Victorians are being urged to nominate local volunteers and community organisations for the 2026 Victorian Volunteering Awards, with the state government calling for greater recognition of those supporting communities across the state.
Ros Spence announced nominations are now open, encouraging residents to put forward individuals and groups making a difference through voluntary work.
The annual awards recognise excellence across eight categories, including the Young Volunteer Award, Volunteer Commitment Award, Volunteer Leadership Award, Volunteer Impact Award, Inclusive Volunteering Award, Volunteering Innovation Award, Volunteering Partnerships Award and Grassroots Volunteering Award.
One recipient will also be named Volunteer of the Year and awarded the Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Award, along with a $10,000 donation to a not-for-profit organisation of their choice.
Spence said volunteers played a central role in strengthening communities across Victoria.
“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,” she said.
“Whether it’s their time, skills or lived experience, every volunteer brings something unique.”
Last year’s awards received 447 nominations, with Glenys Watts named Volunteer of the Year. Watts has spent more than three decades advocating for Indigenous health, family violence prevention and culturally safe services, including her work with the Wirram Warrain Gathering Place and Ngwala Willumbong.
Volunteering Victoria chief executive Geoff Sharp said the awards were an opportunity to highlight contributions that often go unnoticed.
“Volunteers and the organisations they support rarely seek recognition, which is why your nomination matters,” he said.
“By nominating for the Victorian Volunteering Awards, you help celebrate their contributions and inspire others to follow.”
Nominations close on 27 May, with winners to be announced later this year.
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