Volunteers across NSW dedicate 1.3 billion hours to their communities in a variety of roles. Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
Is this your year to volunteer?
If you’ve ever considered a volunteering role, this is your chance to find out everything you need to know.
It’s National Volunteer Week from 18 to 24 May, with the theme Your Year to Volunteer and in the Illawarra there’ll be expos at Shellharbour and Kiama offering information about a wide variety of volunteer roles.
The 2025 NSW State of Volunteering Report reveals that volunteers across the state give 1.3 billion hours of their time to their communities each year, contributing more than $205.3 billion to the NSW economy.
Kiama’s annual Volunteer Expo will be held at the Kiama Farmers Market in Coronation Park on 20 May from 2 to 4 pm.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said many local volunteer groups played a vital role in the community.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our community every day, from service groups and environmental organisations, to emergency services and first aid providers, sporting clubs and many more,” he said.
“It can be challenging for local not-for-profit organisations to recruit new volunteers and that’s where this expo provides an extremely valuable opportunity to connect potential volunteers and community groups.”
The Shellharbour Volunteer Expo will be held on Saturday 23 May from noon to 3 pm at the Shellharbour Civic Centre.
The expo will bring together a range of local community organisations, clubs and groups, all keen to connect with people interested in volunteering.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the expo was a celebration of community spirit and connection.
“The Volunteer Expo is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to discover the many ways they can get involved,” Cr Homer said.
“Whether you have a few hours to spare or are looking for a long-term commitment, there is a volunteering opportunity to suit everyone; and the benefits go both ways.”
Cr Homer said the expo was ideal for students looking to build skills, professionals keen to share their expertise, parents seeking family-friendly volunteering options and retirees keen to stay active and connected within the community.
Meanwhile, if you know someone who is an outstanding volunteer, you have until Friday 29 May to nominate them for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The awards are in their 20th year and are run by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise the outstanding work of volunteers in every region across NSW.
Nominations for the awards can be made across seven categories and the Illawarra Regional award recipients are invited to the State Gala Ceremony at the end of the year to represent the region and to be present for the announcement of the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year.
The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said volunteers in NSW did so much good for so many people each year.
“Now, more than ever, we need to shine a light on the positive impact of volunteering, particularly in areas like the Illawarra. That’s what these awards are all about,” she said.
Last year’s Illawarra Volunteer of the Year was Gloria Rohov, who was recognised for bringing hope to the region’s needy, putting food on the table for those experiencing hardship and arranging essential bill relief.
The Thirroul resident has dedicated 12 years of her life to helping the Illawarra’s most vulnerable residents and said it “doesn’t feel like work” in helping bring hope to those in need at Anglicare Wollongong.
Despite the challenging circumstances her clients face, Gloria said she found deep satisfaction in her volunteer work due to its ability to make a difference in someone’s life.
“It’s a pleasure to be there because you’re part of the team,” she said when receiving her award.
“It doesn’t feel like work – it’s kind of a day out for me. It’s nice to think you’re doing something to help other people.”
Click here to nominate a volunteer.
