Federal Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten, said the Awards recognise the contribution of over 6 million Australians who volunteer their time in communities across the country.
“At times it is easy to forget just how much our economy and society relies on the generosity of its people.”
“Here in Maribyrnong it is the contribution of volunteers that are the backbone of our community,” Mr Shorten said.
“Whether it be visiting our older citizens, helping in hospitals or schools, looking after animals, coaching or managing a junior sports team, or joining organisations like the SES, our volunteers give their spare time and their expertise at no cost, wishing only to make a contribution to the society in which they live.
“This is an opportunity to give them some recognition for all those hours of work they have donated to the community,” Mr Shorten said.
Minister for Ageing and Social Inclusion Mark Butler said the Awards recognise the contribution of over 6 million Australians who volunteer in communities across the country, including for the first time a seniors category, as recommended by the Advisory Panel on the Economic Potential of Senior Australians.
“I’m pleased to see the Awards will now include a Senior Volunteer category to specifically acknowledge the invaluable contribution older Australians make to our community.”
Mr Shorten said 2012 National Volunteer Awards will call on Australians to nominate exceptional volunteers in their community who donate their time to assist not-for-profit organisations.
Nominations will be accepted throughout September and October with an award ceremony to be held later in the year to celebrate the achievements of local volunteering heroes.
Volunteer award categories include:
- MP’s Volunteer of the Year
- Junior Volunteer Award (17 and under)
- Youth Volunteer Award (18-25)
- Senior Volunteer Award (65 and over)
- Business Volunteer Award
- Education Award
- Emergency Management Volunteer Award
- Environment Award
- Innovation in Volunteering Award (organisation or individual)
- 10. Long–term Commitment to Community Service Award.
For information on application procedures and closing dates, contact Mr Shorten’s office or visit www.notforprofit.gov.au/volunteering
MEDIA CONTACT: (Minister Butler’s office) Brooke Wylie 0408 833 967
(Mr Shorten’s office) Jayne Edwards / Kieran Barns-Jenkins 9326 1300
