Position Purpose

The Dietitian Volunteer works as part of a supportive volunteer team to empower members, people seeking asylum in Australia, to make healthy, sustainable food choices for themselves and their families. The role involves delivering one‑on‑one nutrition consultations that are sensitive to each member’s unique needs, with a focus on education, practical guidance and collaborative goal‑setting. Dietitian Volunteers also contribute to group‑based nutrition programs and health promotion activities. When not consulting, they may support the Foodbank by assisting members to choose their weekly groceries with dignity and compassion, and by offering additional nutrition advice where appropriate.

About the Program: Health Program

The Health Program provides comprehensive primary care and specialist services, including psychiatry, pain management, immunisation, and diabetes support, to people seeking asylum. Many clients present with complex health needs that require coordinated care across multiple disciplines. Most individuals accessing the service have no income and hold visas that restrict work rights and Medicare access, making the ASRC a critical source of healthcare and support.

Organisational context

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia's largest independent organization providing aid, employment, health services and advocacy for people seeking asylum. Powered by over 500 volunteers and 200 staff, we create welcoming and inclusive environments. Our organisational values are Welcoming, Authentic, Courageous and Collaborative.

Key Responsibilities

• Speaking to patients to learn about their health goals including dietary needs, preferences, and restrictions.
• Developing nutrition plans for clients.
• Compiling information and tracking client progress towards their health goals.
• Entering patient information into our patient database.Staying informed about the latest discoveries in nutrition.
• Speaking to groups to promote healthy eating habits and proper nutrition.

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

• Tertiary qualifications in Nutrition and Dietetics recognised by the Dietitians Association of Australia.
• Experience providing nutrition services in a community health setting.
• Strong communication skills, including active listening, public speaking and problem‑solving.
• Sound written and computer skills, with the ability to produce clear, timely reports.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to respond sensitively and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Ability to build rapport and work collaboratively with other health professionals, including Refugee Health Nurses and GPs.
• Compassion, a genuine interest in supporting healthier eating habits and alignment with ASRC values (Collaboration, Welcome, Courage, Authenticity).
• Reliability, teamwork and a willingness to commit to agreed volunteer hours.

Desirable:

• Lived experience of seeking asylum
• Knowledge of the policy context of practice with asylum seekers visa categories/conditions, and the barriers faced by people seeking asylum in Australia

A position description is attached.