News

On 5 November, organisations across Australia and around the world will celebrate International Volunteer Managers Day (IVMD), recognising the dedicated professionals who make volunteering possible, meaningful and impactful.

This year’s theme, Legacy and Leadership: Honouring the Past, Present and Future, shines a spotlight on the people who have shaped the profession of volunteer management, those leading with purpose today, and the next generation who will continue to strengthen volunteer engagement in our communities.

While volunteers are often the public face of community service, there is a skilled workforce behind the scenes ensuring volunteer programs are safe, inclusive, rewarding and effective. Volunteer managers recruit, train, support and empower volunteers, creating the conditions that allow individuals to contribute their time, skills and compassion where they are needed most.

Celebrating a Lasting Legacy

Volunteer management has evolved significantly over the years. What was once viewed primarily as a coordination role is now recognised as a specialised profession requiring expertise in leadership, governance, safeguarding, risk management, communication and community engagement.

Today’s volunteer managers continue to build on the foundations laid by those who advocated for stronger volunteer programs, better volunteer support, and greater recognition of the value volunteers bring to society. Their legacy can be seen in the thousands of organisations that depend on volunteers to deliver services, strengthen social connections and improve community wellbeing.

This International Volunteer Managers Day, we proudly recognise and thank the Palliative Care Volunteer Managers whose leadership makes a lasting difference across our sector.

Their expertise, compassion and dedication create meaningful opportunities for volunteers while ensuring they feel supported, valued and connected to a shared purpose. In the uniquely sensitive field of palliative care, volunteer managers provide guidance through challenging situations, celebrate achievements, and help volunteers build confidence and skills.

Their leadership not only strengthens volunteer engagement but also extends the reach and impact of palliative care services, helping organisations support more people and families in their communities.

The timing is particularly fitting, following last week’s Palliative Care Volunteer Managers Conference, where volunteer leaders from across the sector gathered in Sydney to learn, collaborate and celebrate the important role of volunteering in palliative care. The conference showcased the innovation, commitment and expertise that continue to shape the future of volunteer management.

Click here to read more about the conference and view the event highlights.

To learn more about International Volunteer Managers Day and how you can get involved, visit the official website: International Volunteer Managers Day.