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Volunteers are the backbone of the sport and recreation industry with some 2.3 million people contributing more than 180 million hours to running our clubs and competitions (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

Volunteers give up their time for many reasons: some do it to meet new people, learn new skills, add to their CV, help other people, make good use of their spare time, or use their skills and experience in a positive way. 

It’s important for sport and recreation organisations to consider how some of their most important resources — your volunteers, are managed. 

Clubs and associations should support and recognise volunteers so they feel valued and are able to fulfil the position they have been given.

In order for us to adapt to our ever-changing environments and meet the needs and expectations of the modern volunteer, organisations should consider planning and developing volunteer management programs that are innovative and flexible.

For a comprehensive overview of Volunteer Management for clubs, see our Volunteer Management Guide. 

In addition, here are some useful volunteer-focused links, resources and templates for you to use:

• Volunteer management
• Appointing a Volunteer Coordinator
• Develop a basic Volunteer Management Plan for your club
• Develop clear and concise position descriptions for volunteer roles.
• It is important to ensure all volunteers comply with child safeguarding and regulatory requirements.
  We encourage clubs to complete the Child Safe Self-Assessment Tool.

• Attraction and retention opportunities
• Determine a plan to recruit your volunteers
• Create an induction pack for new volunteers with useful information and contacts.
• Retain volunteers by providing access to training and professional development
• Regularly survey your volunteers to gauge satisfaction levels and improve your support.
• It is important to develop and promote a club culture which values and appreciates volunteer efforts.

• Volunteer recognition
• Acknowledge volunteer achievements during National Volunteer Week (18 to 24 May 2020)
• Nominate your valued volunteers for service awards (e.g. WAFL, WACA, SWA)
• Apply some of the following 101 ways to recognise your volunteers within your club.

• Useful links
• Every Club Hub
• Volunteering WA
• Our Community
• GoVolunteer — search for volunteer positions
• Good Sports — Volunteer Toolkit
• Volunteering Australia – National Standards for Volunteer Involvement
• Sports Community – Attracting Retaining & Empowering Volunteers
• Clearinghouse for Sport – Volunteer research, reports and case studies.