Explore new volunteering opportunities during National Volunteer Week

“There is a diverse array of opportunities for people in Australia to volunteer within their community alongside something they’re already passionate about,” Mr Pearce said.

“Problems in the community are best addressed in the community, and volunteers are a big part of that.

“People in Australia are already volunteering for a wide variety of organisations, from sport and recreation to environment and animal welfare.

“Getting involved in volunteering can be as simple as sharing your expertise and interests, helping out in your local community, or drawing on your lived experience to support others.

“There really is a volunteer role for everyone.”

The National Strategy for Volunteering 10-year blueprint commences its establishment phase this year and aims to make volunteering more inclusive and accessible while reshaping the public’s perception of volunteering.

“We have every reason to be optimistic despite the challenges being faced,” Mr Pearce said.

“We know volunteering helps people to maintain social connections and gives people a powerful sense of purpose.

“In coming together to create a thriving and effective volunteering ecosystem, volunteers are maintaining social cohesion and helping others who are struggling.

“With the National Strategy for Volunteering as a guiding framework, we are charting a course for a future where volunteering is at the heart of Australian communities.”

Recognising the gap between current volunteers and the wider community, Volunteering Australia is encouraging all people who’ve thought about volunteering to take the leap and know that there’s a volunteer role for everyone.

For more information, visit https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org