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.

Register your interest

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.

Meet Olivia

Lifeline WA Crisis Supporter

Meet John

Lifeline WA Crisis Supporter

Meet Brett

Lifeline WA Crisis Supporter

I love the feeling that you have made a difference in someone's day and have really listened and heard them, it is not often we get that privilege and the time and space to do that for someone.

Anonymous

Digital Crisis Supporter

I’m studying psychology, and volunteering as a Digital Crisis Supporter has given me invaluable life skills. Every shift, I’m reminded that behind the statistics are real people who just need someone to listen. I was nervous at first, but the training gave me the tools, and the team support means I’m never alone. I’ve grown in confidence and empathy, and I know these skills will stay with me long after uni. Most importantly, I know I’ve made a difference for people who might otherwise feel unseen.

Anonymous

Digital Crisis Supporter

I wanted to volunteer because my teenage kids are growing up in a world where online connection is everything. Knowing that young people often reach out digitally for support, I felt compelled to step up. Being a Digital Crisis Supporter lets me meet people where they are, on text or chat, in moments that really matter. It’s not always easy, but I finish each shift knowing I’ve given someone time, space, and care when they needed it most. I like that my kids can see me modelling empathy and giving back to our community."

Anonymous

Digital Crisis Supporter

I’ve been through my own tough times, and I know how powerful it is to feel heard. That’s why I chose to volunteer. As a Digital Crisis Supporter, I can be that listening ear for someone else who’s struggling. It’s not about having all the answers, it’s about creating a safe space where people feel less alone. Some shifts are hard, but I’m supported every step of the way by the Lifeline WA community. For me, this role is about turning my lived experience into hope for others, and that feels like a real gift.

Anonymous

Digital Crisis Supporter

What the journey looks like

From expression of interest to Digital Crisis Supporter

Icon

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.

Icon

 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.

Icon

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.

Icon

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.

Icon

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.

Icon

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.

Register your interest now

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.

Exit
Available 24/7
Call 13 11 14
Text 0477 13 11 14
Chat online Call Triple Zero 000
in an emergency
Collapse
24/7 Crisis Support