Insights From Young Volunteers

Volunteering Australia hosted a conversation with five young leaders about volunteering. They learned that the following tips are most important for engaging young volunteers.

Make the pathway clear

Young people may want to volunteer but not know where to begin. Visible opportunities, relatable language and outreach through schools, universities and youth-relevant channels can help them take that first step.

Offer flexibility and support

Study, work, transport and wellbeing all shape how young people can participate. Flexible roles and welcoming people who are willing to teach can make the difference between exclusion and belonging.

Listen to young people

Young volunteers bring skills, lived experience and fresh perspectives. Meaningful inclusion means involving them in decisions and creating opportunities with them, not simply for them.

Young volunteers need welcome, trust and support

Belonging develops when organisations are warm, willing to teach and open to young people’s ideas. Intergenerational teams are strongest when experience is shared and learning goes both ways.

Design opportunities with young people

Organisations and decision-makers should consult young volunteers directly rather than making assumptions about what they need. Their lived experience and perspectives can improve programs, policies and the systems around volunteering.

You can explore the experiences of the five young leaders on the Volunteering Australia website.

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