One Friday and Saturday a month from 10pm to 3am, volunteers are stationed in Salamanca Place, offering practical support and a compassionate presence to partygoers.
In October 2025 the program was honoured with the Safety Award at the Tasmanian Community Achievement Awards, proudly sponsored by the Motor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB).
Recognisable by their fluorescent vests and friendly smiles, Street Team volunteers play a vital role in harm reduction and community care during peak nightlife hours.
Zac Lockhart from the Salvation Army said the win came as a surprise to the team.
“It was humbling, especially with so many other great finalists,” he said.
“Street Teams are quiet achievers, so to have the spotlight on them means a lot to the volunteers and a huge morale boost for the team, shining a light on a program that many people might never encounter unless they’re out late at night.
“It also brings greater awareness to the volunteer opportunities required to run the service, as we are always keen for more people to give their time to our service”.
Despite only 15 regular volunteers, each member commits to monthly shifts, giving up their own Friday or Saturday nights to make a difference in someone else’s.
Zac said the most rewarding moments were when people returned to share their gratitude.
“We’ve had people come back after being sent to hospital, just to say thank you. That kind of feedback really means a lot,” he said.
The program supports safe driving, with assistance regularly given to people seeking a safe ride home, or a warm drink to designated drivers needing a pick me up while supporting their friends.
The team also help address the general and mental health needs of party goers and often serves as eyes and ears for emergency services, maintaining strong partnerships with police and paramedics and providing first aid and mental health first aid.
Whether it’s offering a listening ear, a bottle of water, or help finding a ride home, the Street Teams provide a unique, multi-faceted service grounded in empathy and practical care — making Tasmania’s nightlife safer for everyone.
