Role description
The Buddy Program is a voluntary role designed to help students transition smoothly into university life.
Buddy Team Leaders are expected to be actively involved in the program for the full session and to coordinate in-person events, including training sessions, day trips, and on-campus events. Each Buddy Team Leader is required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of program-related activity per session, excluding training hours.
Responsibilities
Buddy Team Leaders are expected to fulfil the following responsibilities:
- Represent the Macquarie University Buddy Program at official Macquarie University events
- Contribute to the development of events to engage the student cohort as part of the Buddy Program
- Assist the Buddy Program Coordinator with developing and facilitating the in-person Buddy training sessions
- Contribute to Kickstart including through coordinating tours and promoting the Buddy Program
Reporting relationship
Buddy Team Leaders will report to the Buddy Program Coordinator who provides support, guidance, and training.
Eligibility criteria
- Will have completed the Buddy Program as a Buddy before 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 Thursday 4 February and another training session on either Monday 8 February or Wednesday 10 February
- You must volunteer at least 40 hours during Session 1 2027 including at Kickstart and facilitation of Buddy events throughout the session
- You must complete the mandatory online modules Recognising and Responding to Disclosures of Sexual Misconduct and Intercultural Communication & Culture Shock
- 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 and ability to calmly navigate logistical challenges
- Demonstrated knowledge of international student experiences and cross-cultural knowledge
- Ability to engage students through initiating and maintaining conversation
- Ability to build a good rapport with students and staff and foster an environment where people feel safe and included
- Demonstrated leadership skills
- Demonstrated ability to provide clear directions and instructions to people in a professional way
Benefits
A valuable opportunity to volunteer at Macquarie, where you will:
- Develop transferrable skills such as leadership, planning, cultural sensitivity and communication skills
- 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)