Get Involved
Give Your Time to Country
AAEF is building a volunteer framework that matches the right people with the right opportunities as our programs grow. Register your expression of interest now and we'll be in touch as the framework develops.
Ongoing Support
Support Doesn't Stop at 12 Weeks
Every AAEF graduate leaves with a dedicated mentor, a 24/7 support line, and a clear pathway forward. This isn't a program that drops people at the finish line.
A Dedicated Mentor
Every graduate is assigned a personal mentor before they leave the retreat — someone who knows their story and stays with them through the transition.
Always Available
Monthly check-ins keep graduates on track, and the line is open 24/7. If something comes up, we're here.
Business House Pathway
Graduates ready to pursue enterprise have ongoing support through the Business House — planning, financial literacy, and access to AAEF's network.
Life Skills Support
The skills and routines built during the retreat don't disappear. The original program team remains a point of contact long after graduation.
Pre-Operational — Expressions of Interest Open
AAEF's retreats and enterprise divisions are in development. We are not yet placing volunteers on-site, but we are building our register now so that when the time comes, we can match the right people with the right roles. Registering today means you'll be among the first we contact.
Where You Can Help
Volunteer Roles We're Building Towards
Mentors & Elders
Aboriginal Elders, community leaders, and experienced mentors who can provide cultural guidance, life wisdom, and personal support to program participants on their journey through the Life Skills Retreat and beyond.
Skills Advisors
Professionals from law, accounting, health, education, and social work who can contribute their expertise to support participants, advise on enterprise development, or assist with governance and compliance.
Event & Retreat Support
Hands-on volunteers who can assist with the operational side of retreats and community events — logistics, facilitation support, catering, transport coordination, and general on-the-ground assistance.
Corporate Skilled Volunteering
Corporate teams and individuals who want to contribute professional skills — project management, marketing, IT, construction, trades, or agriculture — aligned to AAEF's seven Enterprise Divisions.
Our Commitment to Volunteers
Culturally Safe. Elder Governed. Purposeful.
Culturally governed
All volunteer engagement will be overseen by AAEF's Elders Council to ensure cultural safety and appropriateness for participants and community.
Purposeful placement
We match volunteers to roles where their skills and background genuinely contribute — not just to fill numbers. Quality over quantity.
Transparent timeline
We will communicate clearly about when opportunities become available. Registering now means you're on the list — we won't leave you guessing.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I need to commit?
There is no fixed minimum commitment. AAEF will work with you to find a role that fits your availability — whether that is a few hours a month as a skills advisor, or a more regular commitment as a mentor. We will be clear about what each role requires before you confirm your involvement.
Do I need to be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander to volunteer?
No. AAEF welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Non-Indigenous volunteers play an important role as skills advisors, corporate partners, and event support. All volunteer engagement is overseen by AAEF's Elders Council to ensure cultural safety and appropriateness.
Where are the programs located?
AAEF's initial programs will operate in Queensland and Victoria. As the organisation grows, we plan to expand to other states and territories. When you register your interest, let us know your location and we will match you to opportunities in your region.
Do I need prior experience working with Aboriginal communities?
Prior experience is valued but not required. AAEF will provide cultural orientation and guidance for all volunteers before they engage with participants or community. What matters most is a genuine commitment to listening, learning, and contributing with respect.
What training or induction will I receive?
All volunteers will receive a cultural safety induction overseen by AAEF's Elders Council before commencing any role. Depending on your role, you may also receive specific training in trauma-informed practice, program facilitation, or enterprise mentoring. AAEF covers the cost of all required induction and training.
When will volunteer placements begin?
AAEF is currently in its establishment phase. We are not yet placing volunteers on-site, but we are building our register now. When programs open, registered volunteers will be the first we contact. Registering today means you will not miss out when the time comes.
Register Your Interest
Expression of Interest
Tell us about yourself and how you'd like to contribute. We'll be in touch as volunteer opportunities become available.
Not ready to volunteer? There are other ways to support AAEF.
Donate, partner with us, or spread the word about the work we're doing.