International Volunteer Day
Brief ministerial statement
Ms Hannah Beazley (Victoria Park—Minister for Volunteering) (9:23 am): I am pleased to inform the house that tomorrow, Friday 5 December, we will celebrate International Volunteer Day. The United Nations designates this day to recognise the contributions of volunteers around the world. For Western Australia, it is an important opportunity to extend our appreciation to our state's dedicated volunteers. For me, this day is a timely reminder that volunteering is not just something extra that people do. It is what underpins Western Australia's community spirit, making WA the strong, inclusive and caring place we are all so proud to call home. This year's theme, "Every contribution matters", emphasises the power of collective action and acknowledges that every act of volunteering contributes to a stronger, more connected and inclusive community.
This year's International Volunteer Day is particularly special as it is also the official launch of 2026 as the International Year for Volunteers for Sustainable Development. This is a global initiative that highlights the crucial role of volunteers in advancing sustainability.
The Cook Labor government acknowledges and appreciates the contribution of volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations. This is demonstrated through initiatives such as the ongoing WA Volunteer Service Awards. Since the awards commenced in 2012, over 4,000 individuals have been recognised for their incredible service to Western Australian communities. I am very pleased to inform the house that this year 74 successful recipients shared $70,000 of grant funding as part of the International Volunteer Day Grants Program. This funding supports organisations to deliver a range of volunteer-recognition activities across regional and metropolitan Western Australia. Events range from an Alice in Wonderland–themed morning tea at the Exmouth toy library, to a barbecue and treasure hunt hosted by Girl Guides Western Australia in Belmont, an animal-themed quiz night hosted by Kanyana Wildlife in Lesmurdie and a free, live music sundowner hosted by Investing in Our Youth in the South West. This government is ensuring the selfless commitment of our volunteers is recognised and celebrated. The variety of events reflects the rich diversity of Western Australia's volunteering sector and shows just how many activities rely on volunteers in every one of our communities.
I use this opportunity to acknowledge the incredible efforts of Tina Williams, CEO of Volunteering WA, and her team for their tireless efforts to promote Western Australia's volunteering culture. I would like to extend my deepest and sincerest thanks to our state's volunteers. The Cook government remains committed to supporting and encouraging volunteering, and we recognise that Western Australia is more connected, more inclusive and safer because of our volunteers.
