As we begin 2025, we are challenged by the impingement of world events in our lives in Australia, and how we might play our part to help peacefully navigate our way through. Fundamentally, the Palms contribution to this effort has been to facilitate international volunteering, which changes lives in our host communities, and those of our volunteers. You will notice that the banner to this Palms Post has changed to more clearly reflect our core function. It is our new trading name. I hope you like it!
Director’s Reflection
Applying Palms Skills in Australia
Many of the new exercises I introduced into the Orientation Course call on participants to reflect on past experiences of interculturality and cultural humility. Read more…
Welcome to Our New Leadership
| We’re delighted to introduce Edith Hurt as our new Global Programs Manager. Edith brings invaluable understanding of international volunteering through providing support for several of her family members who completed long term placements, including in Timor-Leste at Klibur Domin. Edith brings extensive project and stakeholder management expertise across multiple sectors. Her background in partnering with grassroots organisations and supporting volunteers aligns perfectly with our values of solidarity and participative community building. |
Experience Timor Leste
July 2025 Encounter Tour
Immerse yourself in a transformative journey from July 8-19, 2025. Choose between:
- Active Encounter: Engagement with community projects interspersed with spectacular hikes
- Cultural Focus: Deep dive into Timorese traditions and daily life
Support Our Mission
Kingsgrove BBQ Fundraiser
Join us at Bunnings in Kingsgrove on Saturday, February 8th, 2025 (Between 8am-5pm) for a community fundraising event supporting our Global Mission program. Want to help? Contact Emily
- Email: emily@ palms.org.au
- Phone: 0422 472 567
Frontline Inspiration
Making a Difference in Limpopo
A moving tribute to Carmel’s work at the Holy Family Care Centre in South Africa, where every small action creates ripples of positive change. From mentoring staff through complex governmental requirements to providing crucial outreach support for vulnerable youth, Carmel exemplifies our values of acting justly, walking humbly, and loving tenderly. Read more…
Current Opportunities to Serve
Our partner communities are seeking skilled volunteers who can contribute to sustainable development initiatives. View all current opportunities or contact us:
- Phone: (02) 9560 5333
- Email: palms@palms.org.au
This short placement video and these personal testimonies will inspire you to REACH BEYOND.
View all current opportunities
Milestone Achievement
107th Pre-Departure Training
January 9-12 marked another successful training course, preparing five dedicated volunteers for assignments in the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Papua New Guinea. The comprehensive program covered:
- Palms History and Values
- Strengths-Based Development
- Cultural Simulation
- Health and Safety
- Language Training
- Risk Management
- Monitoring and Evaluation
Let’s continue building bridges of solidarity across cultures, one relationship at a time.
Other News
Pacific Girls in a Changing Climate – Plan International. Read here…
How is the World Really Doing on the SDG’s – Brookings. Read here…