International Volunteer Day celebrated

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, today encouraged organisations to recognise the work of their volunteers.

Mr Brough said this year marked the 20th anniversary of International Volunteer Day by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985.

“Volunteers play a very important role in Australian communities and this is an opportunity to thank all who volunteer for their continued hard work and commitment,” Mr Brough said.

“Millions of Australians volunteer their time selflessly each year to assist their communities and the needy”.

“Today is all about the community, business and the media recognising and celebrating the contribution that volunteers make to our community.

The Australian Government supports Australia’s volunteers through a diverse array of supports including grant programs as well programs to boost volunteering skills. Charitable and community organisations that depend on volunteer support often have access to concessional tax provisions to help them do their work.

“The Australian Government provides several million dollars annually to thousands of community groups with volunteer small equipment grants to support the work volunteers do on top of the general support programs.”

“This year we have provided funding of over $8 million on volunteering programs.”

“Volunteering is a great Australian tradition and today represents an opportunity for us all to pause and recognise all those who participate in volunteering,” Mr Brough said.