New coin and stamp recognise our volunteer army

The Gillard Government today announced 4,600 not-for-profit organisationswill receive Volunteer Grants in recognition of the vital contribution volunteers make to our community.

A commemorative stamp and coin were also launched today to celebrate the United Nations 10th anniversary of International Year of Volunteers (IYV+10).

Volunteers make a significant social and economic contribution to the Australian community, contributing approximately $14.6 billion to the not-for-profit sector each year.

The Gillard Government is committed to supporting our army of volunteers as they work tirelessly in support of their local communities.

The Minister for Social Inclusion Tanya Plibersek and the Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services Julie Collins made the announcement while meeting with Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group, a volunteer-run support group, in Sydney today.

The group will receive more than $4,300 for items including a computer, a public address system, video camera and help with fuel costs.

The 2011 volunteer grants will support more than 200,000 people across Australia who give their time, energy and expertise to volunteering every day.

Grants of up to $5,000 will help organisations purchase much-needed equipment, help with volunteers’ fuel costs, and cover the cost of training courses and background checks.

For the first time, the grants will also help cover transport costs of volunteers with disability who are unable to drive and need to use public transport or taxis as part of their volunteering role.

Over the past year Australian volunteers have given up much of their time and energy to help people affected by recent natural disasters.

To help give back to these tireless volunteers, this year’s volunteer grants are targeted towards organisations that helped disadvantaged individuals, families and communities, particularly those affected by recent natural disasters.

The new collectable 20 cent coin reminds all Australians of the significant role that volunteers play in local communities. The coin features a ring of volunteers around the outside edge while the centre of the coin features the IYV+10 logo.

About five million 20 cent pieces are being made and will be seen in circulation in the coming months. Rolled collectible coins are available from the Mint for $14.00 each.

To find out more about Volunteer Grants 2011 visit www.fahcsia.gov.au or call 1800 183 374.

For more information about the new coin please visit www.ramint.gov.au or contact the Royal Australian Mint Call Centre on 1300 652 020. The souvenir stamp can be purchased online at http://shop.auspost.com.au or at your local post office.

Volunteer Grants 2011 recipients by state/territory

State / Territory

Number of Organisations
Funded

Total Funding

ACT

15

$41,000

NSW

1,525

$5,183,000

NT

33

$130,000

QLD

953

$3,408,000

SA

224

$722,000

TAS

165

$541,000

VIC

1,488

$5,171,000

WA

235

$804,000

TOTAL

4,638

$16 million