Be there for someone when it matters most
At Lifeline WA, our Crisis Supporters are at the heart of everything we do and without them, our services wouldn’t be possible
Every day, our Digital Crisis Supporters offer hope, compassion and support through online chat and text – connecting with people in distress one message at a time. Supporting someone in crisis through a digital conversation is a powerful skill, and we deeply value the volunteers who make this support possible. Their commitment brings us closer to a community free from suicide.
If you’re looking to give back and make a meaningful difference from the comfort of your own home, becoming a Digital Crisis Supporter may be the perfect fit. As you support others, you’ll also experience personal and professional growth – strengthening your ability to respond in moments of crisis, contributing to your community and building connections that can quite literally save lives. It’s not always easy, but it is profoundly rewarding, and Lifeline WA will support you every step of the way.
Volunteer With Lifeline WA
Your time can save lives
Volunteers are at the heart of Lifeline WA: helping us to deliver vital services and to work towards our mission of a community free from suicide. Whether you’d like to become a Crisis Supporter or help out at events, we’d love to hear from you.
What the journey looks like
From expression of interest to Digital Crisis Supporter
Submit an expression of interest
Submit our online form to let us know you’re interested in volunteering. From here, we’ll be in touch with next steps and instructions on how to enrol for an information event.
Attend an information event
If you’re based in Perth, we’d love you to attend an in-person information event with our team to learn more about the role, the training process and what to expect. If Subiaco is too far to travel, we’ll encourage you to sign up for one of our virtual information events.
Complete an online interview
To help us get to know you better, we’ll ask a few additional questions as part of the online interview. You can record your video responses at a time that suits you, and the process should take around 20 minutes.
Complete your training
The first stage of training involves the completion of 30-35 hours of (online) eLearning. Our eLearning is self-guided, but the support team is there for you along the way. Communication with them and making sure you can make steady, consistent progress will be the key to success during this stage of the training. Once you complete the eLearning, you will be able to move onto Placement & Internship.
Undertake placement & internship
To build confidence in providing crisis support, you’ll complete 12–16 hours of student placement over a maximum four-week period. This placement is your first opportunity to put your training into practice while being supported by an experienced Crisis Supporter mentor. Your mentor will guide you through your first interactions, help you apply your learnings, support you in crafting messages, and provide any additional coaching you may need.
Become a trained Digital Crisis Supporter
As a trained Crisis Supporter, you’ll provide vital crisis support, participate in professional development, and receive regular feedback to help you grow in the role. We ask for a minimum commitment of four hours per week.
Upcoming training
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer Digital Crisis Supporter or want to learn more about upcoming training, register your interest below to receive details about our upcoming information events.
Why volunteer with us?
There are many reasons why people choose to become a Crisis Supporter. Each with their own unique story and motivations. Hear from some of our volunteers as they share their Lifeline journey.
Frequently asked questions
What does the role involve?
As a Digital Crisis Supporter, you’ll provide immediate support to people in distress through online chat and text. You’ll be there for individuals experiencing crisis, offering compassion, guidance, and a safe, non-judgmental space to be heard.
What training will I receive?
You’ll complete 40–50 hours of online training over a 12-week period. The training is comprehensive and prepares you with the skills to confidently support someone in crisis.
Is the training accredited?
The online training is free for all volunteers, and no student contribution is required. While it is not a nationally accredited or certified course like the Telephone Crisis Supporter skill, it has been specifically designed for Lifeline Digital Crisis Supporters and equips you with valuable, lifelong skills tailored to providing support online.
What are the requirements to volunteer?
To become a Digital Crisis Supporter, you must:
- Be over the age of 18
- Complete a National Police Check
- Complete a WA Working with Children Check
Where will I be volunteering from?
This role is fully remote. You’ll be able to complete your shifts from home, provided you have a quiet, private space and a reliable internet connection.
What time commitment is expected?
We ask that all Digital Crisis Supporters commit to a minimum of 4 hours per fortnight. Many volunteers choose to give more, but this is the baseline requirement to help us ensure consistent support for help seekers.
How you can help
Volunteer
Your time can help us save lives. Explore volunteering opportunities with Lifeline WA.
Fundraise
Create your own fundraising page or download our fundraising kit.
Partnerships
We rely on the generosity of our philanthropic and corporate partners to sustain our life-saving work.
Donate today
Support our 24/7 crisis services to allow us to be there for West Australians in need.