with their community.
Please note that SPDL's group transport does not involve transporting passengers who use wheelchairs.

**Types of Outings**
SPDL currently organises three types of weekly group outings:

* *Lunch Group Outings:* Transporting participants to various cafés and restaurants around Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, providing opportunities for social connection and shared experiences.
* *Shopping Outings:* Transporting older people to local supermarkets, allowing them to access shops and complete their weekly shopping.
* *Places of Interest Outings:* Transporting participants to places of interest around Melbourne, including museums, gardens, historic buildings, art galleries and other local attractions.

**Key Duties and Responsibilities**

* Safely operate SPDL's 12-seat mini bus, transporting participants to and from their homes and outing destinations.




* Follow the allocated driving schedule and planned itinerary (using a phone app) to collect and transport passengers safely and efficiently.
* Ensure passengers board and exit the vehicle safely, working alongside the Social Outings Support Volunteer where assistance is required.
* Ensure all passengers are comfortably seated and wearing seatbelts before commencing the journey.
* Drive responsibly and confidently, taking into consideration the needs and comfort of older passengers and people with disabilities.
* Follow road rules, SPDL transport procedures and road safety requirements at all times.
* Work collaboratively with the Social Outings Support Volunteer to ensure the safety, comfort and wellbeing of participants throughout the outing.
* Maintain the cleanliness and general condition of the vehicle and report any maintenance or safety concerns to the Volunteer Program Coordinator.
* Communicate any delays, incidents or concerns regarding passengers or the vehicle to the relevant SPDL staff.

**Time Commitment**
A minimum commitment of one outing per week, for approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on the type of activity and destination.

**Skills and Requirements**
We are particularly interested in volunteers who:





* Have previous experience driving a 12-seat mini bus or similar passenger vehicle.
* Feel confident and comfortable manoeuvring and operating a larger vehicle, including in suburban streets, car parks and busy traffic conditions.
* Hold a current and valid driver's licence appropriate for the vehicle.
* Have a good driving record and a robust commitment to road safety.
* Are comfortable transporting older people and people with disabilities, understanding the importance of careful, smooth and considerate driving.
* Are patient, responsible, reliable and punctual.
* Have good communication skills and enjoy working as part of a team.
* Are willing to undertake a practical driving assessment and familiarisation with SPDL's vehicle and transport procedures.

**What We Offer**

* The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older people and people with disabilities.
* Opportunities to visit local attractions and enjoy community activities as part of the volunteer role.
* Ongoing support and guidance from the SPDL Volunteer Program Coordinator and the SPDL team.

By volunteering as an SPDL MiniBus Driver, you will play an essential role in helping older people and people with disabilities access social activities, maintain their independence and stay connected with their community.

** Category **
Community Services

** Commitment **
Regular - more than 6 months

** Type Of Work **
Disability Support,Driving & Transportation,Seniors & Aged Care,

** Time Required **
A minimum commitment of one outing per week, for approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on the type of activity and destination.

📌 Minibus Volunteer Driver (Port Melbourne)
🏢 South Port Day Links
📍 Port Melbourne