MEDIA RELEASE: A REMINDER TO KEEP VOLUNTEERS SAFE


Date: 19/05/26

Five million people volunteer across Australia each year and organisations are being reminded this National Volunteer Week (18-24 May) that volunteers are entitled to the same safety protections as paid workers - not just as best practice, but under Australian law.

The Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) said volunteers are the backbone of many Australian organisations and protecting their physical and psychological safety is a priority

Latest data reveals 34 per cent of Australian volunteers contribute between 21 to 99 hours a year. Almost half have been volunteering for more than a decade.

AIHS CEO Julia Whitford said National Volunteer Week is an important celebration of the critical role volunteers have in society and a reminder of the responsibility organisations have in keeping them safe.

“From sporting clubs and community groups to emergency services and Boards, volunteers are contributing enormous time and effort to keep communities running,” Ms Whitford said.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the more than 100 AIHS volunteers across the country who support our committees, governance and events. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them.”

“Volunteers are often the people quietly holding organisations together and that contribution deserves to be matched with proper care and protection.”

This year’s theme for National Volunteer Week is “Your Year to Volunteer”.

Ms Whitford said volunteers needed to know when they give their time they are valued and protected.

“A strong safety culture doesn’t just protect volunteers it helps sustain the incredible service they provide to the community,” she said.

AIHS is calling on organisations to ensure the safety of volunteers through training, supervision, safety processes, equipment and mental health support.

Safe Work Australia has a range of resources to assist volunteer organisations here.

ENDS

Media Enquiries:
AIHS Contact: Rebecca Turnbull
Tel: (03) 8336 1995
Email: [email protected]

About the AIHS: With a 77-year history, the Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) is the peak body representing workplace health and safety professionals, with a vision for safe and healthy people in productive workplaces and communities. The AIHS works with industry, government, regulators, unions, and experts to improve regulation, policy, safety standards and training.