Snow Australia volunteer survey highlights key areas for improvement and engagement

Earlier in 2024, Snow Australia conducted a survey with snowsports volunteers and clubs to gain deeper insights into our volunteer base and identify ways to better support and engage them.

Analysis of the results of the Volunteer Week - Volunteer Survey has highlighted there are key challenges and opportunities to enhance volunteer engagement within the industry. The survey of stakeholders included clubs, lodges, schools and volunteers. It highlighted several strengths within the volunteer community, as well as some overall areas for improvement.

The survey revealed that volunteers are generally satisfied across several key areas, including the diversity of volunteer roles, on-the-job training and the sense of accomplishment and community they experience. 

Download Volunteer Survey Insights (PDF)

"Many volunteers in the survey reported feeling a strong sense of belonging and connection to the snow sports community, which greatly contributes to their personal satisfaction,” Rebecca Clark, Snow Australia’s Community Engagement Manager.

“It's crucial for Snow Australia to nurture this connection by ensuring that volunteers feel supported and appreciated, which will in turn help to sustain and grow participation in our sport.

“To do this, we must identify the key challenges and opportunities and provide support to our organisations and events to deliver on these opportunities.”

While the survey highlighted positive feedback, it also emphasised the need for improvements in communication, role clarity and flexibility in volunteering options.

Additionally, volunteers expressed a strong desire for greater appreciation and recognition. The findings indicate that the industry heavily relies on volunteers aged 40 to 60, underscoring the importance of exploring ways to engage new volunteers from the younger generations.

"People are often short on time, lack confidence, or feel they don’t have the right skills to contribute to clubs, lodges or events,” said Clark. “It’s our responsibility to clearly communicate the various roles, expectations, time commitments and responsibilities involved.

“Additionally, we need to better understand the younger generation within our snowsport community to engage them effectively and support succession planning within our sport.”

The survey highlights the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive volunteer environment to ensure the success of Snow Australia's programs and events.

The findings will now help guide a future Volunteer Strategy to meet the needs and expectations of volunteers.

"This survey provides a foundation for Snow Australia’s commitment to creating volunteer-friendly environments that meet the needs of its community,” said Clark.

“By continuing to build on these strengths, Snow Australia will ensure that  volunteers are engaged, motivated, and empowered to continue to have a lasting impact."