The definition of volunteering

A definition of formal volunteering is a critical reference for the sector. It protects the integrity of volunteering, and it also protects volunteers by ensuring that the term “volunteering” and what is and is not intended when we use this word is widely understood.

The formal definition and principles of volunteering are the result of a national consultation undertaken in 1996 with a wide range of stakeholders including volunteers, personnel of not for profit organisations, policy makers and unions.  They are enshrined in one of Volunteering Australia's foundation documents: 

Definition and principles of volunteering

You may also wish to look at the Universal Declaration on Volunteering, an international statement about volunteering, its importance and place in the world, and what characterises volunteering.  This statement was adopted by the international board of directors of IAVE, The International Association for Volunteer Effort, at its 16th World Volunteer Conference:

Universal Declaration on Volunteering