Volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities

At IDFA, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. From our Board of Directors to those hosting member-led events, your efforts help us make a meaningful impact in communities across Australia. The success of our programs is built on the dedication and collaboration of both staff and volunteers.

Volunteering with IDFA helps support us to achieve our goals towards educating, advocating and spreading awareness of immunodeficiencies within the public and medical communities.

Whether you’re a patient, carer, friend or family it can be an empowering opportunity to volunteer in the field of rare disease. 

Three Ways to Contribute

At IDFA, we believe that everyone can make a difference—no matter how big or small. That’s why we’ve created three simple and meaningful ways for you to contribute and support people living with immunodeficiencies.

Share your Story

We’d love to hear your story and share it with others — whether it’s to help raise awareness in our advocacy campaigns, chat with media, or be part of a community webinar.

Distribute IDFA Resources

Getting IDFA resources into healthcare settings is important for awareness-raising for immunodeficiencies. 

Host or Join a Member-led Event

Be a part of an online community catchup, or an in-person Coffee Club! You can also help with IDFA-led events.  

Volunteer With Us

In addition to the three main ways to contribute, there are many exciting and rewarding opportunities to get involved with IDFA as a volunteer. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, event planning, community support, or simply want to make a difference, there’s a place for you in our team.

    Contribute Professional Experience

    Join our board or one of our panels; share your experience via our webinars.

    Projects and Student Placement

    If you are a student or have certain skills, we are offering a range of project opportunities.

    Collaborate with us on Campaigns

    Increase awareness, provide advocacy, and educate others on immunodeficiencies.

    Become a Circle of Support Peer Mentor

    Become a mentor supporting other IDFA members on their journey. 

    Meet Our Volunteers

    Circle of Support Peer Mentor

     

    “I know how difficult and lonely the journey is after being diagnosed with an immunodeficiency. By volunteering as a CoS peer mentor, I can support other members on their journey and remove that sense of loneliness. It is immensely satisfying knowing that I’ve helped support a member through a difficult time.” – Kylie

    IDFA Board Member

     

    “I don’t want my struggle to make me a victim. I want my battle to make me someone else’s hero.” This quote resonated with me as it sums up the essence of why I volunteer for IDFA. I spent the first decade after my diagnosis pretty much alone with no information and no idea what to do when I got sick. When I found IDFA, I found understanding and a community. The road to diagnosis is long and to know you are not alone is immensely comforting.” – Pearl

    SCID Advocate

     

    “It is important to support those who are making a difference in people’s lives. Our researchers need support in lots of different ways. Most people can’t make large financial donations, but we can help in other ways such as through patient stories and advocacy. Contacting members of Parliament, local members, and local media can highlight immunodeficiencies and the work of IDFA. Attending local community events and talking to people about these conditions all help. From giving your time you receive more back.” – Jenny

    IDFA Board Member and Medical Advisory Panel

     

    “There is great value in being a health care professional member of a patient support organisation. Not only is there the potential to directly contribute to improved health outcomes for our patients and their families, but the better understanding of the impact of disease and their treatments from a patient and family perspective enhances our clinical interactions and practice to the benefit of our patients and community.” – Melanie