FAQs - Internships

What is the definition of an intern?
How do I apply for an intern position?
What is the recruitment process?
What is the timeline of the internship program?
What qualifications do I need to have?
How many hours a week will I be required to work, and will I still be able to undertake full time study?
What training will I be given?
Will I have networking opportunities?
Will there be a possible job opportunity available for me after the completion of the program?
Do you send interns to your international projects?
I don’t think I am able to commit to an internship, how else can I support World Vision?
General FAQs

What is the definition of an intern?

An Intern is a tertiary student (university or TAFE), who is currently enrolled in studies or has been enrolled within the last year. Interns are usually, but not always, completing a student placement at World Vision as part of their course requirements. Students will need to have completed two years of their tertiary studies to be eligible for the internship program. Generally no payment is made to interns. Interns are considered volunteers and as such the World Vision volunteer definition and policies also apply to them.

How do I apply for an intern position?

Current internship opportunities are listed on our World Vision website.

The first step in the application process is to express your interest for the internship program by completing the online application form and identifying which intern position you would like to apply for. Within a few hours, you will receive an email from us letting you know we have received your application and next steps.

Once you receive an email you may be asked to send through a cover letter and resume to: internships@worldvision.com.au

Your application will then follow a selection process that may include an interview or assessment centre, reference checks and a national police check.

What is the recruitment process?

Typically, this is what happens once we receive your initial application.

• Finalise application – The appropriate candidates will be asked to submit a resume and cover letter, outlining their skills, passions and abilities
• Application shortlist – All applications are reviewed and a shortlist of the most suitable candidates is developed
• Telephone screen – Short-listed candidates may be contacted by phone to discuss the role in more detail and further information is gathered to determine suitability
• Interview – Candidates that have demonstrated suitable knowledge, skills, experience and motivational fit through their application and telephone screen are invited to attend an interview or assessment centre. The interview is usually with a Human Resources representative and the Internship Supervisor
• Feedback – interview feedback is provided
• Reference checking – Referees nominated by the candidate are contacted and asked questions related to the candidates academic and work performance
• Offer – The successful candidate is offered the position and the terms of internship will be communicated.
• Acceptance – Candidate provides verbal and written acceptance of the offer and a start date is determined

World Vision Australia offer interns, like staff, a detailed induction program designed to provide all the tools and knowledge for a smooth transition into the organisation.

What is the timeline of the internship program?

Applications for Semester 2 roles are currently being accepted, please see the opportunities directory for individual application closing dates. The current intake will commence from Monday, 4 August. Please note that dates are an indication only and subject to change.

What qualifications do I need to have?

The qualifications and skills needed for each role will be specified in the position description and will depend on the project and department. No prior work experience is generally necessary however.

Depending on the role, interns may be placed within any of our four business areas:

Engagement – implements targeted marketing and public awareness campaigns to engage the Australian public in efforts to eliminate poverty and its causes

Policy and Programs - designs and administers emergency relief and community development projects overseas and here in Australia. Also includes government relations and advocacy activities

Operations – provides support services including finance, information technology, legal and risk, project management, and an 80-seat call centre

People, Culture & Learning – responsible for international and domestic recruitment, learning and development, employee relations, staff wellbeing, volunteering and remuneration

How many hours a week will I be required to work, and will I still be able to undertake full time study?

The internship program is designed to allow you to be able to continue with your tertiary studies while undertaking the program. Therefore the number of hours a week will depend on each student’s course requirements. We understand at World Vision the demands of tertiary education, therefore we try to be flexible and find a commitment that suits both students and the department they will be working within. The internship program varies from 10 to 60 days.

What training will I be given?

World Vision will provide you with all necessary training for your internship role. You will be provided with an organisational induction, as well as being made aware of opportunities for training and information sessions held within World Vision.

Will I have networking opportunities?

Undertaking the World Vision internship program will enable you to meet people and make valuable contacts within a vast network of like-minded people, who are experienced, as well as passionate and motivated to bring about change in the world.

Will there be a possible job opportunity available for me after the completion of the program?

We can make no guarantee that a possible job opportunity will be available for interns once they have completed the program. However after having undertaken the program, you will have new skills and be familiar with the organisation, and therefore will be in a good position to apply for future roles at World Vision. Interns must go through the same employment application process as other applicants.

Do you send interns to your international projects?

No, we do not currently have international intern opportunities.

I don’t think I am able to commit to an internship, how else can I support World Vision?

There are many other ways you can contribute to World Vision Australia, for ideas please visit the "get involved" section of our homepage.