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Volunteer at Strawberry - FAQ's

Updated today

Applications to volunteer at Strawberry Fields Festival 2025 are open from July 14th and close on August 9th.

Event volunteers have the opportunity to participate in the following roles/departments:

Welcoming Committee - Supporting traffic and bus facilitation upon ingress and egress, facilitation of Glamping check-in and Glamping services, as well as assisting with front gate operations and ticketing at the main entrance throughout the festival.

Sustainability - Participating in the sustainability department may involve, but is not limited to, assisting with bin flipping, recycling, litter picking, sorting, cleaning, and distributing items through the Rewash program.

Crowd Care - The crowd care program at SFF is called Strawberry Fielders. Volunteers are stationed throughout the campsites to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at the event. Responsibilities may include disseminating general event info, handing out rubbish bags, sunscreen, and smiles, engaging with patrons, promoting safe partying, and escalating to other onsite services where required.

Specialty Roles - If you are interested in being more involved at the event, volunteering in HQ, or participating during setup and pack-down, and have carpentry or other trade skills, we may have a specialty role for you!

Exchange

Event volunteers are asked to complete 2 x 4.5-hour shifts in exchange for their Volunteer Ticket to the festival.

The set-up and pack-down participant exchange may vary and will be confirmed if you are a successful applicant. The exchange typically occurs over two 8-hour days, either before or after the event.


IMPORTANT ENGAGEMENT DATES


Applications Open - 14 July 2025

Applications Close - 1 August 2025

Confirmations Begin - 8 September 2025

The Volunteer Support Team will email weekly rounds of offers; it may take a few weeks for you to hear from us!

Roster Delivery - 27 October 2025

Your allocated role, shift times and other pre-event info will become available at this time.


APPLYING TO VOLUNTEER


How do I apply to volunteer?

Applications to volunteer at Strawberry Fields Festival 2025 will open July 14th and close on August 9th.

We suggest rallying the troops early, as we will not be accepting any further applications once the deadline has passed.

If I didn’t apply to be a volunteer during the nominated dates can I go on the waiting list?

Due to the high number of applications, we will not be opening the waiting list to new applicants at this stage. If anything changes, we will update the FAQs to reflect this closer to the event.

What makes a good volunteer?

We love accountable, communicative, organised and easy-going volunteers who love teamwork! The Volunteer Support Team is looking for participants who are all about our ethos of the "Volunteer Experience"

We ask that all volunteers are organised and prepared and take responsibility for informing us of any issues or changes to their availability; these qualities help us navigate the dynamic experience of managing a festival.

A positive mental attitude and costumes are highly encouraged.

What is the “Volunteer Experience”?

We’re looking for volunteers who want to be part of something bigger than just attending the festival—people who value giving back, contributing to a great event, and embracing the spirit of teamwork. Sometimes this means giving up a little prime party time, but the rewards of being part of the team are worth it!

How many hours do I have to volunteer for?

Generally, we ask our Event Volunteers to complete 2 x 4.5-hour shifts in exchange for a Volunteer Ticket to the event which includes camping and access to the event area; however, it does not include a vehicle pass or bus ticket.

Set-up and Pack-down Volunteers must complete a minimum of 2 x 8-hour shifts in exchange for their Volunteer Ticket. This exchange is more involved as they do not give up any of their time during the event, and we want to engage people willing to be part of the crew that builds this fantastic festival.

If you are a successful applicant, we will specify what exchange is on offer at the time of confirmation.

Can I volunteer with my friends?

We will do our best to schedule you with friends who have provided the same unique group name. However, this cannot be guaranteed and should not be an expectation of volunteering.

Please ensure you all use the same unique group name (do not use individual names). Variations of spelling make it difficult for us to identify you and reduce the chance you will be rostered together.


ACCEPTANCE AND AGREEMENT


How do I accept my volunteer position?

If you’re accepted into the program, you’ll receive an email from the Volunteer Support Team confirming your engagement and allocated role.

To secure your position, please complete the Volunteer Agreement within the timeframe outlined in the email.


We recommend regularly checking your inbox (and your junk folder—just in case!) and saving us as a contact so you don’t miss any important updates.
If we don’t receive your completed agreement in time, your role may be reallocated to someone on the waitlist.

What is the Volunteer Agreement?

The Volunteer Agreement is a formal step to confirm your place in the program. It outlines what’s expected of you as a volunteer and what you’ll receive in return.

To complete it, you’ll pay a non-refundable admin fee via our secure payment system (Stripe). This secures your place in the program and entitles you to a Volunteer Ticket.

If you don’t complete your shifts or break the terms of the agreement, you may be back-charged the cost of a final round festival ticket ($458), plus a $100 admin fee.
In this instance, the Volunteer Support Team will discuss this with you.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au.

