2026: The Year of Volunteers — And Landcare’s Time to Shine

Jan 15, 2026

2026 marks International Volunteer Year — a global celebration of the people who power positive change in communities everywhere. For Landcare, it’s an especially meaningful moment. Volunteers have always been the heart of our movement, driving hands‑on action, strengthening community resilience, and caring for the landscapes that sustain us.

Across Australia, Landcare volunteers are restoring bushland, protecting biodiversity, supporting sustainable agriculture, and building strong, connected communities. Their work embodies exactly what International Volunteer Year 2026 is all about: local leadership, collective action, and a shared commitment to a healthier future.

As the world turns its attention to the impact of volunteering, Landcare is uniquely placed to lead the conversation. With thousands of groups and countless volunteers working on Australia’s diverse land and seascapes every day, our movement shows how grassroots action can create national — and global — impact. International Volunteer Year is an opportunity to elevate these stories, celebrate the people behind them, and inspire even more Australians to get involved.

Community Landcare welcomes people from all walks of life to get involved — and in a time of intensifying climate pressures, global warming, and increasingly unpredictable weather, every set of hands matters. Your effort, your voice, and your passion can make a real difference. Whether it’s planting trees, monitoring wildlife, learning from Traditional Owners, or supporting community events, every volunteer contributes to a stronger, more resilient Australia. And in 2026, we’ll be shining an even brighter light on their efforts.

Connect with your local Landcare group: www.nln.org.au/connect.

And to learn more about International Volunteer Year 2026 and how communities around the world are celebrating volunteers: explore the global initiative: https://forum-ids.org/international-volunteer-year-2026/.

As we move into this milestone year, the National Landcare Network looks forward to celebrating our volunteers, amplifying their impact, and welcoming new people into the Landcare community. Together, we can make 2026 a powerful year for people, place, and the planet.

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