National Volunteer Week 20-26 May: Celebrating volunteers who are making a world of difference.

Volunteering Australia is celebrating how volunteers are Making a world of difference by acknowledging the almost six million formal volunteers and many others who volunteer informally, and provide immeasurable support in their communities.

2019 marks 30 years of National Volunteer Week (NVW), with the week growing to be the largest celebration of volunteers and volunteerism in Australia.

“Australia’s volunteers provide indispensable support to organisations and communities, and deserve recognition for the substantial social, economic and cultural contributions they make at local, national and global levels", Volunteering Australia CEO Adrienne Picone said.

To celebrate National Volunteer Week this year, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) and Her Excellency Lady Cosgrove, will host an afternoon tea at Government House on Tuesday 21 May. “Volunteers make a world of difference to our communities and indeed our nation. National Volunteer Week is a week for all Australians to acknowledge and thank those who give back. On behalf of all Australians, to all the millions of volunteers – thank you,” the Governor-General said.

Volunteering Australia encourages everyone to get involved in volunteering. To find an opportunity that suits you visit GoVolunteer or contact your local State or Territory volunteering peak body. 

The CBAA State of the Community Radio Sector report brings together a range of data sources to provide insights into Australia’s community broadcasting sector. It shows the sector’s important contribution to the diversity, inclusiveness and social cohesion that characterises Australia’s open society and reinforces its cultural vibrancy. The community radio sector is powered by the efforts and dedication of over 26,000 volunteers. Over half of community radio stations are entirely volunteer run with 17% of volunteers under 26 years of age. These volunteers are critical and play a central role in the operations and delivery of community radio services.