MEDIA RELEASE 12 May 2025
More than six million people in Australia volunteer through organisations across the
nation, with 35,000 of them rolling their sleeves up at their local Meals on Wheels
service.
Ahead of the country’s largest celebration of volunteering, Meals on Wheels™
Australia is acknowledging its incredible volunteer workforce who make delivering
nourishment, social connection, wellbeing and independence possible.
National Volunteer Week, held 19-25 May, highlights the important role of
volunteers in our community and the power it has in bringing people together with
the theme “Connecting Communities.”
“For over 70 years, Meals on Wheels has connected thousands of Australians with
meaningful volunteering opportunities, providing purpose, forming lasting
friendships and strengthening communities,” Chair Paul Sadler said.
“Meals on Wheels volunteers are everyday Aussie heroes… a hardworking,
welcoming bunch always ready to roll up their sleeves and we are so thankful for
every single one of them!”
Mr Sadler is encouraging those who may or may not have considered volunteering
for their local Meals on Wheels service to “give it a go” and reap the wellbeing
benefits.
Huber Social’s 2022 Social Impact Report revealed Meals on Wheels volunteers
report a 10 percent higher wellbeing than other Australians. When compared to
other Australian volunteers, Meals on Wheels volunteers enjoy a 4 percent higher
overall wellbeing.
“Volunteering with Meals on Wheels builds a sense of belonging and we found
those who have been volunteering for at least six years reported significantly higher
scores across factors related to their sense of belonging.”
Mr Sadler said connection underpins everything at Meals on Wheels.
“Meals on Wheels is proud of its rich history in connecting older Australians to
delicious, nourishing food and social engagement with others, while providing
purposeful volunteering opportunities.”