When do I find out if I have successfully applied to volunteer?

We will send out weekly rounds of offers starting September 16th, 2024.

You will receive an email to confirm if you have been successful.

We recommend regularly checking your emails starting on September 16th.

The volunteer support team will notify all unsuccessful applicants via email, and you can go on the waiting list.

What happens if I miss a volunteer shift?

We understand that sometimes things happen. If you miss a shift, please head to Vollie HQ and speak to the Volunteer Support Team as soon as possible so we can work out a solution with you.

If you don’t check in with the team before you leave the festival, and your exchange is incomplete (as required by the Volunteer Agreement), you may be charged the cost of a final round festival ticket ($458) plus a $100 administrative fee.

We’re here to help — communication is key!

Can I complete my Volunteer Agreement with an international bank account?

We require you to use an Australian bank account to complete the Volunteer Agreement process.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au.

Is the Volunteer Agreement fee refundable if I withdraw from the program?

The Volunteer Agreement fee is non-refundable. This fee helps cover the costs of processing your application and funding other aspects of the program — even if you’re no longer able to attend.

If you're unsure about your availability, please consider this before committing to the program.

We understand that life can throw curveballs. Please contact us if you need to withdraw.

Can I transfer my volunteer spot to someone else if I can’t make it?

If you can no longer attend, and the person you'd like to take your place has already submitted a volunteer application during the official application period, we may be able to transfer your spot to them, depending on the program's needs and their availability.
Unfortunately, we can’t offer your place to anyone who didn’t apply before the deadline.

How do I update my contact or payment details?

If any of your details change — like your email address, phone number, or payment method — just shoot us a message at volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au.
This helps us keep your info up to date, process your application smoothly, and make sure you don’t miss any important updates.


ROLES AND ROSTERS


What kinds of volunteer roles can I apply for?

Most volunteer roles support the festival through teams like the Welcoming Committee (Ticketing, Traffic, Buses, and Glamping), Sustainability, and our Strawberry Fielder (Crowd Care) crew.

There are also a limited number of specialty roles — like assisting the Volunteer Coordinators in HQ, helping at the Info Tent, or joining the Set-up and Pack-down team.

Please note: the Build Crew is a separate program from the general volunteer program.

We’ll do our best to match you with your preferred role, but we can’t always guarantee first picks. You’ll find more information on each department in the application form, and if you're accepted, we’ll email you a detailed role description.

When will I receive my shift times and volunteer info?

You’ll receive your shift times and a Volunteer Handbook on October 27, 2025 — this will include your role description, what to bring, and how to arrive and check in.

When allocating your shift times, we take into account the availability and info you provided in your application.

If anything’s changed since then, just shoot us an email at volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au so we can update your availability ASAP.

Are shift changes possible?

We build the roster based on the availability you provide in your application, so shift changes aren't typically possible once rosters are released.

That said, we understand that unexpected things can come up. If your circumstances change, please email volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au as soon as possible — we’ll do our best to help, but we can’t guarantee alternative shifts will be available.


ARRIVAL AND ONSITE ESSENTIALS


When do I need to arrive at the festival?

Your arrival day depends on when your first scheduled shift is.


You are required to arrive during advertised gate opening times.

To help things run smoothly, we ask that you arrive at least one day before your first shift — this gives you time to check in, set up your campsite, and settle in before you jump into action.

For example, if your first shift is on Friday, November 21st, you’ll need to arrive on Thursday.If your shift is earlier (like Thursday), we’ll reach out with specific instructions for early entry.

Either way, arriving a day before your first shift gives you breathing room to settle in — and helps make sure we have all the boots on the ground to deliver a world-class festival experience..

Can I come early, and can my friends come early with me?

Only volunteers who are approved for set-up or to arrive on Wednesday, 19 November, can come before the official gate opening times on Thursday.

General admission ticket holders will not be able to arrive with you unless it is during the advertised gate opening times.

All volunteers are welcome to arrive on Thursday, 20 November, during advertised gate hours with a standard vehicle pass.

If you have been approved to arrive before the festival opens, you will receive arrival instructions via email closer to the event.

How and where do I sign on and off for my shifts?

You’ll need to sign on and off for each shift at Vollie HQ — this is how we track that you’ve completed your volunteer exchange.

Where? Vollie HQ, located next to the Info Tent. A map with all key locations will be provided before the festival.

When? Please arrive 15 minutes before your shift so you’ve got time to settle in and be ready to go.

The team at HQ are here to support you — but we also rely on your accountability. If anything comes up that might affect your shift, please let us know early so we can help out.

