Did you know that there are national standards in place in Australia which detail the best practice in the management of volunteers in not for profit organisations?

The standards were developed in order to meet the needs of volunteers so that they can do their best work in support of their chosen cause.

How well does your not for profit organisation meet its obligations?

An organisation that involves volunteers shall:

  • Ensure that volunteers are managed within a defined system and by capable personnel with the authority and resources to achieve the organisation’s policy goals.
  • Plan and have clearly documented volunteer recruitment, selection, and orientation policies and procedures that are consistent with non-discriminatory practices and guidelines.
  • Clearly specify and control the work of volunteers and ensure that their place of work is conducive to preserving their health, safety and general well-being
  • Ensure that volunteers obtain the knowledge, skills, feedback on work, and the recognition needed to effectively carry out their responsibilities.
  • Ensure that appropriate processes and procedures are established and followed for the effective planning, control, and review of all activities relating to the delivery of services by volunteers.
  • Establish a system and have defined procedures to control all documentation and personnel records that relate to the management of volunteers.
  • Plan and continually review its volunteer management system to ensure that opportunities to improve the quality of the system are identified and actively pursued.

The national standards are designed to take the best care of volunteers and maximise their enjoyment and personal development.

Volunteers are often the people who make the difference between an organisation’s success and failure.  If your not for profit does not have these policies and guidelines in place, it’s time you did.

Find a copy of the guidelines at Volunteering Australia.