Volunteering

Australian Innovation (also known as AusInnovation) encourages volunteers to get involved in our activities. We rely on volunteers to sustain our work for the annual Australian Innovation Festival as a not-for-profit initiative with industry associations, governments, education institutions and corporate organisations. We can also accommodate student internships and work experience placements. 
 
As a relatively small organisation, our volunteer program is not overly formal, although every volunteer has a position description and supervisor. All volunteer positions attract reimbursement of luncheon and travel to a maximum of $10 per day volunteered, and any other work-related expenses.  
 
These are the volunteers we still need in 2013:

• Editorial Assistants (Melbourne/national): Work with the Director and Editor of our publications and directories to attract contributions to 2012 themed editions – Australian Innovation, The New Economy, Solutions for Success and International Leaders.
  
  Good oral and written communication skills a must. Knowledge of the innovation /or research & development sector an advantage. This position would suit a university student or recent graduate in communications, journalism, science(s), politics or a related field. The position(s) could work remotely. 

• Policy Assistant(s) (Melbourne /national): Work with the Director and associate innovation festival directors on these areas:

• Entrepreneurship
• Research & Development
• Technology Commercialisation
• Information Technology
• Biotechnology
• Creative Arts and Design
• Education
• Manufacturing
• Business Services
• Enterprise Development
• Health and Medical Research
• Thought Leadership
• Innovation

• These (up to four) positions would suit a university student or recent graduate in a related innovation/science field, communications, politics, economics or a related field. The position(s) could work remotely. 
• Program Assistant (Melbourne): Work with the National Festival Events Manager to promote the inaugural BiG (Business, Innovation and Growth) Awards. These awards are a joint venture between AusInnovation and the Australian Institute of Policy and Science.
  
  This position would initially work remotely (potentially home-based).  A recent graduate might be suitable. A passion for business and innovation related communication and engagement would be an advantage. Good IT and admin skills would also be considered highly. 

AusInnovation is open to considering other volunteer arrangements based on individuals' interests, study requirements, skills and availability by contacting us in addition to the roles described above.

Please contact Peter Westfield to explore future volunteering positions with AusInnovation on 03 9827 2166 / 0418 251 017 or email Peter.