Volunteer Opportunities

Your Time. Your Skills. Your Community. Together, We Can Make a Difference.

Volunteers are an important part of National MSA Research.

From helping at fundraising events to supporting community awareness activities, our volunteers contribute valuable time, experience and enthusiasm towards a shared mission.

National MSA Research was established to increase awareness of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and encourage progress towards better diagnosis, more effective treatments and ultimately a cure.

Whether you can contribute a few hours at an event or are interested in ongoing involvement, we welcome enquiries from people who share our commitment.

Find a Volunteer Opportunity That Suits You

We recognise that everyone has different interests, skills and availability.

Some people enjoy working directly with event guests, while others prefer administrative, creative or behind-the-scenes activities.

Volunteer opportunities depend on our current activities, organisational needs and the requirements of each role.

Below are examples of the different ways volunteers may be able to contribute.

Event Volunteers

Help Bring Our Fundraising Events to Life.

Our fundraising events rely on the generosity of people who contribute their time to help create an enjoyable and welcoming experience.

Depending on the event, opportunities may include the following roles.

Guest Welcome and Registration

Help welcome guests as they arrive, assist with event registration and provide general information.

Tasks may include checking tickets, directing guests to seating areas and answering basic event questions.

Floor Assistants and Event Runners

Support the smooth operation of an event by assisting guests and helping the event team.

At trivia nights, this may include distributing or collecting answer sheets, assisting with game activities and communicating with the event organisers.

Raffle and Fundraising Assistants

Help with approved fundraising activities, such as raffle ticket sales, merchandise or other event fundraising opportunities.

Some roles may involve handling payments or using electronic systems.

Appropriate instructions and authorisation will be provided where necessary.

Trivia Markers and Scorers

Assist the trivia team with marking answer sheets, recording scores and maintaining accurate competition results.

These roles suit people who enjoy working carefully with information and supporting team activities.

Auction and Prize Assistants

Support approved auction activities, prize displays and winner arrangements.

Tasks may include assisting with item information, organising prizes and helping guests understand the relevant procedures.

Audio-Visual and Technical Support

Help operate or support presentation equipment, sound systems, projectors and other event technology.

These opportunities may suit volunteers with technical skills or experience in event production.

Setup and Pack-Down Teams

Assist with preparing venues before an event and restoring them afterwards.

Activities may include arranging tables and chairs, preparing decorations, displaying signs and organising event materials.

Some tasks may involve physical activity, and suitable arrangements will depend on individual capabilities and venue requirements.

Event Coordination and Hosting

Some events may require experienced volunteers to assist with coordinating activities, hosting games or supporting other volunteers.

These roles can involve additional responsibilities, communication skills or relevant experience.

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities

Support Our Mission Beyond Event Day.

In addition to event-based volunteering, National MSA Research may have opportunities for people interested in contributing on a more regular basis.

These opportunities will depend on our organisational priorities and available roles.

Administration and Organisational Support

Assist with suitable administrative activities, information preparation, records and general organisational tasks.

Some roles may involve confidential information and require additional training, screening or authorised system access.

Fundraising and Event Planning

Contribute ideas and practical assistance towards organising approved fundraising events and community initiatives.

This may include helping with preparation, coordination, communication and event materials.

Awareness and Community Engagement

Support appropriate activities that help more people learn about Multiple System Atrophy.

This may include assisting with awareness campaigns, community information activities and the distribution of approved resources.

Communications and Creative Support

Depending on our needs, opportunities may arise for people with skills in writing, photography, graphic design, digital communications or other creative areas.

Content published on behalf of National MSA Research must be appropriately reviewed and approved.

Specialist and Professional Skills

We welcome enquiries from people interested in contributing relevant professional experience.

Depending on organisational requirements, this could include expertise in administration, technology, fundraising, events, communications or other appropriate fields.

Expressing an interest does not guarantee that a suitable position is currently available.

One-Off and Regular Volunteering

We understand that not everyone can make the same time commitment.

Some volunteers may prefer to help at an occasional fundraising event.

Others may be interested in contributing to ongoing organisational activities.

The availability, duration and frequency of volunteer roles will vary.

When discussing opportunities, we encourage you to tell us about your preferred availability and any circumstances we should consider.

