Volunteering in Tuvalu
Halfway between Australia and Hawaii lies the tiny Pacific nation of Tuvalu, one of the world’s smallest and most remote countries.
About Tuvalu
While Tuvalu is one of the world’s least-visited countries, white sandy beaches, a warm tropical climate, and a vibrant Polynesian culture come together to make Tuvalu a truly under-rated destination.
Tuvalu is home to 11,000 people, with more than half of the population living in the capital Funafuti, where most government infrastructure and services are based. These include parliament, the courts, main businesses, the main hospital, the maritime training school and the airport.
The island nation's growth is constrained by its geographic isolation and small population, and as a result Tuvalu faces a number of challenges.
The islands are small and there are limited open spaces. When the airport runway is not in use, its converted into a playground where children play a variety of sports including basketball, rugby and volleyball.
Access to health services is limited to the main hospital as chemists, pharmacies and private doctors are not available.
Due to the islands' low elevation the devastating impact of tropical cyclones and rising sea levels are a constant threat to survival.
Volunteering opportunities in Tuvalu support communities across a range of development priorities, including:
- governance
- economic growth
- education
- health
- environmental resilience
Read more about our impact in Tuvalu in our country fact sheet.

Food is such an important part of Tuvaluan life, and a favourite snack of our local team and volunteers is Breadfruit Chips.
Download the recipe for Breadfruit Chips
Life as a volunteer in Tuvalu
Cultural sensitivities, dress and alcohol
Religion plays an important part in daily life. Sunday for many Tuvaluans is reserved for resting and attending church. Volunteers should ensure alternative activities on Sunday do not cause any disruption.
Dress is usually casual but it is customary for women to keep their thighs covered and to dress modestly for religious services.
Alcohol can be purchased in shops, including a local alcohol made from coconut tree sap called 'kao'.
Language
Tuvaluan and English are the national languages. Volunteers will have opportunities to learn Tuvaluan.
Climate
Tuvalu is typically tropical with a wet season from November to March. Severe tropical storms are rare although they can cause severe flooding. If a dry season is unusually long, water can become scarce, which is problematic as rain water is the only source to fill water tanks.
Telecommunications
Internet connectivity can be challenging and expensive in Tuvalu. However, the World Bank recently approved a grant to develop Tuvalu’s internet network which should improve services.
Food
Fresh vegetables and fruit may be difficult to buy as most produce is imported from overseas. Small supermarkets, shops and markets are available but special dietary requirements are not catered for. Purchasing specialty food items prior to arrival is strongly recommended.
Accommodation and transport
Furnished apartments by the beach are available to rent and can be organised through the in-country team.
With few roads and a small population, walking is a safe and easy way to get around. Locals tend to prefer motorbikes with many volunteers opting for push-bikes.
Security
Tuvalu is considered quite safe and relatively crime-free. Volunteers are welcomed with warm smiles and are well looked after by the community. Like any country, volunteers should be remain vigilant with regards to their personal safety.
Accessibility
We’re committed to ensuring that international volunteering is inclusive and accessible to Australians from a range of backgrounds, with diverse perspectives, identities and abilities.
To support this, access and inclusion plans are available for volunteers with disabilities to assess their needs and ensure their living and working requirements are fully considered. Indigenous Pathways is an Indigenous-led program that focuses on providing culturally safe, flexible and tailored support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander volunteers.
Before applying for a volunteering assignment in Tuvalu, please do some further research on living in Tuvalu and the organisation you are hoping to volunteer with. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to discuss expected living and working arrangements with their recruitment officer.

Discover how an Australian volunteer supported the Tuvaluan Government to protect and advocate for children
Learn more