Celebrating the State's valuable volunteers

Last published on 21 May 2021 

The state’s best and brightest volunteers will be recognised for their dedication and countless hours of community service as part of the 2021 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, with nominations now open.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Mark Speakman said the opening of nominations for the awards coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week – this year’s theme is Recognise. Reconnect. Reimagine.

“The past 12 months have highlighted the pivotal role volunteers play in shaping and supporting our local communities. Volunteer week is an opportunity to shine a light on those people who put service above self,” Mr Speakman said.

“Whether they are from your local sporting club, volunteer rescue association or community group, if you know a local hero who is helping make your community a better place every day, nominate them for this year’s Volunteer of the Year Awards.”

The awards, now in their 15th year and run by the Centre for Volunteering, recognised more than 118,000 Volunteers last year from across the state.

Volunteers can be nominated for one of eight categories, including:

• Adult Volunteer of the Year;
• Young Volunteer of the Year;
• Senior Volunteer of the Year
• Volunteer Team of the Year;
• Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Individual);
• Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Team);
• Club Volunteer of the Year; and
• Excellence in Volunteer Management.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the awards were a way to thank, recognise and celebrate the efforts of the state’s 2.4 million volunteers

“The awards are a vital way for every one of us to say thank you for the invaluable contribution of our volunteers,” Ms Rygate said.

Nominations close on Friday, 9 July 2021. For more information, visit the website.

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