Lifeline North Coast is looking for more locals to train as crisis support volunteers following a community information session held on 22 March 2026 in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. The organisation has been operating in the region for over 35 years and needs more volunteers to help answer a growing number of calls from people in distress.
According to Lifeline Australia, crisis supporters respond to one call every 30 seconds across the country, with the local branch answering more than 14,000 calls each year. This high demand means more people are needed to provide one-on-one support for those experiencing difficult times or thoughts of suicide.
Residents who want to help must be over 18 years old and undergo a 12-month training program to earn the nationally accredited CHCSS00113 Crisis Support Skill Set qualification. The training costs $475, or $500 if paid in instalments, and volunteers must commit to four hours of service per week for at least two years. Applicants are also required to complete a national police check and a working with children check.
The local crisis line is funded entirely by sales from five retail shops located across Grafton, Toormina, Nambucca Heads, and Coffs Harbour—which hosts two storefronts on West High Street and Vernon Street. This community support allows the organisation to continue offering its services to anyone in need at any hour of the day.
People interested in finding out more about the roles can visit the Lifeline North Coast office at 2/115 West High Street in Coffs Harbour. The organisation can also be reached by phone on 02 6651 4093 to discuss the application process and training requirements.
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