Stage 1: Blended Learning
3 Months
- 10 weekly modules: 9 hrs/week (3 hr session + 2–6 hrs eLearning)
- Sessions delivered via Zoom or in-person (Balgowlah)
- 2 all-day Saturdays (mandatory)
- 2-week assessment period at the end
Ready to make a difference to someone in crisis?
Become a Volunteer Crisis Supporter
Live in the areas of Northern Beaches or Mosman to Kirribilli?
Come join Lifeline Northern Beaches and make a meaningful difference through compassionate listening on the 13 11 14 crisis line.
August Intake Now Open! Training begins on August 20, 2025
Learn more about becoming a Crisis Supporter
We've put together a video to help you understand what it takes to become a crisis supporter with Lifeline. Just fill in the form and we'll send you the video and more information!
Benefits of becoming a Crisis Supporter
A strong sense of purpose and community
Lifelong skills in empathy, listening and calm response
Growth in self-awareness, communication and resilience
A supportive team environment—with trained in person supervisors to debrief every shift
A deep, personal impact on lives in your local area
Nationally accredited training
The Training Program- 3 Stages Over 14 Months
Stage 1: Blended Learning
Stage 2: Student Placement
2 Months
- Minimum 16 logged phone hours, 4 hour shifts, typically completed over 5–6 shifts
- Mid-placement workshop + supervisor assessment
Flexibility is essential. Placement must be completed within the set timeframe of 8 weeks.
Stage 3: Internship
6 to 9 Months
- Minimum 56 logged phone hours
- E-Learning (3-6 hours)
- Masterclass attendance
- 4 Group Supervisions
- 2 Call Coaching
- Final Assessment
Local support, supporting locals.
The impact you make possible.
Lifeline Northern Beaches, Mosman to Kirribilli has been dedicated to delivering vital wellbeing and suicide prevention services in our community since 1968. In that time, we’ve answered over 1 million crisis calls and provided thousands of counselling sessions.
None of this would have been possible without the generosity and support from our local community.
Watch the video to hear from volunteers and help seekers at the heart of our work. Their stories of connection and hope highlight the true power of local support.
Frequently asked questions
What is training?
Lifeline Northern Beaches delivers training on behalf of Lifeline Australia Registered Training Organisation (RTO 88036). This nationally accredited program meets the standards of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) Framework, regulated by ASQA.
Upon successful completion of all three stages, you will receive a Statement of Attainment in the following nationally accredited units:
- CHCCCS003 – Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
- CHCCCS019 – Recognise and respond to crisis situations
- CHCCCS028 – Provide client-centred support to people in crisis
Pre-Enrolment Course Information Booklet (embedded) - Pre-Enrolment Course Information Booklet
How much time will I need to commit?
- Training: ~9 hrs/week for the first 10 weeks
- Placement: ~5–6 shifts over 8 weeks (4 hour shifts)
- Internship: Ongoing 4 hour shifts over 6–9 months
- After training: 92 hours annually (~4 hrs/fortnight)
⚠️ If you work full-time, care for children, or have multiple personal commitments, consider carefully whether this is the right time for you.
What makes a good candidate?
- Self-aware and emotionally grounded
- Empathetic and non-judgmental
- Respectful of all walks of life
- Able to commit to the time involved
- Comfortable with silence and deep listening
- Open to feedback, learning, and growth
Do I need counselling or mental health-related qualifications to volunteer at Lifeline?
No previous training or counselling experience is required – just the desire to help others and to give back to your community.
The training provided to our Crisis Supporters will ensure you are qualified to offer a high standard of crisis support that keeps people safe.
Can I miss a session or submit late work?
No. All sessions are mandatory, including 2 all-day Saturdays.
All eLearning must be completed before the live session each week.
Absences or missed work will delay or disqualify your progression.
Will I hear distressing or confronting content on the phones?
Yes. There is no call screening. Topics can include:
- Suicide
- Self-harm
- Sexual assault
- Domestic and family violence
- Mental illness