Discussion paper on volunteers

Better recognition of volunteers, a broader definition of volunteering, and greater encouragement of young volunteers, are among key issues raised in a discussion paper presented to Federal Parliament by the House of Representatives Family and Community Committee.

The paper encourages a dynamic, innovative and sustainable voluntary sector, and recognises the potential for growth in corporate volunteering.

Releasing the discussion paper Committee Chair, Ms Annette Ellis MP, said: “Volunteering has long been a tradition in Australia, and its importance to building strong and inclusive communities is as great today as it always has been.

“There are indications, however, that the rates and patterns of volunteering are changing.

“Many organisations, including community based organisations that rely heavily on their volunteers to deliver social services, are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain volunteers.”

To address this challenge, the Committee supports the need for community based organisations to be increasingly proactive and innovative in their interactions with groups of potential volunteers, including younger people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

According to the Committee, the growth of corporate volunteering presents the voluntary and private sectors with a host of new opportunities which have yet to be fully realised.

“To fully harness this potential, the Committee strongly encourages continued dialogue and engagement between businesses and not-for-profit organisations,” Ms Ellis said.

The discussion paper also examines some of the challenges facing community based organisations and their volunteers, as they seek to comply with increasingly complex administrative and legislative requirements.

“The Committee is aware of the potential drain on limited resources associated with legal and regulatory compliance – resources that might otherwise be used for delivery of services.

To alleviate the burden of compliance, the Committee advocates for the simplification and standardisation of requirements where possible,” Ms Ellis said.

Copies of the paper can be obtained from the Committee’s webpage or by contacting the Committee Secretariat on (02) 6277 4566.

Around 2.5 million Australians aged 15 years and over, care for someone at home, because of a disability or old age, according to a new report released by the Australian Bureau of Stastics.