Volunteering & retirement

Vishnu Prasad says volunteering brings a sincere happiness.

Whatever your reasons for changing from full-time paid work to part-time work or retirement, it is useful to plan for the transition financially, emotionally and practically.

Here are some suggestions to start you thinking:

Volunteering

• For example at a health service, as a mentor, a dog walker, a gardener or to record the oral history of older people. Have a look on the Volunteering Victoria website and check out their 'For Volunteers' section for opportunities throughout Victoria.
• Visit Victoria’s Volunteering portal. Look into the City of Melbourne website for volunteering ideas.
• And read inspiring stories about award winning volunteers on the Victorian Premier’s Volunteer champion award website.
• Help with childcare, or caring for the long or short term for family members, friends, or neighbours.

Learning

• Continue your education by taking up a new subject, explore a new field of study, or take up classes to keep your mind healthy and active. Check out the University of the Third Age website to find a U3A near you.

Travelling

• Use your Seniors Card and visit the Discount Directory for information on travel offers.

Exercise

• Get out and about, or a walking group. Visit Victoria Walks website for lots of information, tips and maps

Gardening

• Grow your own vegetables or plants. Read about the benefits of gardening.
• Join a gardening club - check out the Royal Horticultural Society of Victoria website for information on Clubs and Societies and their extensive calendar of events plus their Garden Rambles series.
• Check out Open Gardens Victoria website to find out more about opening your garden, becoming a Friend of Open Gardens, or volunteering.

Get creative

• Get involved in a creative arts program, a choir or photography group. Check out the Victorian Artists Society website.
• Helping others to take up a new hobby in your area of interest, such as painting, bird watching, or tennis.

Interested in low-cost options?

Use your Seniors Card. Visit the Discount Directory for attractions and recreational activities that accept Seniors Cards.

A lot of other programs are also available for free or at low-cost. Start by visiting shopping and recreation for details.

If you are still stuck for ideas, why not chat to friends and family and get their suggestions?