Why be a volunteer for WYD08?

This year it is Sydney's turn to welcome the world and host the largest youth event on the planet - World Youth Day.

By becoming a volunteer you will help thousands of pilgrims enjoy the activities of WYD08 as well as help Sydney celebrate the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI.

Many young Catholics will gather from Australia and around the world to take part in the week of activities. This is your opportunity to assist in welcoming the world and ensuring a wonderful experience for everyone.

How old do I have to be to be able to volunteer for WYD08?

Volunteers will need to be aged 18 years or over at the time they intend to commence their volunteer position.

What do I get for volunteering?

By becoming a volunteer you will have the chance to be involved in an exciting international event in Sydney.

You will also receive

• a unique event uniform specifically designed for WYD08 volunteers
• transport to and from work
• meals
• specialised training, and
• the opportunity to meet and work with many other enthusiastic people from around the world.

If I am a volunteer, will I need a special visa?

Unless you are an Australian citizen or you have permanent resident status you will need a visa.

We are currently working with the Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs to streamline the visa process for WYD08 so more information about visas will be available in coming months.

Will I need to register and pay the registration fee to attend WYD08, even if I am a volunteer?

You will need to register as a volunteer so that we can make sure you have accommodation (if required), meals and transport during the period of Monday 14 July - Sunday 20 July inclusive, but you will not need to pay the registration fee. Of course, your volunteer role is not guaranteed until you have officially been accepted as a volunteer by WYD08.

Do I need to pay my own travel costs if I am coming to WYD08 as a volunteer?

Yes, you will need to pay for your own travel to Sydney. Special fare information for international visitors will be available on the website in coming months so check the site for more details.

Do I need to arrange my own accommodation in Sydney for the time that I am a volunteer?

If you are a volunteer for the period of 15-20 July only, then your accommodation (if required) will be arranged as part of your registration package. Your accommodation will be provided from Monday 14 July to Sunday 20 July inclusive. If you are volunteering for a longer period, WYD08 will provide you with accommodation and meals.

When will WYD08 be notifying volunteers?

We will need some "long term" volunteers to start with us from early in 2007. Click here for current opportunities . Short term volunteers will need to start in the leadup to the WYD08 events. More information about short term volunteers will be available on this website in late 2007.

If I am a volunteer, can I take friends or family with me?

Yes, but your friends or family will need to arrange their own travel, accommodation and food costs for the period of their stay, unless they register as Pilgrims. WYD08 will only provide accommodation and meals.