Volunteering: A Vital Force in Australian Communities

In Australia, volunteering has proven to be a transformative force, not only for individuals but also for communities. With over 9.5 million Australians dedicating their time to various causes, the impact of this selfless act resonates deeply across the nation.

Lucy Stevens, a 24-year-old from Adelaide, embodies the spirit of volunteering. With more than a decade of experience, her journey has taken her from local initiatives to international projects, including a life-changing trip to Zimbabwe and South Africa as part of the Duke of Edinburgh award program in 2018. "It changed my life as a 16-year-old. That's how far volunteering has taken me," she reflects. Recently celebrated as the Young Volunteer Award winner in South Australia, Stevens has managed a team of 40 volunteers at The Smith Family, a children’s charity, highlighting how volunteering can serve as a pathway to employment.

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that in 2025, 16.4% of young Australians aged 15 to 24 participated in formal volunteering, while 22.9% engaged in informal efforts. The trend, however, reveals a concerning stagnation, as volunteering rates have not bounced back to pre-COVID levels. While the commitment of individuals like Stevens showcases the benefits of volunteering, many organizations are struggling to maintain their services due to funding cuts and increased operational costs.

In the heart of Sydney, the Early Bird Cafe, run out of St Stephens Uniting Church, serves as a lifeline for the homeless and needy. Volunteers here prepared over 63,000 meals last financial year, with Carol Lewis, a dedicated volunteer for eight years, emphasizing the significant community connection these efforts foster. However, the cafe has faced a $90,000 drop in grant funding, raising concerns about its sustainability.

Further inland, the Sing Out Choir in Dubbo brings together individuals living with dementia and disabilities, providing a crucial social outlet. Founder Anne Gemmell describes the choir as "medicine for the brain," illustrating the profound impact of music and community on mental health. A team of about 30 volunteers supports these sessions, highlighting the diverse roles volunteers play in enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable groups.

Despite the challenges, the Centre for Volunteering in New South Wales notes that volunteering yields a significant return on investment, estimating that every dollar contributed to volunteering generates five dollars for the community. This underscores the necessity of fostering volunteerism, especially as new pressures from fuel costs and resource availability threaten organizations reliant on volunteer support.

As Australia awaits the latest census results on volunteer participation, the hope remains that communities will continue to recognize and support the invaluable contributions of volunteers, ensuring that this vital force remains strong.

Source: www.abc.net.au