Victorians are being encouraged to nominate volunteers and community groups making a difference as nominations open for the 2026 Victorian Volunteering Awards.
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence called on residents to put forward individuals and organisations whose work strengthens communities across the state.
“Victoria’s volunteers are the quiet achievers behind so much of what makes our communities strong – these awards are our chance to shine a light on them,” Spence said.
The annual awards recognise contributions across eight categories, including Young Volunteer Award, Volunteer Commitment Award, Volunteer Leadership Award, Volunteer Impact Award, Inclusive Volunteering Award, Volunteering Innovation Awards, Volunteering Partnerships Award and Grassroots Volunteering Award.
The Volunteer of the Year will be selected from the individual category winners and will receive the Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Award, along with a $10,000 donation to a not-for-profit organisation of their choice.
Spence said volunteers contribute in many different ways across the state.
“Whether it’s their time, skills or lived experience, every volunteer brings something unique,” she said.
“The Allan Labor Government is proud to celebrate the people who show up for others.”
Last year’s awards received 447 nominations. Glenys Watts was named Volunteer of the Year for her work supporting Indigenous health initiatives, family violence prevention and culturally safe services.
Watts has worked for more than three decades to support community wellbeing, including helping establish the Wirram Warrain Gathering Place and contributing to programs with Ngwala Willumbong.
Volunteering Victoria Chief Executive Geoff Sharp said nominations play an important role in recognising people whose efforts often go unnoticed.
“Volunteers and the organisations they support rarely seek recognition, which is why your nomination matters. By nominating for the Victorian Volunteering Awards, you help celebrate their contributions and inspire others to follow,” Sharp said.
Nominations close on Wednesday, 27 May. More information and nomination details are available at volunteeringvictoria.org.au/awards.
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