News

Volunteering is now included in the categories assessed by the federal government’s updated national wellbeing framework.

Introduced last year by Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, the Measuring What Matters framework is Australia’s first national wellbeing framework that track the progress towards a more healthy, secure, sustainable, cohesive and prosperous Australia.

Canberra recently announced that the framework will be updated to include volunteering. Additionally, the Australian Bureau of Statistics will now manage the annual General Social Survey on Australian wellbeing.

Volunteering Australia CEO Mark Pearce welcomed the inclusion of volunteering as a key indicator of the state of the nation:

“The General Social Survey is a crucial source of official data on volunteering in Australia, and participation in volunteering, both formal and informal, is a key indicator of the wellbeing of our communities.”

“We are delighted that the federal government have recognised the importance of volunteering to social cohesion,” said Mr Pearce.

Kate Bowman, Manager of the Volunteer Services Support Program run by PCNSW,  also welcomed the inclusion:

“Anyone who works with volunteers can tell you how much they contribute to the well-being of their communities but less often do people think about how much benefit the volunteers themselves receive.

“Volunteering can give you a sense of achievement and purpose, help you feel part of a community, improve your self-esteem and confidence, all while learning new skills. It’s great way to meet new people and build relationships which can help you feel more connected and valued.

“I welcome the collection of data and the recognition of the importance of volunteering to our national well-being.”, said Kate.

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