What the role involves
The Buddy Program is an unpaid volunteer opportunity. The time commitment required is
- 10 hours training and induction, and
- 20 hours across Kickstart and during session.
The Program involves:
- providing peer advice and support to new domestic and international students
- accompany students on day trips around Sydney and NSW main tourist attractions
- facilitating social events and activities with students
- providing feedback and recommendations to improve the program
Responsibilities
Buddies are expected to fulfil the following responsibilities:
- adhere to the Macquarie University Student and Staff Code of Conduct
- engage and participate in the compulsory events
- provide support and guidance to new students through the program
- commit to a minimum of 20 hours during session
Reporting relationship
Buddies will be supported by a group of Buddy Team Leaders, who in turn report to Student Engagement, Inclusion and Belonging staff.
Selection criteria
- effective oral communication skills
- proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
- established non-judgemental, respectful and empathetic behaviour
- demonstrated ability to maintain appropriate and professional boundaries
- demonstrated problem solving skills
- ability to engage diverse students through initiating and maintaining conversation
- ability to build a good rapport with students and staff and answer questions patiently
Eligibility criteria:
- be over 18 years of age
- be able to attend campus as most of our events are in person
- have completed at least one full session of study at Macquarie University
- be enrolled as a student at Macquarie University in Session 1, 2026
- maintain satisfactory academic standing throughout your time in the program
- not have been found to have breached the Student Code of Conduct or Academic Integrity Policy
Benefits of joining the Buddy program
A valuable opportunity to volunteer at Macquarie, where you will:
- meet new students, current Buddies, team leaders and expand your network
- receive additional training and build your communication, leadership skills and cross-culture competency
- receive a certificate of completion
- be invited to our Volunteer Recognition event
Applying
- ensure you are familiar with the position description before applying
- applications have been extended by popular demand and will close 10 May 2026 at 11.45pm (AEDT)