Information for prospective MHPE volunteers: The volunteer journey

Transform lives, including your own.

Why volunteer with MHPE?

Men’s Health Peer Education (MHPE) is a national volunteer health literacy program aimed at raising the veteran community’s awareness of men’s health issues, the specific health and wellbeing impacts of military service and the benefits of early intervention. The program encourages veterans to adopt healthy behaviours, seek support early and share responsibility for their own health and wellbeing.

As a volunteer for the program, you’ll join a passionate team that contributes to improving the health and wellbeing of fellow veterans. Our volunteers operate under the following values:

• Commitment: an unwavering dedication to our aims and the community we serve.
• Empathy: a deep understanding of the challenges faced by veterans, enabling genuine support.
• Expertise: armed with knowledge and continuous learning to offer credible guidance.
• Leadership: the ability to inspire and encourage positive healthy behaviours and choices in others.

Your journey as an MHPE Volunteer

How to become an MHPE volunteer

1. Application: The first step is applying to become a volunteer by contacting us through our website. You can download the Volunteer Information Kit below or reach out to us at MensHealth [at] dva.gov.au (MensHealth[at]dva[dot]gov[dot]au) and we'll guide you through understanding our mission and the impact you can make.

Download the Volunteer Information Kit:

• MHPE Volunteer Application Form, which includes, Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities, Selection Criteria and Volunteer Code of Conduct
• MHPE Volunteer Reference Form
• MHPE Volunteer Agreement (to be signed after induction training)
• MHPE Program Information Flyer 

You can also contact an MHPE Volunteer Representative for an overview from an experienced active volunteer in the program. Their contact details can be found here.

2. Discussion: We will reach out to further discuss your application, your drive to volunteer, the skills you bring to the role, and what volunteering opportunities the program can give you. 

3. Induction: If your application is successful, you'll be welcomed into our community as a volunteer-in-training and complete the induction training program. This is a blend of self-paced modules, webinars and local training opportunities, where you'll learn everything you need to know about being an MHPE volunteer, be introduced to the tools and resources available and build some essential skills in health communication and event management. You may also connect with a Volunteer Mentor and any other MHPE volunteers in your area and support any local activities (if practicable).

MHPE Volunteer-In-Training (VIT)

Being a MHPE Volunteer-In-Training (VIT) provides the opportunity to learn more about the MHPE program and the volunteer role while providing a degree of assistance to the program. VITs must be mentored by a volunteer with active status and who has at least two years’ experience in the role.

VITs can perform the following activities while supervised by their volunteer mentor:

• Assist with the planning and set-up of health information sessions, expos, information days and other events, such as Veterans’ Health Week and Men’s Health Week events.
• Attend MHPE training as an observer.
• Attend MHPE network meetings as an observer.
• Distribute copies of DVA information resources and other appropriate health information.

VITs and volunteers are covered under DVA’s Comcover insurance for general liability, professional indemnity, personal effects and personal accident risks.

4. Commencement: As a fully inducted volunteer, you can now begin your journey of making a difference with an annual volunteering work plan, supported by your local team of volunteers, your volunteer representative and the Community Support Adviser in your region.

5. Continuous improvement: As an active volunteer, you’ll take part in an ongoing volunteer training program tailored to further build skills and knowledge and explore the many possible facets of your role. As a new volunteer you will also receive support from a Volunteer Representative and the opportunity to learn from experienced volunteers. Through education, support and community engagement, you'll play a vital role in enhancing the health and well-being of our veterans.

Eligibility

Eligibility criteria: Volunteers should hold

• A genuine drive to improve the health and wellbeing of the veteran community
• Competent computer skills for email, video conferencing and online training.
• The ability to communicate effectively (in person, by email, by telephone).
• The ability to work autonomously in your local community.
• The ability to network with community health services, ex-service organisations, veteran groups and individuals with current or prior affiliations with the ADF.
• The capability to undertake training, both in-person and online.
• Availability to travel for volunteering duties at the request of DVA or for training.
• Demonstrated self-awareness, the ability to set and maintain personal and professional boundaries while volunteering, and practice good self-care.

Other requirements

• You must hold (or be able to obtain) a state or territory registration for those working with vulnerable people, if this is available in your state or territory.
• You may also require a registration for working with children, depending on the nature of your volunteering activities and the requirements of the state or territory you reside in.
• Please visit your state/territory government website to find out more or contact your local CSA for more information.
• Those who do not currently hold these registrations will be supported by DVA to obtain them as part of the induction program.

If you feel that you do not currently suit a Men’s Health Peer Education Volunteer role, but have an interest in volunteering, we encourage you to reach out to your local Community Support Adviser (CSA) to discuss how DVA can support you in developing your capacity to volunteer and/or finding fulfilling volunteer opportunities within your community.

Become a force for veterans’ health

The MHPE program is more than a volunteer opportunity; it's a chance to be part of an exciting veteran community program. You can contribute to a healthier, more informed veteran community, fostering resilience and wellbeing through education and support. Your role as an MHPE volunteer will empower veterans to take charge of their health, guided by your knowledge, empathy, and dedication. 

Become a part of the change and volunteer with MHPE today!

Contact us

Email MensHealth [at] dva.gov.au (MensHealth[at]dva[dot]gov[dot]au) 
Call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) and ask to speak to a Community Support Adviser (CSA).  
To find your local CSA, please see the Community Support Team page.  
To find an MHPE Volunteer Representative, please see the MHPE Program page.