Giving Back In 2026: Start Planning Now
Are you already thinking about your plans for next year? As you set goals for 2026 — travel, fitness, finances — why not add giving back to the list?
Volunteering and helping others doesn’t just benefit the community; studies show it boosts our own happiness, too. The great news is that opportunities to make a difference pop up all year round, and a little forward planning means you can find the ones that fit your lifestyle and schedule.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Join a community event
Clean Up Australia Day — happening in March. Register at cleanup.org.au and help keep our parks, beaches and neighbourhoods beautiful.
Give the gift of life
Join the Australian Stem Cell Registry (ages 18–35). You could be a life-saving match for someone in need.
Donate blood or plasma — one donation can help up to three people. Book through Lifeblood.
Volunteer Your TIme and Service
Not sure where to start? Many incredible Australian organisations rely on volunteers year-round. Whether you can give a few hours a month or want to join a longer-term project, here are some great places to look:
Foodbank Australia – Sort and pack food for families in need.
OzHarvest – Rescue surplus food and deliver it to local charities.
Conservation Volunteers Australia – Join environmental restoration projects.
WIRES – Care for injured native wildlife.
Landcare Australia – Help with bush regeneration and sustainability projects.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia – Mentor young people and make a lasting difference.
Starlight Children’s Foundation – Brighten hospital stays for seriously ill kids.
Support charity days
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month – all February – Wear teal and raise awareness.
Homelessness Week – early August – support charities working with those experiencing homelessness.
Also in August – Jeans for Genes Day — wear your denim and raise funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute.
Mark your calendar for October 21st – Loud Shirt Day, supporting The Shepherd Centre to help children with hearing loss.
Keep an eye out for Movember, Red Nose Day, and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea – small gestures that add up to big impact.
Giving back looks different for everyone. Whether it’s a few hours a month, a yearly event, or joining an ongoing cause, every contribution counts.
Are you already a volunteer or giving back in someway— or planning to start in 2026? We’d love to hear your story or your ideas in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to make next year one that really matters.
