Nominations open for new emergency volunteer award

THE New South Wales Government has announced the inaugural NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award.

The award, which shines a light on courageous emergency volunteers, is the first of its kind in the state and is designed to recognise all types of volunteers who have made an exceptional contribution to the community in crisis.

Delivered as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, run by the Centre for Volunteering, the award is open to emergency services volunteers, community groups, and individuals for emergency prevention, preparation, response, or recovery efforts.

Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate welcomed the additional support of NSW emergency services, highlighting the importance of the awards.

“Volunteers are always there to provide care, support, and lifesaving response during floods, storms, and fires across our beaches and waterways,” Rygate said.

“This is a wonderful initiative of the NSW Government, and we look forward to meeting many of the inspiring emergency volunteers at our regional ceremonies later in the year.”

The initiative follows the announcement earlier this year of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation, which ensures that the contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023 were recognised.

Minister with responsibility for volunteering Jodie Harrison said volunteers represented the beating heart of communities.

“Volunteers come from all walks of life and across NSW,” Harrison said.

“Volunteers deserve to know they are valued, and that’s why this award matters.

“We know volunteers don’t work hard for accolades; they do it because they are committed to building better communities and helping those in need,” she said.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the award improved the recognition of volunteers from organisations, informal volunteers, and community members.

“It’s just one way to let your local emergency volunteers know their dedication and contribution don’t go unnoticed,” Dib said.

“Our dedicated volunteers across NSW provide emergency support for people when they’re most in need.

“They’re often first on the scene, protecting and caring for us when we need it most.

“Almost everyone knows someone who gives their time as an emergency volunteer.”

Nominations close at 5 pm on Friday, May 23.

For information and to nominate a volunteer, visit volunteering.com.au/awards/about-the-awards