Benefits of Sport

Volunteering provides substantial benefits to sport, society, and to the volunteers themselves. ^{1, 2, 3, 4, 33}

Sports organisations can gain from greater diversity in viewpoints, decision making, and leadership, new and innovative ideas for strategies and programs, and increased participation and fan bases. In return, sport can offer enhanced social, educational, employment, and wellbeing outcomes. ^{3, 5, 6, 33}

Several surveys and reports have shown that more people volunteer in the sporting sector than any other (e.g., religious or cultural sectors). ^{7, 8}

In 2020, 31% of Australians who volunteered through an organisation, chose activities related to sports and physical recreation.⁷

Sport volunteers are estimated to donate 158 million hours annually– equivalent to nearly 90,000 full-time jobs and $3 billion in economic value.²⁰

In 2018, 95% of employers believe that volunteering can be a credible way of gaining real work experience. ⁵

In 2020, 66% of volunteers engaged in volunteering for personal satisfaction or to do something worthwhile. ⁷

In 2020, 74% of volunteers engaged in volunteering to help others or their community. ⁷

Impact

See more on this topic:

• Overview
• Benefits of Sport
• Factors influencing participation
• Volunteer management
• Policies, programs, and supporting structures
• Awards and recognition