The Social And Economic Sustainability Of WA’s Rural Volunteer Workforce

Understanding Rural Volunteering in Western Australia

This report explores the vital role volunteers play in keeping rural communities in Western Australia (WA) thriving. It looks at the social and economic benefits volunteers bring, with a particular focus on women and parents of young children who give their time freely.

Challenges Faced by Rural Volunteers

The report acknowledges the challenges volunteers face, such as managing their workload, balancing commitments, and avoiding burnout, especially in crucial roles. It highlights the importance of everyone in the community sharing responsibility and planning for the future to keep volunteers engaged.

Why Rural Volunteering Matters

The report underlines how essential volunteers are for the very survival and character of rural communities. From running essential services to supporting sports and education, volunteers are the backbone of many rural areas. However, the report also identifies difficulties, including increased regulations, funding issues, and attracting younger volunteers.

Recommendations for a Sustainable Future

To ensure rural volunteering in WA continues to flourish, the report suggests changes to policy, improved strategic planning, and further research into volunteer demographics and the challenges they face. It also calls for better data collection on volunteer participation and increased support for volunteer organisations.

Summary

This research emphasises the need for ongoing efforts to guarantee the long-term health of rural volunteering in WA. By recognising its importance to the social and economic well-being of rural communities, we can ensure these communities continue to thrive.

Benefits for Volunteer Organisations and Volunteer Management Practitioners

• Understand the motivations and challenges of rural volunteers, particularly women and parents.

• Gain insights into strategies for reducing volunteer burnout and increasing community responsibility.

• Learn about the importance of volunteer participation for the survival of rural communities.

• Discover recommendations for policy changes, improved data collection and increased support for volunteer organisations.

AUTHORSKirsten Holmes, Amanda Davies, Leonie A. Lockstone-Binney

PUBLISHEDFebruary 2019

PUBLISHERBankwest Curtin Economics Centre

ISBN978-1-925083-91-0

NUMBER OF PAGES62

EDITION22/19