Do I Need Previous Experience?

Not every volunteer role requires previous experience.

Some activities involve straightforward tasks that can be explained through a briefing or induction.

Other responsibilities, particularly those involving technology, finances, confidential information or event coordination, may require specific skills or additional preparation.

We aim to match volunteers with appropriate activities based on their interests, abilities and the requirements of the role.

Who Can Volunteer?

We welcome expressions of interest from people who support the mission and values of National MSA Research.

Available roles may have requirements relating to age, experience, physical tasks, safety or other responsibilities.

Certain activities may require a Working with Children Check, National Police Check or other appropriate screening.

The checks required will depend on the role and applicable legal or organisational requirements.

Where relevant, volunteers will also need to complete suitable induction, training and policy acknowledgements.

What to Expect When You Volunteer

We aim to provide volunteers with clear information about the roles they undertake.

Depending on the position, this may include:

  • A description of the role and its responsibilities.
  • Information about the activity, event or work location.
  • An explanation of relevant safety requirements.
  • Appropriate induction or task instructions.
  • Contact details for a coordinator or authorised representative.
  • Information about confidentiality and professional conduct.
  • Guidance on reporting incidents or concerns.

We encourage volunteers to ask questions if they are uncertain about a task or responsibility.

A Respectful and Inclusive Environment

National MSA Research values respectful communication, cooperation and inclusion.

We recognise that volunteers come from different backgrounds and bring a wide range of skills and experiences.

We aim to provide appropriate opportunities for people to contribute while recognising individual circumstances and accessibility needs.

If you require adjustments or have questions about the requirements of a particular role, we encourage you to discuss them with us.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteering with National MSA Research involves representing a charitable organisation with care and professionalism.

Volunteers are expected to follow applicable instructions, policies and lawful directions relevant to their roles.

This may include maintaining confidentiality, respecting personal information, following safety procedures and treating others with dignity and respect.

Volunteers must not undertake activities or make commitments on behalf of National MSA Research without appropriate authorisation.

How to Express Your Interest

Tell us how you would like to volunteer and what types of opportunities interest you.

Completing this form does not guarantee an immediate volunteer placement. The form opens in a new tab.

Interested in becoming a volunteer?

Step 1 — Tell Us About Yourself

Complete the available Volunteer Application or Registration Form.

We may ask about your interests, experience, availability and preferred types of volunteering.

Step 2 — Opportunity Matching

Our team will consider your expression of interest against available opportunities and organisational requirements.

We may contact you to discuss your preferences or request further information.

Step 3 — Appropriate Checks and Induction

If a suitable role is identified, any required screening, documents, agreements or training will need to be completed before commencing relevant duties.

Step 4 — Get Involved

Once the appropriate arrangements are completed, volunteers may be invited to participate in an event, activity or ongoing role.

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee an immediate volunteer placement.

Volunteer Recognition

We appreciate the time and effort contributed by volunteers.

Their support can make an important difference to the successful delivery of events, awareness activities and other organisational initiatives.

National MSA Research values the generosity of people who choose to share their time and abilities with our community.

We are grateful for every contribution.

Volunteer With Us

Whether you’re interested in helping at a trivia night, assisting with a gala or contributing behind the scenes, your skills and enthusiasm may have a place within National MSA Research.

If you are unsure which opportunity would suit you, we welcome a general expression of interest.

Our team can discuss the types of activities available and the relevant requirements.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

National MSA Research was established in October 2024 following the loss of Adrian Klep to Multiple System Atrophy.

His family’s experience inspired a commitment to raising awareness of a condition that remains unfamiliar to many Australians.

Our volunteers help bring that commitment into the community.

Every event supported, every task completed and every conversation about MSA contributes towards a shared purpose.

Your Time Matters. Your Contribution Matters. Our Community Matters.

Volunteer Enquiries

For questions about volunteering or expressing your interest in joining National MSA Research, please contact:

National MSA Research
Rare Neurological Disease Research Ltd
ABN: 55 681 229 032

Email: info@nationalmsaresearch.org.au
Website: www.nationalmsaresearch.org.au

Combatting MSA Together — Through Volunteering, Community and Shared Purpose.