Step10 Challenge - Walk Leaders & Walk Volunteers - Information Page
Are you passionate about walking and keen to inspire women to take up walking or walk more steps this Spring?
Victoria Walks, together with our partners, is supporting women who want to take part in our Step10 Challenge to build their social connection, physical activity and walking confidence over a 10-week period.
Conducted between September and early December, the Step10 Challenge is a weekly schedule of 3 x per week walks, which will be free for participants, building up to a final 10km celebration walk.
Our research has shown that women and girls feel more comfortable to come along to a walk when they know there will be leaders to meet and guide them, so this is suitable for people who have good social skills and a desire to make people feel supported.
We encourage applications from those with lived experience relevant to our participants. Based on co-design feedback, we are especially seeking Walk Leaders & Walk Volunteers who can create a welcoming and socially safe environment for participants.
We will be seeking one Walk Leader to be available for the majority of the schedule – see role description here, and multiple Walk Volunteers to support the walk leader when they are available – see role description here.
Key skills/attributes:
- Have a positive, friendly attitude and willingness to engage with people from diverse backgrounds
- Have a passion for walking and be physically able to undertake the schedule
- Have an interest in empowering people and an empathy for personal challenges
- Have excellent communication and interpersonal skill
- Be available to assist with the administrative requirements for the period of the challenge.
Benefits:
- Enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits walking on a regular basis, as well as support local women and girls to build social connections and increase physical activity.
- Branded hat and t-shirt
- Meet people from a broad range of backgrounds
- There are further benefits for Walks Leaders or Walk Volunteers outlined in the role descriptions.
Walk Leaders and Walk Volunteers will be required to view an induction video with information on the challenge, routes, participants and facilitating welcoming and inclusive environments. This ensures that everyone has the knowledge and skills to provide information and assistance to participants.
You will be required to provide your own transport to and from locations. Note that public transport may not always be easily accessible at locations.
If you are interested, please complete our Expression of Interest form - here
The program coordinator will be in touch with further details.
Enquiries: supporter@victoriawalks.org.au
Resources:
> Experience things for a participant’s point of view - here
> Creating safe sport spaces, A research report prepared for VicHealth, by La Trobe University, March 2025
Here are five key points summarised from the report:
- Emphasise Social Support and Inclusion
A safe space is defined as one where participants feel they can be themselves and are free from judgement. Walk leaders should actively foster a supportive and encouraging group culture, welcoming all participants equally and helping everyone feel included and valued. - Design for Confidence and Soft Entry
Many participants—particularly less active or culturally diverse individuals—benefit from “soft-entry” opportunities. Leaders should ensure walks are beginner-friendly, clearly described, and accommodating to a range of abilities, with no expectation of prior experience. This builds confidence and reduces fear of being judged. - Build Belonging Through Consistency and Flexibility
Participants value routine and predictability, but also flexibility. Walk leaders should maintain consistent session formats (e.g., same day/time/meeting spot), while also being prepared to adjust pace or route to meet diverse needs and ensure continued engagement. - Model Positive Communication and Behaviour
Leaders should model inclusive and respectful behaviour and be equipped to gently manage any issues. Displaying empathy, using positive affirmations, and proactively introducing new participants to others are key ways to strengthen group cohesion and psychological safety. - Understand Environmental and Personal Safety Needs
Safe spaces also consider the built environment. Leaders should be aware of visibility, lighting, and perceived safety on walking routes. Where possible, routes should avoid isolated areas and allow for easy exit or assistance if needed. Encouraging participants to share safety concerns also builds trust.