Nominations open for the 2026 Hunter Volunteer of the Year awards

IT’S time for people across the Hunter to nominate family, friends or work mates for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, to help celebrate the enormous positive impact of volunteers across the state.

The awards are in their 20th year and are run by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise the outstanding work of volunteers in every region across NSW.

Nominations for the awards can be made across seven separate categories.

The 2025 NSW State of Volunteering Report revealed that volunteers across the state give 1.3 billion hours of their time to their communities each year, contributing $205.3 billion to the NSW economy.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards celebrate this amazing contribution.

“Volunteers in NSW do so much good for so many people every year,” Ms Rygate said.

“Now, more than ever, we need to shine a light on the positive impact of volunteering, particularly in areas like the Hunter.

“That’s what these awards are all about.”

Last year’s Hunter Volunteer of the Year was Soul Hub Newcastle guest support worker David Dorhauer, who was recognised for his service to people in need across the city.

Minister with Responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison MP, said volunteers are a powerful force for change in our communities.

“Our state would not be the thriving place it is, without the millions of volunteers giving their time and sharing their knowledge and skills every day.

“They don’t do it for recognition or awards, but because they want to help others.

“The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are a great way to celebrate their contributions and show that they are appreciated.

“I urge people to nominate someone you know – the unsung heroes in our communities – for these awards.” Nominations are open until Friday 29 May 2026 at this link.