Employees of ABCN member companies can volunteer via their workplace.
Mentoring is a practical way to support students, while building leadership and coaching skills. Volunteering does not require any preparation or training but is an amazing way to give back and contribute meaningfully.
Just a few hours of your time gives students valuable insight into the world of work and greater confidence about what comes next.
Talent is everywhere but opportunity isn’t
Not all young Australians have access to people who work in different industries or professional roles. ABCN helps students build a clearer understanding of what’s possible and how they might get there.
For students facing greater barriers to opportunity, these programs offer a valuable chance to connect with professionals and gain real-world perspective.
Mentoring builds coaching skills
ABCN mentoring gives employees a structured skilled volunteering experience that builds coaching capability and creates opportunities for personal growth through meaningful engagement with students.
Our member companies and partners are leading Australian businesses
ABCN provides a structured way for businesses to support communities while giving employees meaningful skilled volunteering opportunities. Businesses contribute their people, workplaces and expertise to a national network that delivers real outcomes.
Check out our FAQs
Who can become an ABCN mentor?
ABCN mentors are exclusively employees of ABCN member companies. If your organisation is a member, your internal program contact can let you know which mentoring opportunities are available.
What does an ABCN mentor do?
An ABCN mentor shares their work and life experience with students through a structured program led by an experienced ABCN facilitator. You might talk about your career path, answer questions, join small-group activities or help students practise a workplace skill.
Do I need mentoring experience?
No. ABCN provides a briefing before the program so you understand the students, the session format and your role.
Do I need to prepare?
No preparation is required but be ready to share your experiences, successes and failures as authentically as you can. You will be briefed before your session by one of our facilitators and the facilitator will guide you through the session. The week before each session, your program champion will send you a snapshot of what will be covered so you will be aware of what’s coming up.
How do I know what to do?
An ABCN facilitator will be your guide for the whole program and will explain every step of each session.
Do I need to be in a senior role?
No. Students benefit from meeting people at different stages of their careers. What matters most is that you are open, respectful and willing to share your experience in a way students can understand.
How much time does it take?
The time commitment depends on the program. Some programs run for a single session, while others run over several sessions.
Do I need a Working with Children Check?
Yes, a Working with Children Check or equivalent clearance is required. We have more info about that here.
What should I talk about with students?
You’ll be guided by the ABCN facilitator but expect to talk about your career path, what your work is like and what helped you along the way. Students often value honest stories about different pathways, early jobs, study choices and moments when plans changed.
Can I stay in touch with a student after the program?
No. Mentors cannot contact students outside scheduled ABCN sessions. Do not share personal contact details, social media profiles or business cards with students.
How do I sign up?
Contact your company’s ABCN champion or internal volunteering team. They can tell you which programs are coming up and what steps you need to complete before taking part.
