The week of May 16 2022 is National Volunteers Week.
It’s a week to highlight the importance of volunteering and acknowledge and thank those that give their time to volunteer for the benefit of others.
The impact volunteers have on local communities, both socially and economically can never be underestimated.
The past two years has really highlighted the strength of volunteering as communities across the nation have battled drought, bushfire and a global pandemic.
Amidst the pandemic, while many of us stayed home, volunteers continued to deliver essential services, organise food packages and offer care, comfort and more to support the well-being of Australians.
Volunteering is a key part of the bigger picture in our society, one that increases the strength, resilience and wellbeing of our community. It comes in all shapes and sizes – from a casual “yes I’ll help” through to a regular gig with one of the many community organisations who work tirelessly to help those in need.
Around 8.7 million Australians regularly volunteer their skills, services and time to improve the lives of those around them.
Not only is volunteering a great community service – it also has enormous financial value – a value estimated in Australian’s case to be around $290 billion per annum.
To all volunteer’s past and present – thank you for the vital role you play each and every day, and for making our communities stronger, especially during times of need, crisis and isolation.
Tony Pasin MP
Member for Barker
