A new strategy aimed at recruiting more volunteers across Victoria, including in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, has been announced by the state government.
An investment of $1.3 million was invested by the state government, who said a 50 percent decline in volunteer participation had occurred in 2020, due to the pandemic.
Prior to that, about 2.3 million (42.1 per cent) of Victorians volunteered their time with organisations in their communities.
The strategy will provide a roadmap to respond to the challenges brought on by the pandemic including, recruiting new people and encouraging former volunteers to return, building skills and capability through training and support and recognising and celebrating the outstanding contribution volunteers make.
Disability, Ageing and Carers minister Anthony Carbines said there had never been a better time to give volunteering a go.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our community. The volunteering strategy, backed by $1.3 million investment is a great step forward in creating a structured, long-term pathway for encouraging more Victorians to volunteer,” Mr Carbines said.
Applications for grants of up to $80,000 will open in June to support local partnerships to re-engage volunteers and strengthen volunteering in local communities.
Details: volunteer.vic.gov.au/grants.
