A Friendly Face. A Regular Visit. A Meaningful Connection.
Every week across the Central Coast, older people look forward to the arrival of a familiar face. A simple visit can ease loneliness, spark conversation and create a friendship that lasts for years.
ACVVS is funded by the Australian Government.
Companionship
The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) brings people together through friendship, conversation and regular visits. Whether it's sharing stories, enjoying a cuppa, taking a stroll, or simply spending time together, ACVVS helps older people feel valued, included and connected to their community.
Volunteer
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or someone you care about, or you’d like to brighten an older person’s week as a volunteer visitor, we’d love to hear from you. Contact the ACVVS Coordinator to discuss eligibility, referrals or volunteering.
About
The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is a free Australian Government-funded initiative that helps reduce loneliness and social isolation among older Australians.
Through regular one-on-one visits, volunteer visitors provide friendship, companionship and meaningful social connection to older people living in residential aged care or receiving government-funded aged care support at home.
Maureen’s 25 Years of Connection
“What began as one visit became years of friendship, connection and kindness.”
Maureen first became a volunteer visitor when the program was formerly known as the Community Visitors Scheme. Over time, one visit became a lasting commitment to bringing warmth, conversation and companionship to older people.
25 years volunteering
13 meaningful friendships formed
4 residential aged care homes visited
Countless shared stories, cuppas and moments of kindness
How to get involved
Free for eligible older Australians
Regular visits from a dedicated volunteer
Flexible and tailored to individual interests and preferences
Focused on building genuine friendships and social connections
Ongoing support from an experienced program coordinator
What Can You Do Together
We deliver exceptional results in everything we do, ensuring your satisfaction at every step.
Every friendship is unique.
Visits are guided by shared interests and what both people enjoy.
Activities may include:
- Sharing a chat over a cup of tea
- Talking about life experiences and memories
- Going for a walk
- Playing cards, board games or puzzles
- Reading together
- Listening to music
- Arts and crafts
- Sharing hobbies and interests
- Simply spending time together
The goal isn't to provide a service — it's to build a genuine connection.
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible if you:
- Receive Australian Government-funded residential aged care services; or
- Receive Support at Home services; or
- Have been approved and are waiting to commence Support at Home services; and
- Are experiencing loneliness or social isolation or would benefit from regular companionship and social connection.
Referrals Welcome
Referrals can be made by:
- Family members
- Friends and neighbours
- Carers
- Aged care providers
- Health professionals
- Community organisations
- Self-referrals
If you're unsure whether someone is eligible, please contact us and we'll be happy to discuss their circumstances.
Volunteering in the Acvvs Program
Our volunteers are carefully selected, screened and supported.
All volunteers:
Complete training and orientation
Hold required background checks and clearances
Receive ongoing support and guidance
Are matched based on shared interests and compatibility
What is expected
- Visit regularly
- Listen and chat
- Share interests and activities
- Build a trusted friendship
- Provide companionship and connection
What is not expected
- Provide personal care
- Give medical advice
- Complete domestic assistance
- Manage finances
- Provide transport
- Undertake professional support services
Trust, Safety and Inclusion
The safety and wellbeing of participants and volunteers is our priority.
ACVVS is committed to:
- Respecting individual choice and dignity
- Maintaining privacy and confidentiality
- Creating safe and inclusive environments
- Supporting cultural diversity and individual preferences
- Providing ongoing monitoring and coordinator support