Celebrating the Heart of Rural Australia: Volunteers Connect Communities with Rural Aid
As National Volunteer Week (19–25 May 2025) shines a spotlight on the incredible contribution of volunteers across Australia, Rural Aid is proud to celebrate the everyday heroes who dedicate their time and energy to supporting our farming communities.
This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” couldn’t be more fitting. Volunteers are the beating heart of Rural Aid – helping to rebuild, reconnect and rejuvenate rural Australia through hands-on support, empathy, and enduring commitment.
“Volunteers are the human connection between city and country,” said Rural Aid CEO Mr John Warlters. “They show up not just with tools and time, but with compassion. Their efforts remind our farmers that they are not alone – that Australians care deeply about those who grow the food and fibre that sustains us all.”
From lending a hand during Farm Recovery Events, to supporting fundraising efforts, to being part of our dedicated Farm Army and Community Builders programs, volunteers are involved in every corner of Rural Aid’s work.
- Farm Recovery Events bring volunteers together to repair fences, paint homesteads, plant trees and more – helping to restore not just properties, but spirits.
- Community Builders work alongside locals to revitalise struggling regional towns, delivering long-term support and practical improvements.
- The Farm Army connects skilled and unskilled volunteers with farmers in need of a helping hand – whether that’s for a weekend or a few months.
“The impact our volunteers make is immeasurable,” said Mr Warlters. “Every hour they give translates to hope for a farming family doing it tough. In Rural Aid’s ten-year history, our volunteers have contributed more than 50,000 hours of their time – a staggering show of generosity and commitment. Volunteering is a way of saying thank you to the farmers who work tirelessly to feed and clothe the nation.”
Rural Aid is calling on Australians – individuals, corporate teams, and community groups – to consider giving their time, skills or resources to rural communities.
👉 To volunteer, visit: www.ruralaid.org.au/volunteers
👉 To donate and support Rural Aid’s vital work, visit: www.ruralaid.org.au/donate
This National Volunteer Week, let’s celebrate the power of connection – and the volunteers who bring Australia’s communities together.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, dedicated to providing practical support and vital services to farmers and rural communities. Since its establishment in 2015, the charity has been a lifeline during times of crisis, delivering essential services such as mental health support, hay, domestic water, and community engagement. As the organisation celebrates 10 years of service, it continues to partner with farmers to navigate challenges, recover from hardship, and build stronger, more resilient futures, shaping a brighter future for rural Australia.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au