Volunteering as a Lifeline Crisis Supporter is a meaningful and rewarding experience. In this role, you’ll provide vital support to people facing their most challenging moments, making a real difference when they need it most. Our comprehensive training and application process ensures you feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way. Join us and be part of a compassionate community dedicated to helping others.
The Process to Become an Accredited Crisis Supporter (overview)
Volunteering as a Crisis Supporter requires dedication, preparation, and a strong commitment to helping others. Here are the steps to becoming a crisis supporter with Lifeline.
- Apply to become a Crisis Supporter
- Once you’ve successfully applied, you will be invited to select a training group. Lifeline hosts up to 8 training groups annually.
- Complete training and Internship
- Enjoy a rewarding and fulfilling life as a Lifeline Crisis Support Volunteer, making a difference to those all around Australia.
What’s involved (all the detail)
Application Process:
Step 1: Submit an Application of Interest to become a Crisis Supporter.
Step 2: Your application will be reviewed to assess suitability for this vital role. We’ll notify you whether this opportunity aligns with your skills and goals.
Step 3: If successful, we’ll invite you to an interview and provide details about upcoming training groups.
The selection process is rigorous to ensure suitability for this critical role. All applicants are assessed through an application and interview process.
Training Commitment
To become a Lifeline Accredited Crisis Supporter you must successfully complete 3 stages of training:
Stage 1: The initial Crisis Support Worker Training (CSWT) covers ten topics, delivered over 7 – 12 weeks, depending on the training group selected.
Completion of the Crisis Support Worker Training (CSWT) is a requirement to become an Accredited Crisis Supporter Volunteer. Attendance is mandatory at all training days to successfully complete program.
Lifeline Direct Centres deliver the accredited training CHCSS00113 Crisis Support Skill Set on behalf of Lifeline Australia RTO 88036, and the CSWT includes the three Units of Competency listed below:
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CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
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CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
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CHCCCS028 Provide client-centred support to people in crisis
Stage 2: Requires at least 16 phone hours of placement over a 2-month period
Stage 3: Internship requires at least 56 phone hours over a 7-9-month period.
Training Costs
Lifeline is an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 88036) and charges a minimal training fee (which is primarily subsidised) to help cover the significant costs of instructor time, materials, and accreditation. This allows us to provide quality training while keeping it accessible for volunteers who play a crucial role in supporting our service.
- A $175 non-refundable deposit is due upon confirming your preferred training group.
- The remaining $375 must be paid before the commencement of Topic 5 in the training program.
Ongoing Volunteer Commitment
- Ongoing, a minimum commitment of 4 hours per fortnight is required for volunteer shifts.
- We ask for a 2-year commitment as a volunteer.
We recommend you watch our Information Session before applying >> click here.
About the Organisation
Lifeline Direct (LLD) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lifeline Australia. LLD operates Lifeline Centres in regions including the Hunter, Central Coast, Eastern Suburbs-Bondi, New England North West, Northern NSW, Geelong & South West Victoria, Western Melbourne and Northern Melbourne.
Lifeline Australia is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 88036) registered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). Lifeline Centres provide training under the Lifeline Australia RTO and offer nationally accredited training under the Vocational Education and Training (VET) Framework.
About the Role
Crisis Supporters play a crucial role in providing emotional support and ensuring the safety of callers to the 13 11 14 Crisis Line. You’ll offer a compassionate listening ear, assess suicide risk, and take appropriate steps to support or assist those in distress.
This is a deeply rewarding and skilled volunteer opportunity that requires extensive training and a commitment to regular shifts. This preparation ensures you are confident, skilled, and fully equipped to provide critical support when it matters most.
For more details, refer to the:
Role Highlights:
- Being a Lifeline Crisis Support Worker is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives during their most challenging moments.
- You’ll learn to provide support to callers experiencing crisis and or suicidal thoughts and actively listen to them. You can help individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to seek help, ensuring their safety and providing pathways to ongoing care where needed.
- Additionally, this role offers a unique chance to develop your communication and interpersonal skills, work as part of a dedicated team, and engage in meaningful training that enhances your ability to support others through Lifeline’s Crisis Support Workplace Training (CSWT). This unique training equips you with the skills to provide short-term, one-off support to individuals in crisis.
Information Sessions
Our information sessions are a great way to learn more about the Crisis Supporter role, training process, and expectations. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions. We also offer a pre-recorded option if you can’t make a session. We recommend attending or viewing an information session before applying.
Have Questions?
Email us at ldtraining@lifeline.org.au for more information.
As a Crisis Supporter, you’ll provide life-changing support to people in their darkest moments, offering hope when it’s needed most. Your time and compassion ensure that no one in our community faces a crisis alone. Take the first step today—Apply now below
