Short-term teams

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can go on a short-term team from Gateway?

Short-term teams are designed for people who regularly attend Gateway and have faith in Jesus. Participants generally need to be over 18 years old. In some cases, exceptions can be made if a parent is accompanying a minor. Some local teams are designed with families in mind, especially during school holidays. If someone under 18 would like to participate, they must be accompanied by a parent. All participants over 18 need to obtain a volunteer Blue Card, and we’ll help guide you through that process.

What am I signing up for?

A short-term team is an intentional discipleship and mission program. It’s an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, grow in your faith, and serve alongside what God is already doing in another place. Participants are expected to fully engage with the team, the ministry, and the purpose of the outreach.

Is it safe?

Gateway does not send teams to locations where the Australian Government’s Smart Traveller advice indicates “Do Not Travel”. We regularly monitor travel advice and stay in close contact with our Gateway Beyond workers and trusted national partners on the ground. Teams only travel where there are established ministry relationships and safe arrangements in place.

How much does it cost and when do I pay?

Every participant on a short-term team pays their own way and the cost depends on the location, duration, and type of ministry involved. Most team budgets include food, accommodation, transport, and ministry expenses. Some local teams list food and accommodation as a separate cost. Participants are responsible for additional personal expenses such as visas, immunisations, passports, travel insurance, personal spending, and any medications.

Once you are accepted onto a team, a deposit is required to secure your place: $50 for Australian teams and $500 for international teams. The remaining balance will be scheduled by the team leaders once flights, accommodation, and other costs are confirmed and booked. This is usually 2–3 months in advance.

What kind of commitment is involved?

Short-term teams include preparation meetings before departure. These usually take place weekly for around 4–8 weeks, depending on the outreach. These gatherings help the team grow together, prepare spiritually, and understand the ministry they’ll be part of.

Who leads the team?

Each short-term team is led by experienced and approved Gateway team leaders under the oversight of the Gateway Beyond pastors. Team leaders organise the ministry schedule with the local hosts, oversee the budget, and guide the team through all ministry activities while working closely with the host organisation.

Will we have days off while we’re away?

Depending on the length of the outreach, it’s common for teams to have one day off each week. What this looks like can vary depending on the team and location, but it usually provides a chance to rest, explore the area a little, and spend time together as a team.

How long are short-term teams away for?

Most Gateway short-term teams run for 1–3 weeks. Exact dates are listed with each team as soon as they’re available.

What is the application process?

The process usually looks like this:

1. Submit an expression of interest
2. Receive an invitation to apply for a specific team
3. Provide a pastoral or leadership reference.
4. If accepted, pay the deposit and complete required paperwork. You will also complete the Blue Card process if you are over 18 and don’t have one yet.
5. Closer to the time, your team leader will contact you, and you'll begin the preparation process with your team.

Leading people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus

Step out and stretch your faith

Future teams

Philippines

Japan

Goondiwindi

Cambodia

Murgon

Kenya

Egypt

Ethiopia

Uganda

Brisbane

Thailand

India