The Andrews Labor Government has signed a statement on working with volunteer-based agencies to support volunteerism in Victoria.
The Emergency Management Volunteer Statement acknowledges the contribution of 100,000 volunteers who protect their communities before, during and after emergencies.
The statement is a step towards strengthening volunteering and integrating the diverse contribution of different volunteer agencies so they can work better together.
It supports the guiding principle in emergency management that all agencies, the Government and volunteers will work as one to keep the community safe. It is a key milestone in recognising the work of Victoria’s volunteer-based agencies. The signatories to the statement are:
- Ambulance Victoria
- Australian Red Cross
- Australian Volunteer Coast Guard
- Country Fire Authority (CFA)
- Life Saving Victoria (LSV)
- Salvation Army
- St John Ambulance
- Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES)
- Victorian Council of Churches
- Volunteer Emergency Service Association
- Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV)
The statement recognises the vital role of Victoria’s emergency management volunteers who help create safer and more resilient communities.
It is a joint commitment from government and Victoria’s emergency management agencies to engage with volunteers, through mechanisms such as the Volunteers Consultative Forum.
The statement marks National Volunteer Week which runs from Monday 9 May to Sunday 15 May. Today is also Wear Orange Wednesday where Victorians are encouraged to don orange clothing as a sign of appreciation for VICSES volunteers who keep communities safe.
To view the Emergency Management Volunteer Statement visit:
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re proud to recognise and support our volunteers who work tirelessly to help keep us safe in times of need.
During National Volunteer Week and on behalf of the Victorian community, I say to them: thank you.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett
“This statement is significant step towards strengthening the culture of volunteerism in the community.”
“Engagement with volunteer agencies is a key part of this statement and we will continue to work with these groups to ensure they are supported.”
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley
"We have a proud and passionate volunteer culture in Victoria and this statement demonstrates the importance of working together to strengthen that culture, value it and celebrate it."
Reviewed 19 August 2020