Volunteers are essential to the delivery of public health services across NSW. The tireless effort of individuals who dedicate their time and experience leads directly to better outcomes for patients, staff and visitors.
Volunteers often work behind the scenes or alongside health professionals and other healthcare staff in clinical and administrative areas of NSW Health facilities and services, including hospitals. Volunteers are often part of hospital auxiliaries, not-for-profit organisations or other philanthropic groups. They also undertake fundraising efforts to support hospitals in their local communities.
NSW Health provides care all across the state, from primary care posts in the remote outback to metropolitan tertiary health centres. Local Health Districts, Specialty Health Networks and Pillars engage, support and manage local volunteer services and provide information about how eligible people can volunteer.
The NSW Health Framework for Engaging, Supporting and Managing Volunteers guides how NSW Health works with volunteers. NSW Health aims to optimise the experience of volunteers across the NSW Health system and maintain our longstanding relationship with our volunteers.
NSW Health celebrates its volunteers. The NSW Health Volunteers' Appreciation Day has been celebrated annually by our health services since the United Nations Assembly established the International Year of Volunteers in 2001. In addition, the NSW Health Volunteer of the Year Award is awarded annually at the NSW Health Innovation Awards, which showcase excellent work throughout the NSW health system.
If you would like to learn more, many resources are available. For further information about volunteering with specific organisations, please contact the organisation, network or Local Health District directly.