Volunteer in Melbourne: 9 Ways to Give Back This Christmas

The lead-up to Christmas can rush past in a blur of deadlines, gift lists and social plans, leaving little room to acknowledge those doing it tough this season. Yet this is exactly when a small act of generosity can mean everything. Thoughtfulness is wonderful, but turning that care into action is where the real magic begins.

From volunteering and donating to supporting meaningful creative projects, here are heartfelt ways to give back and share the spirit this Christmas.

The Smith Family’s Giving Tree

The Smith Family’s Christmas tradition is in full swing, with more than 2,000 volunteers helping deliver toy and book packs to over 25,000 children who need a little extra brightness this season. Each pack sets kids up for a stronger start to the school year, turning generosity into real change. If you’ve ever wanted to feel a touch like Santa, you can set up your own Giving Tree — at work, at school or at home — and join the magic.

Register here

Buy gift vouchers for children and families

Melbourne City Mission is gratefully accepting gift vouchers for children and families in need over the festive season. For this, you can either buy a voucher from any JB Hi-Fi, or Coles Group & Myer (including Kmart, Target and Officeworks) stores, or, you can donate money through their website and Melbourne City Mission will buy a voucher on your behalf. Both options will lead to a gift being purchased that’s perfectly suited to those who need it most. 

Drop off a gift at Target

Target and UnitingCare have been in partnership since 1992, helping raise money and collect gifts for those less fortunate. There are two ways to get involved; the first is by simply purchasing a gift and dropping it off at any Target store in Melbourne, and the second, is by making a donation online here. If possible, try and donate your gift early so that UnitingCare representatives can ensure they are distributed in time for Christmas.

Supply Christmas baskets

Melbourne Basket Brigade’s mission this Christmas is simple — to deliver over 750 hampers to disadvantaged families. But just like Santa, they need a little help, be that sorting, wrapping, packing, and delivering baskets anonymously to those who have fallen on hard times in the city of Melbourne. Everyone is welcome to come along and help on the 16th and 17th of December at Caulfield Grammar in St Kilda East.

You can either register your interest online here or register on the day

Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal

A December ritual for so many Melbourne families, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal brings generosity back to the forefront of the season. Partnering with The Salvation Army, the initiative invites you to gift an unwrapped present or make a small donation — simple gestures that land exactly where they’re needed. From children doing it tough to older Australians spending Christmas alone, every contribution delivers dignity, joy and a sense of being seen.

RizeUp Australia’s Christmas Gift Appeal

RizeUp’s Christmas Gift Appeal brings comfort and care to women and children rebuilding their lives after escaping family violence. The charity works with specialist services to deliver thoughtfully chosen presents — toys, books, school essentials and small luxuries that remind families they’re not forgotten. By donating a gift or contributing to the appeal, you’re helping restore a sense of normalcy during an overwhelming chapter.

It’s a quiet act of kindness that makes Christmas feel safe again.

Buy a Christmas treat so others can eat

This Christmas, St Mary’s House of Welcome has teamed up with Brunetti to create the most charming gingerbread houses in town — handmade, beautifully wrapped and filled with nostalgia. Choose a DIY kit complete with lollies and icing, or a deluxe pre-built version ready for gifting. Every purchase supports St Mary’s “Welcome Relief” meals program, helping provide food and care to people experiencing homelessness. A festive treat that tastes even better knowing it makes a real difference.

Buy a beautiful culinary-focused poster (that also helps others)

Spread some Christmas cheer to those in need — and earn your stripes with friends and family — by gifting one of Food For Everyone’s beautifully designed culinary food posters this year. Every purchase directly supports people experiencing food insecurity, with 10 meals donated through their charity partner, SecondBite, for each poster sold.

To date, FFE has raised over $151,566.13, equating to roughly 750,000 meals for Australians in need. Born from a love of sharing food with family and friends, these posters make the perfect Christmas gift. Not only are they stunning, but they also spread the joy of food to those who need it most.

Light up your homes for sick kids this Christmas

Starlight Children’s Foundation is inviting Australians to brighten the season for seriously ill kids by lighting up their neighbourhoods this Christmas. Whether it’s your home, office or a single sparkling tree, you can turn your display into a fundraiser that brings joy where it’s needed most. Join Starlight’s Christmas Lights team, collect donations online, and if you raise $250 or more, you’ll receive a festive Starlight Beach House Candle as a thank-you for spreading the magic.

Register here

If you’re keen to find more ways to volunteer in Melbourne, check out these other ways to give back around the city, plus the Australian female focused charities that deserve your support.