Communities across the Illawarra are being encouraged to celebrate and acknowledge their local volunteers by submitting nominations for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards. As one of the country’s largest celebrations of volunteering, the awards shine a spotlight on those who give their time and energy to support their communities.

Organised annually by The Centre for Volunteering, the awards honour outstanding volunteers in every region across New South Wales. Illawarra residents can nominate volunteers across seven distinct categories, with regional recipients recognised at one of 25 ceremonies throughout the year. Winners from the Illawarra region will then progress to the State Gala Ceremony, where the NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced by the Hon. Jodie Harrison, NSW Minister with Responsibility for Volunteering.

The impact of volunteers in NSW is immense. According to the latest report on volunteering in the state, over 4.3 million people contribute their time each year, generating an estimated $178 billion in social and economic benefits. Recognition through awards like these plays a key role in both retaining and attracting volunteers to continue their valuable work.

Gemma Rygate, CEO of The Centre for Volunteering, urged Illawarra residents to take this opportunity to acknowledge those making a difference in their communities.

“Every day, volunteers are out there running vital services and events,” Ms Rygate said. “Local communities across the Illawarra would not be the same without them.

“Nominating a volunteer is a meaningful way to show appreciation and ensure their hard work does not go unnoticed.”

The 2024 awards saw more than 139,000 volunteers from over 500 community-based organisations recognised, making it one of the largest volunteer recognition programs in Australia.

New for 2025 is the Emergency Volunteer of the Year Award, designed to honour individuals or groups who assist communities in preparing for, responding to, or recovering from emergencies and disasters.

The 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are proudly supported by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice as the Principal Partner, alongside regional sponsor Beyond Bank, and supporters Mint Awards and SIXT.

Minister Jodie Harrison highlighted the importance of volunteers in strengthening communities and urged locals to submit nominations.

“They are incredibly passionate about what they do and selflessly devote their time, skills, and knowledge to help others,” she said. “Our volunteers deserve recognition, and these awards are a fantastic way to show appreciation for their efforts.”

Nominations are open until Friday, 23 May 2025. To nominate a volunteer or find out more, visit https://www.volunteering.com.au/awards/about-the-awards/.

For media enquiries, contact: [email protected]. A media kit containing regional information about last year’s winners is available online.

About The Centre for Volunteering The Centre for Volunteering is the peak body in NSW that promotes and supports volunteering and community participation. With over 50 years of history, the organisation provides leadership on volunteering issues and connects individuals with opportunities to give back. Through advocacy, volunteer referral services, training, resource development, and education, The Centre helps to enrich communities across the state.

Volunteering in NSW – Key Facts

• Over 4.3 million people volunteer in NSW each year, contributing $178 billion in social and economic benefits.
• 2.1 million women volunteer in NSW, generating around $87 billion in economic growth.
• 1.3 million volunteers in rural and regional areas contribute $52.8 billion to the NSW economy.
• Youth volunteers are the most active group, contributing $24.8 billion in economic value, with around 70% of young people volunteering.
• Sports volunteers generate $40 billion for the NSW economy, assisting local clubs and sporting organisations.
• Approximately 812,000 people aged 65 and over volunteer in NSW, contributing $28.7 billion in economic value.

Celebrate the selfless dedication of Illawarra’s volunteers—nominate today!