The Nationals WA have unveiled a comprehensive plan to support over 50,000 Western Australian volunteers annually, eliminating unnecessary costs and introducing protections to make volunteering easier and more accessible.
Announced on Thank a Volunteer Day, Lachlan Hunter, Candidate for Central Wheatbelt said The Nationals in Government would waive fees for Working with Children Checks (WWCC), National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) checks, and National Police Certificates for volunteers, including students on unpaid placements.
“Despite being the wealthiest state in the nation, WA remains one of the most expensive places to volunteer,” Hunter said.
“At a time when the cost-of-living crisis is hitting families hard, removing these financial and administrative barriers is a meaningful way to support and encourage volunteering.”
In the electorate of Central Wheatbelt volunteers play a vital role socially and economically.
“From sporting clubs to schools, Men’s Sheds to CRCs, volunteers are the backbone of all country towns, and it is important that we make it easier for people to get involved”.
The Nationals’ commitment will also extend presumptive Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) protections to all emergency service volunteers, including firefighters, SES, marine rescue, and St John Ambulance personnel.
“The Cook Labor Government has failed to prioritise PTSD protections for volunteers who risk their mental health to serve their communities,”
“Over 30,000 emergency service volunteers have long called for these protections, which are already in place for career firefighters and paramedics.
Volunteers should not have to endure costly and re-traumatising battles to prove their injuries are service-related.”
The Nationals WA also committed an additional $100,000annually to Volunteering WA to enhance their capacity to support volunteers during emergencies.
“The best way to thank our volunteers is through meaningful support and practical policies, and that’s exactly what The Nationals in Government will deliver,” Mr Hunter said.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of communities across WA, and it’s time we made it easier and more affordable for them to continue their incredible work.”
