Nominations are now open for the 2021 Volunteering Awards, which celebrate the extraordinary efforts of Victoria’s hard-working volunteers.

The awards are an opportunity to recognise the incredible support volunteers have given to others during a difficult year – whether it’s delivering essential food relief and medical supplies or helping seniors video call loved ones, volunteers are the backbone of our community and we say thank you.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas called on Werribee residents to nominate volunteers who have made a difference over the past year.

The efforts of volunteers, leaders and organisations will be recognised across eight awards categories, including for leadership, service, impact and teamwork.

A highlight is the Premier’s Volunteer of the Year, who is recognised with the Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Award. The winner will receive a $10,000 prize to donate to a not-for-profit organisation of their choice.

This year Volunteering Victoria will combine its awards with the Victorian Government’s Premier’s Volunteer Champions Awards.

Nominations for the 2021 Volunteering Awards will close on January 14, 2022. Finalists will be announced on 23 February 2022 and winners will be acknowledged at an official ceremony in March 2022.

For more information or to nominate someone, visit volunteeringvictoria.org.au/events/volunteering-awards-2021.

Following consultation with volunteers and community organisations, the Government is currently developing a Victorian Volunteer Strategy which will underpin efforts to ensure volunteers are supported and make volunteering more accessible.

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers here in the Werribee District– you do such an important job supporting the community.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers James Merlino

“If you know a volunteer doing extraordinary work, I encourage you to nominate them so we can celebrate their important achievements.”

Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Carers and Volunteers Anthony Carbines

“Victoria’s volunteers have made a huge impact in our community during the pandemic, selflessly helping others in our community.”