- Grants totalling $70,000 to support International Volunteer Day 2026
- A total of 73 organisations and local governments funded to host volunteer recognition events
- International Volunteer Day is celebrated on 5 December
- Cook Labor Government investing in a more inclusive community
Thousands of Western Australians who generously give their time, skills, and expertise to support others will be celebrated this International Volunteer Day, with the Cook Labor Government supporting volunteer appreciation events across the State.
The Cook Labor Government has awarded $68,382 in grant funding to support 72 volunteer-involving organisations and local governments to host events and activities that honour the thousands of volunteers who help build stronger, more connected, and resilient communities.
Held on 5 December, International Volunteer Day shines a spotlight on the invaluable role volunteers play across Western Australia.
From supporting emergency services and veterans to strengthening food security, preserving culture, and helping vulnerable people, volunteers are at the heart of communities throughout the State.
This year’s funded events showcase the diversity of volunteering across WA and the many ways volunteers help foster inclusion, enhance wellbeing, and strengthen community resilience.
Some of the events and activities funded include:
- Technology for Ageing and Disability WA will host a morning tea to thank volunteers and recognise eight people with more than 20 years of service;
- Living Proud Inc will host the IVD Queer Joy Sundowner, celebrating the contribution of LGBTIQA+SB volunteers to strengthening communities;
- Country Women’s Association will host an event recognising local emergency service workers and CWA volunteers;
- Air Force Association WA will celebrate volunteers who support veterans and the Aviation Heritage Museum;
- Bunbury Regional Theatre will host an early Christmas celebration to thank volunteers who foster community connection, inclusion, and engagement;
- Polish Dance Group Kukuleczka will host a festive event recognising volunteers who contribute to WA’s vibrant cultural community;
- Thommo’s Community Garden will hold a ‘Growing Together’ celebration recognising volunteers who support Foodbank, food security, and community wellbeing;
- Hyden Community Resource Centre will host a mid-harvest volunteer appreciation breakfast;
- LJM Memorial Hospice will host an event recognising volunteers who assist people receiving end-of-life care; and
- twenty-five local governments and Community Resource Centres will host a range of events celebrating volunteers in their local communities.
The activities take place in the first week of December 2026.
To see the full list of recipients, please visit www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/thank-volunteer-day
As stated by Volunteering Minister Hannah Beazley:
“Volunteers are the backbone of communities across Western Australia, giving their time, skills, and compassion to support others and helping build stronger, more connected, and inclusive communities.
“From supporting emergency services and veterans to assisting older people, preserving culture, and strengthening community connections, volunteers play an important role in ensuring people feel supported, included, and connected to their communities.
“International Volunteer Day is an opportunity to thank the thousands of Western Australians who give so much to others and recognise the vital role they play in building communities where everyone can participate, contribute, and belong.
“These grants will help organisations and local governments celebrate the volunteers who make such a difference across our State and support the Cook Labor Government’s vision of strong, inclusive and resilient communities.”
