News

This week, 20 – 26 May, is National Volunteers Week, and it is a good time to reflect on just how valuable volunteers are.

This year, the theme is “Making a World of Difference”.

Volunteering extends across all areas of Australian society, from the arts, education, emergency services, sports and environment to health, community welfare, aged care and disability services.

Australian volunteers contribute an estimated $290 billion to the national economy annually, yielding a 450% return for every dollar invested.

Volunteering plays a crucial role in the development of social cohesion and social connection – both of which help alleviate loneliness.

National Volunteer Week always falls at the same time as National Palliative Care Week.

Palliative Care volunteers are special in as much as they are in a privileged space, connecting with patients and carers at a uniquely vulnerable point in their lives, bringing with them their compassion and care.

To all the palliative care volunteers, we salute you. Thank you for all your hard work.