Lattitude is one of the largest international volunteering organisations in Australia, supporting over 500 young people each year. As a youth development charity, our aim is to enable young people from a range of backgrounds and all parts of Australia to gain from this experience. We offer various funding opportunities and advice on fundraising so that cost is not a barrier, and as a not for profit organisation we ensure we remain cost effective and are transparent about all costs involved. We offer a range of placement options and provide comprehensive support throughout the process.
An experience as unique as you are
With placements available in 12 different countries, lasting between 3 and 11 months and departing at various times of the year, there is a Lattitude experience just right for you!
Personalised service
Every Lattitude applicant is interviewed by an experienced panel of returned volunteers and Lattitude Supporters. During this process applicants are given a chance to share their ambitions, personality, unique attributes and motivations in applying for Lattitude so that they can be matched to a placement that suits their particular strengths.
Safety
With the safety net of a structured travel experience through a reputable organisation like Lattitude, there is no limit to where you can go and what you can do! Every placement is vetted by Lattitude before volunteers are sent. Lattitude has strong links with Australian Embassies and High Commissions around the world, and we are well aware of the various political, social and economic situations in each of our host countries. Our network of in-country Lattitude Representatives and 24-hour emergency phone line means that assistance is always available wherever you are.
Support before you leave
No matter how big or small your query, Lattitude staff are always on hand to help. You will be assigned a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator based in our Melbourne office who will guide you through organising all aspects of your experience and any training you may need. You will be invited to attend a pre-departure briefing where you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow volunteers, hear safety and travel tips and much more. Depending on the placement and country, you may have additional briefings, either face-to-face or online. There is also a dedicated Lattitude Team at STA Travel who can assist with all your travel arrangements. This can include organising a group flight to your placement, helping with further travel plans you may have, assisting family members planning to visit you and arranging travel insurance.
Support upon arrival
In most cases you will be met upon arrival by the Lattitude Representative and taken to an in-country orientation. At the orientation you will learn about your new environment and assisted in settling in. Depending on the country you might also have a language or teaching course as part of your orientation.
Support at your placement
At your placement you will be appointed a dedicated Mentor who will provide guidance and assistance with your duties as a Lattitude volunteer. To ensure you have settled in well your in-country Lattitude Representative will be in touch with you at your placement shortly after arrival, and will be your first point of contact throughout your placement for any matters that may arise. Your dedicated Volunteer Coordinator in the Melbourne office will also be on hand at any stage to answer questions you or your family may have. Just in case anything does happen, our 24-hour emergency phone line which is staffed by our experienced team in Australia, is available if needed by you or your family.
Support coming home
We recognise that coming home can be difficult and provide one-to-one support, with onward referrals for further professional support if needed. Volunteers are invited to debriefing events and become part of our network of alumni. We undertake reviews against the learning needs identified before going overseas which may form part of a reference provided at the end. You will recieve a certificate and if needed, a letter to use towards an application for Youth Allowance.
Placements that assist others
Lattitude volunteers become a real part of their host community, and are given the privilege of experiencing a new culture from within while doing valuable work that enriches the lives of others.
Access to the worldwide Lattitude network
The Lattitude network encompasses decades of returned volunteers, hundreds of Lattitude Supporters and over 1500 fellow Lattitude volunteers internationally every year – an instant directory of friends and mentors to call upon along your journey.
Value for money
As a non-profit organisation, we aim to keep the costs involved as low as possible without compromising on the quality and safety of your experience. Once you have paid the upfront costs before departure, there is no need for large amounts of spending money overseas. All Lattitude placements include accommodation and food and, in some cases, a small amount of weekly pocket money. There is a Lattitude experience to accommodate any budget.