1. Students
  2. Support
  3. Study support
  4. Buddy Program
  5. Apply to be a Buddy

Role description

The Buddy Program is a voluntary role designed to help students transition smoothly into university life.

Buddies are expected to be actively involved in the program for the full session, taking part in in-person events and completing a minimum of 20 hours of activity per session. Attendance at compulsory events, including training days, is required.

Responsibilities

Buddies are expected to fulfil the following responsibilities:

  • Represent the Macquarie University Buddy Program at official Macquarie University events
  • Support and actively promote events designed to connect students and build the student community
  • Contribute to Kickstart including through coordinating tours and promoting the Buddy Program
  • Engage with in-session events held as part of the Buddy Program including both on-campus and off-campus events

Reporting relationship

Buddies will be supported by a group of Buddy Team Leaders, who in turn report to the Buddy Program Coordinator.

Eligibility criteria

  • Have completed at least 1 unit of study and one Session prior to Session 1 2027
  • Will enrol in at least one unit for Session 1 2027 at Macquarie University and maintain satisfactory academic standing
  • You will be required to attend a mandatory full day training session on either Monday 8 February or Wednesday 10 February
  • You must volunteer at least 20 hours during Session 1 2027 including at Kickstart and facilitation of Buddy events throughout the session
  • You must abide by the Student Code of Conduct

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

Benefits

A valuable opportunity to volunteer at Macquarie, where you will:

  • Develop transferrable skills such as organisation, team collaboration, communication skills and cross-cultural awareness
  • Receive a Certificate of Service to recognise your contribution to the Macquarie community
  • Receive a Macquarie University Microcredential
  • Receive official  co-curricular recognition on AHEGS

Applying

  • Ensure you are familiar with the position description before applying
  • Applications close Sunday 18 October 2026 at 11.45pm (AEDT)

Apply now