Celebrating the contribution of volunteers in Australia

Have you ever thought about volunteering? Over six million Australians volunteer every year and in celebration of National Volunteer Week earlier this month, we asked some of our staff to share their volunteering experiences. As we are privileged to employ a workforce with diverse experiences and backgrounds, we found some incredible people.

Please take a moment to listen to their stories.

Denise Elliot, Forensic Radiographer

There is so much more to volunteering than simply giving your time and skills to help others. For Denise, volunteering is about giving a voice to people who can’t speak for themselves. Denise has volunteered as a forensic radiographer for 13 years and is also working at a deeper level to affect best practice and influence policy change here in Australia.

Pamela Cheok, Starlight Express Room

Did you know that volunteering is highly associated with greater health and happiness? Just ask Pam, who volunteers in the Starlight Express Room — a  haven for sick kids and their families seeking a break from medical treatments and procedures. In this safe space, kids can play, create, or just clown around and have fun.

Sylvia Cullen, Community Visitor Scheme and Guide Runner

Volunteering is a great way to contribute to the community and meet new people. Through the Community Visitors Scheme (CVS), Sylvia provides friendship, support, and companionship to the elderly.

Recently, Sylvia has taken on a new challenge with guide running for the visually impaired. When you become the eyes for another person, communication is vital, and over time it becomes a run with a friend.

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Whether you’re interested in helping the community or working at a deeper level to change policies, you can find opportunities and ways to get involved in volunteering. Our featured stories aim to encourage you to consider your local volunteering opportunities – even just a few hours can make a huge difference, offer new challenges, and help you make new friends.

A special thank you to Denise, Pamela, and Sylvia for sharing their inspiring stories.