National Youth Volunteer Week celebrates the energy, ideas and impact of young volunteers across Australia.
In 2026, National Youth Volunteer Week will run from 10–16 August.
National Youth Volunteer Week is an opportunity to acknowledge the impact that young people make through volunteering.
The campaign spotlights and celebrates youth-led volunteering efforts, highlighting the personal and collective impact of service, and connecting young people with opportunities to lead, grow, and give back.
We invite all education providers, volunteer organisations and students across the country to participate in National Youth Volunteer Week.
2026 theme
The theme for National Youth Volunteer Week 2026 is ‘Your Year To Lead’.
This year’s theme celebrates the leadership, connections and sense of belonging that volunteering creates.
Young people are not only the volunteers of tomorrow. They are leading, contributing and creating positive change today. Whether they’re mentoring classmates, running peer support groups, helping out at community events, or tackling big social issues – young people are showing up and shaping a brighter future.
Get involved, spread the word, and use the hashtags #NYVW2026 and #YourYearToLead to share your stories of impact.
Celebrating the next generation of volunteers
Young volunteers are leading the way in Victoria.
Whether it’s contributing to causes they care about, gaining industry experience, or responding to unmet needs in their community, young people are driving positive change in ways that matter to them.
69
of young people under 25
are involved in some form of volunteering in Victoria.
271
hours contributed per year
The highest average across all age groups.
29
expect to increase their volunteering
The highest rate across all age groups.
Get involved
Say thank you
Recognise the contribution of young volunteers or leaders with an award, certificate, social media post, or a simple thank you.
Most importantly, let them know how they have contributed to your organisation’s purpose and impact.
Host an event
Organise a morning tea, networking event, volunteering activity or celebration to recognise young volunteers and connect your community.
You could even consider inviting local schools for a once-off volunteering activity or tour of your facilities.
Tailor opportunities for young people
Promote volunteer roles that are designed with young people in mind. Use welcoming, inclusive language that focuses on skills, growth, flexibility and the impact they’ll make.
Even better, co-design opportunities with young people directly to help ensure roles meet their needs and interests.
Include young people in decision-making
Ask young people for their ideas. Include them in planning meetings, campaign activities or organisational conversations.
Listening and showing genuine interest in their views is one of the most powerful ways to support youth leadership.
Share your story
Add your story to the national volunteering map! Whether you’ve volunteered at an event, supported your local community, or dedicated your time to a cause you’re passionate about, your story could inspire others to get involved.
Resources
National Youth Volunteer Week resources are produced by Volunteering Australia, including digital resources and key messaging for you to share in the lead up to and during the week.
Resources will include logos, certificates, invitations, posters, social media images, and email and web banners.
