Review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority

Review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority

Communication and community engagement

23

Spontaneous volunteers are important during recovery but require further consideration

Recommendation 7

That the NSW Reconstruction Authority consult with local communities and

organisations to develop a strategic framework and/or practical guidance

around the management and support of spontaneous volunteers.

3.32 Spontaneous volunteers are community members who volunteer in one-off

events to support their local community during disasters.

143 The Committee

heard that volunteers play a vital role in disaster response and recovery.144

However, there are emerging challenges in managing spontaneous volunteers

and other 'pop up' organisations during recovery from disasters.145

3.33 Stakeholders raised concerns around insurance and liability for spontaneous

volunteers and organisations.146 Mr Panuccio noted that it is necessary for

councils to manage community expectations around spontaneous volunteering,

including sensitivities around accepting this type of assistance and not dismissing

help from well-meaning individuals.

147

3.34 The Committee heard that the Authority has previously provided support to

councils and social service organisations to manage spontaneous volunteers in

the form of short-term programs and grants.

148 However, there is no consistent

or strategic approach to support this coordination.149

3.35 The Committee is concerned that the support provided by 'pop up' organisations

following disasters may risk creating community confusion about which recovery

services are provided by the Authority, such as those provided at Recovery

Centres and Recovery Assistance Points. Management of spontaneous

volunteering should aim to reduce any confusion for local residents, such as

through effective communication that clarifies which organisations are available

to support them.

3.36 The Authority should continue to monitor feedback and issues around

spontaneous volunteers and consult with local communities and organisations to

develop a strategic framework or practical guidance for future recovery

operations. This would help optimise the use of community-led participation

while balancing associated risks.

143 NSW SES, Spontaneous volunteer, accessed 20 April 2026.

144 Submission 19, p 4.

145 Anna Flack, Transcript of evidence, 17 February 2026, p 15; Adrian Panuccio, Transcript of evidence, 17 February

2026, p 15.

146 Anna Flack, Transcript of evidence, 17 February 2026, p 15; Adrian Panuccio, Transcript of evidence, 17 February

2026, p 15.

147 Adrian Panuccio, Transcript of evidence, 17 February 2026, p 15.

148 Submission 19, p 4; Carers NSW, Answers to questions on notice, 23 November 2025, p 3.

149 Submission 19, p 4; Submission 22, p 6; Anna Flack, Transcript of evidence, 17 February 2026, p 15.