Canberrans are being encouraged to make 2026 your year to volunteer, as National Volunteer Week shines a spotlight on the vital role volunteers play in building a stronger, more connected community.
Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services, Suzanne Orr said National Volunteer Week is a chance to recognise the vital contribution volunteers make across the ACT.
“Volunteers are at the heart of a strong, inclusive and connected Canberra, and I want to sincerely thank the thousands of Canberrans who give their time to support others and strengthen our community,” Minister Orr said.
“This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, Your Year to Volunteer, invites more Canberrans to take the step into volunteering and discover how they can make a difference in their community.”
“Volunteering is a powerful way to meet new people, learn new skills and give back, while also supporting organisations that rely on volunteers to deliver essential services,
“You don’t need special experience or large amounts of time to make a meaningful difference — there are volunteering opportunities to suit all interests, abilities and stages of life.”
The Government’s support for volunteering is guided by the ACT Volunteering Strategy 2024–2034, delivered in partnership with VolunteeringACT. The 2025 Progress Report highlights progress across key focus areas, including volunteer experience, community impact and sector sustainability.
The Progress Report shows many Canberrans are being connected to volunteering through major ACT events - such as the National Multicultural Festival, Floriade, Enlighten and Reconciliation Day - giving thousands of hours of time to their community.
The ACT Government has also supported expanded training and capacity building across the sector, with VolunteeringACT delivering 51 training sessions to volunteers and volunteer managers in 2025, a significant increase from previous years.
VolunteeringACT continues to play a vital role in connecting people with opportunities through initiatives such as the annual Volunteering Expo and its online platform, helping Canberrans find roles that match their skills and interests.
“VolunteeringACT is a great place to start if you’re unsure where to volunteer or want help finding the right fit,” Minister Orr said.
“Whether you can give an hour a week or commit to a longer-term role, there are opportunities across hundreds of community organisations to suit all ages, backgrounds and experience levels.”
Quote Attributable to VolunteeringACT CEO Jean Giese:
“This week is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate every volunteer’s contribution towards a more inclusive Canberra.
“Volunteering is more than just giving back: it is central to wellbeing, connection and personal and professional growth. There are an incredible 279,000 volunteers in our city giving their time, skills and passion, across wonderful organisations in the arts, sports, schools, health, events, the environment, emergency services, and the community sector. Put simply: without volunteers, Canberra would grind to a halt.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the ACT Government in delivering the ACT Volunteering Strategy - a critical roadmap to support the evolution of volunteering for our local volunteers and the organisations who involve them and utilise their contributions.”
Volunteer opportunities in the ACT can be found at www.volunteeringact.org.au
For more information on the ACT Volunteering Strategy 2024-2034, visit https://www.act.gov.au/open/act-volunteering-strategy
