To create change, we first need to understand the full picture.
As the state peak body for volunteering, Volunteering Victoria is committed to sharing the latest volunteering trends with members and stakeholders.
This National Volunteer Week, we are proud to share Victoria’s State of Volunteering Report 2025, providing the latest insights into volunteering across the state.
This report is a testament to the enduring spirit and contribution of Victoria’s volunteers. In every suburb, town and region, volunteers give their time, skills and care to build stronger communities and advance causes that matter deeply to all of us.
Understanding who volunteers – and who doesn’t – is critical for shaping policies and practices that promote inclusive, sustainable volunteer engagement.
Volunteering is transforming. The report offers a clearer picture of how, where, and why Victorians volunteer – and what must change to support them into the future.
Key findings:
- 3.3 million Victorians volunteer in their community.
- This represents 58.9% of the Victorian population aged 15+ years.
- Collectively, Victorian volunteers contribute over 732 million hours.
- 69.4% of young Victorians (15-24 years old) volunteer; the highest rate of any age group.
”As we look ahead, we are committed to turning these insights into action. We look forward to working with our members and partners to advocate for the right support, and to provide the tools and resources needed to adapt and thrive.
Geoff SharpCEO, Volunteering Victoria
Background
Last produced in 2020, the State of Volunteering Report provides a comprehensive overview of volunteering in Victoria. Volunteering Victoria was commissioned to conduct updated research, with thanks to funding from the Victorian State Government and the ongoing support of Minister for Carers and Volunteers, the Hon. Ros Spence MP.
This research presents a comprehensive, evidence-based picture of volunteering in Victoria today.
This includes:
- trends across metro, regional, and rural communities
- the unique experiences of different demographic groups
These findings will help shape how volunteering is resourced, managed, and valued across Victoria.
Data collection
The report draws its insights from:
- A public survey (2,540 respondents, randomised database)
- A Volunteer Manager survey (326 respondents)
- Qualitative focus groups (24 held across Victoria, with 225 attendees)
Acknowledgements
Volunteering Victoria would like to acknowledge the Victorian Government for funding the 2025 State of Volunteering Report, as well as their ongoing investment in volunteering and community participation in Victoria.
We also deeply appreciate everyone who contributed to this report – every volunteer, Leader of Volunteers, and organisation that shared their experiences, and all those who supported the process: analysts, writers, designers, editors, and proofreaders.
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