People across NSW are urged to shine a light on the state’s dedicated and brave emergency volunteers, through the inaugural NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award. This award is the first of its kind in NSW, designed to recognise all types of volunteers who have made an exceptional contribution to the NSW community during times of crisis. The award is delivered as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards which are run by the Centre for Volunteering – the peak body for volunteering in NSW. The award is open to emergency services volunteers, but also community groups and individuals who volunteer to support their community to prepare for, respond to, or recover from disasters. Nominations can be submitted for anyone who volunteers in association with an emergency services organisation, a community-based organisation, a non-government organisation, or unaffiliated with any organisation. This initiative follows the announcement earlier this year of the Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation, ensuring that the unique and vital contributions of emergency responders and volunteers during major NSW flood events between 2021 and 2023 are recognised. Individuals or volunteer teams can be nominated for the NSW Emergency Volunteer of the Year award across emergency prevention, preparation, response, or recovery efforts. Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said “This award improves the recognition of not only volunteers from emergency services organisations, but also informal volunteers and other community organisations. It’s just one way to let your local emergency volunteers know their dedication and contribution doesn’t go unnoticed. Our dedicated volunteers across NSW provide emergency support for people when they’re most in need. They’re often first on the scene, protecting and caring for us when we need it most." With Cowra and Canowindra being served by both SES and RFS crews, as well as many other emergency volunteers, residents are urged to nominate volunteer staff for the award. Mr Dib said “Almost everyone knows someone who gives their time as an emergency volunteer. I urge you to go online and take the time to nominate them for this important award.” Minister with responsibility for volunteering Jodie Harrison reflected on the varied backgrounds of volunteers, who underpin much of community safety and wellbeing in times of great need “Volunteers come from all walks of life and represent the beating heart of communities across NSW." she said, "Volunteers deserve to know they are valued and that’s why this award matters. We know volunteers don’t work hard for accolades, they do it because they are committed to building better communities and helping those in need.” Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said “The Centre welcomes the additional support this year of NSW emergency services, which highlights just how important these awards are to the state. Volunteers are always there to provide care, support, and lifesaving response during floods, storms, and fire across our beaches and water ways. This is a wonderful initiative of the NSW Government, and we look forward to meeting many of the inspiring emergency volunteers at our regional ceremonies later in the year.” Nominations can be submitted before 5pm on Friday, 23 May 2025.
