Orientation for new volunteers

This guide outlines key considerations for planning and delivering effective orientation and induction for new volunteers. It explains how structured onboarding helps volunteers understand their role, responsibilities and rights within an organisation.

The resource supports Volunteering Involving Organisations to provide consistent, welcoming and informative induction experiences that support volunteer confidence, engagement and retention.

Benefits for volunteer managers

• supports consistent and effective volunteer induction.
• helps clarify roles, expectations and responsibilities.
• supports volunteer confidence, safety and engagement.
• contributes to positive volunteer experiences and retention.

How to apply this resource

This guide is most useful when designing or reviewing volunteer induction processes, onboarding new volunteers, or strengthening planning for recruitment and early volunteer engagement.