Millions of Volunteers Thanked in National Volunteer Week

Volunteering Australia has engaged 18 ‘real life’ volunteers to grace its posters and social media pages to promote this year’s National Volunteer Week.

Described as 18 inspirational individuals, Volunteering Australia says each has a volunteering story to tell.

The work and generosity of more than 6 million Australians who volunteer their time to help others is being recognised this week as part of National Volunteer Week.

This year’s theme, ‘Thanks a Million’ recognises Australians who volunteer their time and skills to do good.

Minister for Social Inclusion Mark Butler said volunteers gave more than 730 million hours of their time each year across a range of volunteering tasks.

“This is a massive contribution to our economic, social and cultural life, and National Volunteer Week provides an opportunity to collectively thank volunteers for their efforts,” he said.

“National Volunteer Week will focus on stories from volunteers and from people whose lives have been positively influenced by volunteers.

“These stories remind us that volunteers come from all walks of life and all Australians can make a positive contribution to their communities, no matter how big or small.”

Applicants for The Federal Government’s $16 million Volunteer Grants initiative are currently being assessed.

Successful applicants will be eligible to receive grants of up to $5,000.

Minister for Community Services Julie Collins said the grants could be used to cover a range of costs and equipment needs.

“Last year’s 4,800 grants to community organisations helped more than 166,000 volunteers, acknowledging their exceptional work, helping to achieve a better quality of life for individuals and their communities,” she said.

National Volunteer Week was launched on Monday at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.