Australia supports International Volunteer Day 2008

In recognition of the millions of people who devote their time to volunteering, the Governments of Australia and Indonesia are joining forces with key volunteer organisations to improve coordination for volunteering in Indonesia.

To mark International Volunteer Day, Government, international and domestic donors have combined to establish a Volunteers for Change Roundtable to promote coordination for the future of volunteering in Indonesia.

The Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer, told the meeting volunteers make a valuable contribution to development and the promotion of cooperation and understanding between countries.

“Since 1999, more than 300 Australian volunteers have worked in Indonesia to strengthen the ties that bind our two nations. The Australian Government is proud to honour their achievements on International Volunteer Day.” Mr Farmer said.

The Australian Volunteering program is an active contributor to Australia’s development program in Indonesia and the Australian Government has committed about Rp27.6 billion to the program in Indonesia this year.

As part of International Volunteer Day celebrations, the Governments of Australia and Indonesia along with key providers including United Nations Volunteers, the British Council, Voluntary Service Overseas and the Caring Community, are also showcasing volunteering in Indonesia through an afternoon celebration at Taman Menteng.

The event features the launch of the Caring Communities inaugural Clean up Jakarta campaign, a Volunteers for Change photographic exhibition, interactive sports displays, recycling activities and performances by bands Kuno Kiri and Urban Vibe.

Australia is the largest international provider of volunteers in Indonesia, with Australians committing their time and skills through AusAID funded programs. Australian volunteers come from a wide variety of age groups and professional backgrounds and work in a range of fields from health, education and the environment to sport, the arts and community projects.

For more information on Australian volunteer programs visit: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/partner/volunteer.cfm

Media inquiries:
Natasha Simpson 08111872365 / Mia Salim 08121070237 AusAID Public Affairs