Harry Jenkins MP, Federal Member for Scullin has today announced that nominations for the 2011 National Volunteer Awards are now open, encouraging local residents to nominate someone who they feel are making a valuable contribution to the local community.
"Volunteers are the backbone of our local community, giving up their time, energy and expertise to support our community but their work is often gone unrecognised," Mr Jenkins said.
"These awards provide a great opportunity to recognise and celebrate the remarkable work of the many volunteers who play such an invaluable role at our local schools and sporting clubs, scouts and senior citizens groups and neighbourhood houses.
Nominations are open until 5:00pm on Monday, 14 November and will be accepted in the following categories;
- Volunteer Award (17 years and under)
- Young Volunteer Award (18-25 years)
- Education Award
- Environment Award
- Long-term Commitment to Community Service Award
- Business Volunteer Award
- Innovation in Volunteering Award (for an organisation or individual)
- Emergency Management Award
"Volunteering is an essential part of a socially inclusive society in which all people can feel valued and have opportunities to participate in their community," Mr Jenkins said.
This year marks the 10 anniversary of International Year of Volunteers (IYV+10) and to mark the occasion, a commemorative stamp and coin have been launched.
The new collectable 20 cent coin reminds all Australians of the significant role that volunteers play in local communities.
"This is a wonderful gesture of recognition by Australia Post of the selfless efforts of volunteers," Mr Jenkins said.
Nomination forms for the 2011 National Volunteer Awards can be found by visiting