The foundation documents

The foundation documents form a collection of materials developed in consultation with the volunteering sector.

These documents define what volunteering is, the principles that underpin volunteering, standards of best practice, and the major issues affecting the sector.  We consider this collection of documents to be integral to understanding the philosophy and practice of volunteering in Australia today. 

Definition and Principles of Volunteering - a definition of formal volunteering and its underpinning principles. 

Volunteer Rights and Volunteer Checklist - an overview of volunteers' rights and some important points for volunteers to check off with their organisation before volunteering.

Universal Declaration on Volunteering - an international statement about volunteering, its importance and place in the world, and what characterises volunteering.

A National Agenda on Volunteering:  Beyond the International Year of Volunteers - a legacy document from IYV2001 that provides a strategic framework for the future of volunteering in Australia.

National Standards for Involving Volunteers in Not for Profit Organisations - national standards that describe the elements of a best practice system for involving and managing volunteers.

National Standards Implementation Guide for Not for Profit Organisations Involving Volunteers - a guide to assist not for profit organisations in implementing the National Standards.

National Standards Workbook and Resource Kit - this workbook and resource kit is designed as a systematic and user-friendly method of implementing the national standards in your organisation.