The true value of volunteer participation across all sectors of society is incalculable, and gradually increasing across Australia. While it is obvious that volunteers do work for free, there are still costs involved with volunteer efforts. Imagining our society without the input of willing volunteers is impossible, and it is important that volunteer impact is properly recognised.

Annually, over six million Australians over the age of 18 volunteer in some capacity, and contribute $14.6 billion dollar to our economy. These volunteers and their services range widely in age, so any mental picture is likely to be too simplified. There are kids who pick up rubbish as part of membership to a local activities club, and certified accountants who sit as treasurers to nationwide organisations.

Their efforts, and those of millions of others, is so significant the Australian Government has been increasing policies regarding their protection and regulation for some time. In many instances, volunteers do the same work as paid employees, and so it seems fitting they should be covered by legislation to protect them against certain risks they face, such as workplace harassment.

The not-for-profit sector, which contributes $55 billion per year to the Australian economy, relies heavily on the participation of volunteers. Through NFPs, the provision of services by volunteers results in savings to the taxpayer, and helps create more than a million jobs each year.

At the same time, there are costs involved with training and managing volunteers, and ensuring proper background check procedures are undertaken. As well as these expenses to organisations, individuals often meet the costs of transportation and other out-of-pocket expenses. These factors all need to be properly accounted for if a clear picture of the economics of volunteering is to be fully understood.

Your Admin Bandit software system can help you track your costs and expenses quickly and easily. Contact us today and we will show you how simple it can be.