Community Projects Assistant
Vinnies

SWL placement opportunity with St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies), providing students with hands-on experience in a community-focused retail environment. Students may assist with customer service, stock sorting, pricing and displays, donation processing, and general store presentation while developing workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, reliability, and initiative. This placement is well suited to students interested in retail, customer service, community services, or not-for-profit organisations. No previous experience is required; a positive attitude and willingness to learn are essential.

Skills You Might Learn

Communication and interpersonal skills
Customer service skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Time management and organisation
Reliability and workplace professionalism
Confidence in a workplace environment
Understanding of retail operations
Awareness of community services and social responsibility

Typical Tasks & Duties

Assisting customers and providing basic customer service
Sorting, pricing, and displaying donated goods
Organising stock and maintaining store presentation
Assisting with donation intake and processing
Using teamwork skills to support staff and volunteers
Following workplace health and safety procedures
Maintaining a clean and organised work area
Learning about the operations of a not-for-profit organisation

Student Requirements

Students are expected to demonstrate a positive attitude, genuine interest in the industry, and willingness to learn. They should be reliable, punctual, and present themselves in a professional manner appropriate to the workplace. They must be able to follow instructions, ask questions when unsure, and respond constructively to feedback. A commitment to workplace health and safety, respect for supervisors and colleagues, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are essential.

Dress Requirements

Students are expected to wear neat, clean, and appropriate clothing. School uniforms are acceptable. Clothing should be modest and professional, avoiding casual items such as ripped jeans, hoodies, or hats. Closed-toe shoes are required for safety, and overall appearance should reflect respect for the workplace and its professional environment.

Special Transport Requirements

This placement is in Horsham. Students are to make their own travel arrangements to attend the placement. Public transport information is available from PTV at https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/