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Research and Reports
1 minute read

Evidence insights: volunteering and mental health

This resource summarises research evidence on the relationship between volunteering and mental health and wellbeing.

Benefits for volunteer managers

  • design of volunteering roles that promote positive mental health and wellbeing
  • support wellbeing in volunteer roles
  • understand potential risks and challenges related to volunteering and mental health.

How to apply this resource

Use this research to inform policy, program design and support strategies related to volunteer wellbeing.

More about the author

Volunteering Australia is the national peak body for volunteering, working to advance volunteering in the Australian community. Their vision is to promote strong, connected communities through volunteering, and their mission is to lead, strengthen, promote and celebrate volunteering in Australia.

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