Volunteers are the heart of our communities. They are the people who give their time, skills, and energy to support others, often without recognition or reward. From helping in schools and aged care facilities to supporting emergency services, sporting clubs, and local events, volunteers make the difference between what is possible and what would otherwise not happen at all.

Yet across Australia, the number of volunteers has not returned to pre-COVID levels. This has had a significant impact, particularly in vital areas such as the education sector, aged care, and emergency services. Fewer volunteers mean fewer hands to help in classrooms, less support for our older community members, and greater pressure on frontline services that already carry heavy responsibilities.

The reality is that every bit of help counts. Volunteering doesn’t always mean giving up hours each week, it can be as simple as lending a hand at a local event, assisting a neighbour, mentoring young people, or sharing a particular skill. These small acts, when combined, create a powerful network of support that strengthens our community.

Without volunteers, so much of what we take for granted would not exist. They help create opportunities, provide comfort, and build connections that enrich lives every day. That’s why it’s so important for each of us to do what we can, however small, to ensure this tradition of giving back continues.

By stepping forward, even in small ways, we can help fill the gaps left since the pandemic and ensure our communities remain strong, supportive, and resilient for the future.