Information for volunteers
Why volunteer?
There is a role for everyone, for every age group, every skill base, every interest, and every nationality in volunteering. But why get involved?
- you can learn new skills or share your talents with others
- you can have fun and meet new people
- you can gain a sense of accomplishment
- it can help you improve your employment opportunities
- you or your business can make a difference to your local community
- you can support a cause or event
How do I become a volunteer?
There are several organisations and websites that you can access for help with getting involved in volunteering:
- Volunteering Queensland is the peak body for volunteering in Queensland with a state wide network of volunteer resource centres. Volunteering Queensland can refer you to organisations that need volunteers based on your interests and skills. For more information, contact Volunteering Queensland on 07 3002 7600.
- To find out about volunteering in specific government departments, access the Queensland Government Gateway for a list of all government agencies.
- Volunteering Australia is the national peak body working to advance volunteering in the Australian community. Its role is to represent the diverse views and needs of the volunteer sector while promoting the activity of volunteering as one of enduring social, cultural and economic value.
Recognising volunteers
The Queensland Government recognises and rewards our volunteers in a range of ways including:
- The Queensland Young Volunteer Awards - celebrate the volunteering efforts of young Queenslanders.
- The Premier's Awards for Queensland Seniors - recognises older people who have contributed to Queensland each year.
- The Premier's Queensland Multicultural Service Awards - rewards those who assist new migrants, address racism and support multiculturalism in the community.
Special celebratory dates for volunteers
- National Volunteer Week 2009 will be held from 11-17 May 2009
- International Volunteers Day is held annually on 5 December
Last updated: 03 September 2008.