Whether paid staff, members or volunteers, people are an integral part of any community organisation. Managing these relationships is an important factor in the success of your organisation.
On this page you will find information about:
Induction and training
ReimbursementRisk managementRecognitionCommunicationResolving disputesReview and pay attention
Induction and training
Induction
Induction generally involves an orientation program to familiarise new staff, members and volunteers with their organisation. Formal training may be required depending on the role to be undertaken. Volunteers will need guidance to help them in their role and in the work they do for the organisation.
Training
Training for staff and volunteers is an important consideration for any organisation. For some roles, training is essential but it can also motivate people and help them to achieve and maintain satisfaction in their role.
More information about induction and training is provided on the
resources for community organisations page of this site.
Reimbursement
Many organisations have policies and procedures in place about reimbursement so that both volunteers and organisational representatives understand what can be recovered.
The broad areas where volunteers may incur costs and seek a reimbursement include:
- transport - petrol, vehicle, public transport, parking
- phone calls
- safety equipment and clothing
- training
- stationery.
For more information see the reimbursement page on this site.
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Risk management
Organisations in South Australia have a responsibility to provide a healthy, safe and risk-free environment for their staff, members, volunteers and the communities they serve. More information about
risk management for your volunteers is provided on this site.
Organisations should ensure that their group and all people associated with it are adequately covered by insurance for the activities they undertake. Insurance can provide a level of protection for:
- public liability
- personal accident
- financial losses to committee members including loss of income for volunteers as a result of injury.
For more information see our insurance for your volunteers page.
Recognition
Everyday volunteers, staff and members offer their energy and enthusiasm to add value and make a difference to communities. They deserve to have their efforts recognised and appreciated by their organisation and the communities that benefit from their work.
More information about
volunteer recognition is provided on this site.
Communication
Keep your members, staff and volunteers up-to-date with any organisational changes and plans. Communicating information will ensure ongoing support and facilitate a more efficient workplace with a greater amount of collaboration.
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Some disputes can become complex if they are not dealt with quickly, or they may be serious matters covered by law such as:
- sexual harassment
- bullying
- discrimination.
It's important that serious issues are discussed with or referred to senior management, so they can assist in resolving the matter immediately. For more information see the
resolving disputes page on this site.
Review and pay attention
It can be helpful to invite your volunteers, staff and members to participate in giving feedback to the organisation while taking the time to listen and incorporate changes.
Without gaining feedback there is often no way you are going to know whether or not you are achieving what you have set out to do, or how you can improve or redirect your efforts to make your organisation more effective.
More information
On this site
Volunteer management
Resources for community organisations
Managing a community organisation
Aboriginal community organisations
Frequently asked questions about community organisations
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