Volunteers are at the heart of orienteering, creating the events, opportunities and welcoming communities that make our sport possible. Orienteering Australia is committed to making volunteering easy, inclusive, supported, flexible and rewarding, with resources and guidance available to help you confidently take on a volunteer role.
This guide introduces the many ways you can contribute. Each role is essential, valued, and rewarding in its own way. Your time, effort, and enthusiasm help ensure that orienteering events are safe, enjoyable, and memorable for participants of all ages and abilities.
Club members may wish to print one page of a specific role to share with new volunteers.
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and the Sport Volunteer Coalition have launched a Sport Volunteer Resource Hub, an online one-stop-shop that will help sporting organisations support and attract more volunteers.
Use the information below to help you to develop a plan to recruit, empower and celebrate your volunteers.
The Hub is designed to support those involved in volunteering in sport. Be it at your local club through to major sporting events such as a national championship or mass participation event.
The Hub is based around the Sport Volunteer Experience Framework, providing you with the opportunity to engage with the Vision for the Future of Sport Volunteering and the five identified elements that should underpin all volunteer experiences. These elements apply regardless of the sport, organisation, role or individual.
Volunteering must be simple, accessible, and well supported. OA will minimise administrative burden, provide clear role descriptions, and streamline onboarding.
Volunteers must feel welcomed, included, and connected to the orienteering community. OA will foster a culture of respect, diversity, and community belonging.
Volunteers must receive the training, supervision, and resources required to perform their roles confidently and safely.
Volunteer roles and pathways should reflect individual motivations, skills, and availability. OA will offer flexible, meaningful opportunities.
Volunteers must be recognised and appreciated. OA will continue to implement consistent recognition practices across the sport.
