National Youth Volunteer Week (10 to 16 August 2026) is Australia’s national celebration of young volunteers and the organisations that support them.
This year marks an exciting new chapter, with National Student Volunteer Week evolving into National Youth Volunteer Week. The new name reflects the many ways young people contribute to their communities, whether through schools, universities, sporting clubs, community groups, emergency services, environmental projects, arts organisations or informal volunteering.
The 2026 theme, Your Year to Lead, celebrates the leadership, ideas and impact that young volunteers bring to communities across Australia. Leadership doesn’t always begin with a title. It begins with showing up, taking initiative, supporting others and creating positive change.
Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing inspiring stories of young volunteers, highlighting organisations creating meaningful opportunities, and showcasing the many ways volunteering builds connection, confidence and belonging
Get involved
There are plenty of ways to celebrate National Youth Volunteer Week.
- Recognise the young volunteers making a difference in your organisation or community.
- Share stories that celebrate youth leadership and volunteering.
- Host an event or activity during the week.
- Join the conversation using #NYVW2026 and #YourYearToLead.
Whether you’re a volunteer involving organisation, educator, community leader, employer or young volunteer, National Youth Volunteer Week is an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of young people and inspire the next generation of volunteers.
Campaign resources
Everything you need to take part is available in our National Youth Volunteer Week resource hub, including logos, social media assets, certificates, promotional materials and our Supporter Toolkit .
We encourage organisations across Australia to download the resources and help spread the message throughout the week.
Share Your Story
One story has the power to inspire another.
We’re inviting young volunteers and volunteer involving organisations to share their experiences of youth volunteering. Your story could encourage someone else to step forward, discover a new opportunity or recognise the difference volunteering makes.
Together, let’s celebrate the young people who are leading, connecting and strengthening communities across Australia.
National Youth Volunteer Week 2026
10 to 16 August 2026
Theme: Your Year to Lead