Signing in and out is essential to fulfilling your Volunteer Agreement and helps us keep everything on track for a smooth, stress-free festival for everyone.

Do I have a uniform?

There’s no set uniform, but there are a few essentials you must bring:

  • Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for all volunteers.

  • If you’re working during the day, be sure to bring a sunhat, sun-smart clothing, and a water bottle.

  • You’ll be provided with any PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required for your shift — just remember to return it afterwards.

We also recommend packing for all conditions:
Think layers, waterproofs, something sun-smart, and something warm for the evenings. Bring a torch or headlamp, snacks, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and happy.

Is there a volunteer camping area?

Last year, we trialled a dedicated Volunteer Campground to help volunteers connect, build community, and feel part of something bigger.

In 2025, we’re looking to improve this space even more — with details to be confirmed closer to the festival. Stay tuned!

Is accommodation provided to volunteers?

Strawberry Fields is a BYO camping event, so volunteers will need to bring their own camping gear (tent, mat, sleeping bag, etc.).

For an added level of comfort, glamping and pre-set camping options are available for purchase. Head to the Accommodation section of the website for more information.

Is food provided for volunteers?

If you're volunteering during the festival, meals aren't included in your exchange — but there’ll be plenty of delicious food stalls to choose from.

You’ll have access to tea, coffee and snacks at the beginning of your shift from the Welfare Station in Vollie HQ (don’t forget your travel mug!).

If you're part of the set-up or pack-down crew, meals will be provided before and after the festival, when food stalls aren’t open.

Please also remember: naked flames and cookers aren’t allowed onsite — so plan your meals accordingly and check the terms of entry ahead of time.

Who can I talk to about my volunteer experience?

If you feel comfortable speaking with one of the Volunteer Support Team members, please approach the HQ Manager during the festival.

For anything pre-event or post-event feedback, please email volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au.

If you wish to speak with someone else, you can email info@strawberry-fields.com.au.


TICKETS AND TRANSPORT


Do I need to buy a festival ticket if I’m volunteering?

If you’re accepted into the volunteer program and complete your Volunteer Agreement, we’ll send you a complimentary Volunteer Ticket via email, before the festival — just make sure you confirm your place by completing the agreement on time.

If you are volunteering, you must enter the festival on your Volunteer Ticket, as refunds will not be issued after the event.

That said, not everyone who applies will receive a position. If you absolutely don’t want to miss out on attending the festival, we recommend securing a festival ticket and vehicle pass through the ballot or general sale.

If you’re later offered (and accept) a volunteer role, you can resell your purchased festival ticket via Humanitix by managing your order— though you might want to hang onto your vehicle pass!

What do I do if I already bought a ticket to the festival?

If you’ve already bought a festival ticket and then get accepted as a volunteer, you’ll need to enter the festival on your Volunteer Ticket (not your purchased ticket) to ensure your volunteer exchange is valid.

You can resell your purchased festival ticket by clicking manage order on your order confirmation email — just make sure you’ve secured your volunteer position by completing the Volunteer Agreement before doing so.

For any questions or assistance, please email volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au.

Is a vehicle pass included with my volunteer ticket?

Nope — your Volunteer Ticket gives you access to the festival and camping, but it doesn’t include a vehicle pass.

If you plan on driving to the festival, you’ll need to secure a vehicle pass separately through the main ticketing system or Humanitix resale platform.

Check out the Travel section of the website for more options on how you can get to the festival!

If you are relying on a vehicle pass to get to the festival and are unable to secure one, please email volunteers@strawberry-fields.com.au to let the Volunteer Support Team know.

How and when will I get my Volunteer Ticket?

If you’re accepted into the volunteer program and complete your Volunteer Agreement, you’ll receive your Volunteer Ticket via email roughly two weeks before the festival.

Make sure to keep an eye on your inbox (and junk folder — just in case), and add us to your contacts so our emails don’t get lost in cyberspace.

The Volunteer Support Team will communicate a specific timeline with you once you’re accepted into the program.

Is there a shuttle or bus service for volunteers?

We have reduced the Volunteer Agreement fee this year, and as such will not be offering discounted bus tickets for volunteers.

An Early Bus (arriving Wednesday, 19 November) and a Late Bus (departing after 12pm on Monday, 24 November) will be available for volunteers approved for Wednesday Access or late departure.


If this applies to you, the Volunteer Support Team will email you with instructions on how to access and purchase these bus tickets.

Volunteers can also book a seat on the Strawberry Fields Bus (SF Bus). Please remember, we ask all volunteers to arrive the day before your first shift to help keep everything running smoothly.

A free shuttle will also run between Tocumwal Station and the festival site, timed with the train schedule. You’ll need to register for this service via the website — bookings will open closer to the event.

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