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If you are looking to make a meaningful contribution to the community, consider a volunteer role with the Community Visitor Scheme (CVS), where you can be a powerful advocate for people with disability and mental illness.
Community visitors are trained, independent volunteers who check on a person’s wellbeing, listen to their concerns and help ensure their rights and care needs are being met. The aim is simple: ensure people feel safe, heard and supported.
Recent regulatory changes mean the scheme will expand significantly in 2026, allowing community visitors to support people in private and non-government accommodation, in addition to the existing settings. This also means a large increase in the number of volunteers required to support the scheme.
For long-time volunteer Andrew, the role brings deep personal reward. “I think it’s a privilege to serve as a community visitor, it brings with it personal satisfaction,” he said.
The role draws on life experience, empathy and good communication - skills many people have developed over decades of work and community involvement.
Many current volunteers bring experience from health, education, government or community services.
Former mental health nurse and CVS volunteer Briony was looking for somewhere her skills and experience could be of value. “I find reward in being a trusted person for clients to communicate with and I enjoy advocating on their behalf,” she said.
“You get excellent training… and you work with a colleague. You do everything in pairs, so you’ve always got someone to back you up.
“I still feel very passionate about this service, and not only what I am able to contribute but the sense of purpose and belonging I receive from such a supportive organisation.”
Former CVS Advisory Committee Consumer Representative Ellie explains the difference this advocacy can make. “Community visitors can be there for you, walk beside you, and get information that you may not be able to get yourself.”
Why become a Community Visitor?
- use and further develop your skills and experience
- improve quality of life and care for others
- connect with like-minded people
- protect and uphold people’s rights
- advocate for better systems of care.
For Helen, volunteering with the scheme provides renewed purpose.
“When I retired, I still had a lot of energy and commitment to do something important that I cared about, and I found it through this scheme.
“Being able to have face-to-face contact is wonderful, and with the support staff too, I really enjoy that.”
Opportunities are available throughout South Australia, including:
- Metropolitan Adelaide
- Berri
- Mount Gambier
- Whyalla
- Port Lincoln
- Kangaroo Island
Find out more at communityvisitorscheme.sa.gov.au or call 1800 606 302.