CSG expects record volunteer intake
CSG Victoria says volunteer interest has surged since the Bondi Beach terror attack.
Community Security Group Victoria is anticipating one of its largest ever recruitment drives this month, with interest from volunteers surging in the wake of the Bondi Beach terror attack.
CSG Victoria CEO Justin Kagan said the organisation had received multiple phone calls from community members eager to get involved following the January attack.
“Post October 7, the intakes we’ve had at the CSG have been much bigger than we’ve ever seen before, and we’re expecting that to continue, if not get even bigger this year, on the back of Bondi Beach,” Kagan said.
The security organisation has expanded its role since October 7 2023, taking on broader communal leadership responsibilities including crisis management, and psychological support for its volunteers
“We definitely understand the community needs to hear from us, and they need to hear from us quickly,” Kagan said.
“We’re doing everything we can to be as proactive with our communication and standing up to lead the community in what have been some pretty dark days post October 7.”
Asked whether the intense security demands of recent years were sustainable, Kagan was emphatic.
“The answer is yes. It’s an unequivocal yes. We don’t have a choice. We are very resilient in the CSG.”
He said volunteer numbers and retention rates had never been higher, with protectors committed to the long haul.
“They understand probably more now than ever the need for the CSG for community.”
Kagan emphasised that CSG offers diverse volunteer opportunities beyond the visible security presence on the streets.
“It’s not only the people you see standing on the street. We have roles inside the office as well doing various different things,” he said.
He encouraged anyone interested in contributing to attend upcoming information evenings.
“We want to encourage everyone that’s interested in adding value to the community and giving back via the CSG to come to one of those information nights, and then they’ll understand more about what the options are available to them.”
The organisation’s focus remains on ensuring Melbourne’s Jewish community can continue to live a proudly Jewish way of life.
Information evenings for prospective CSG Victoria volunteers will be held throughout March.
More info: csgvic.com.au