The Latest Breaking News from Mark Pearce

The brave volunteers turning trauma into purpose

After tragedy and trauma changed their lives forever, some volunteers use lived experience to support others through grief, crisis and recovery.

AAP · May 16

How to find community in 2025: ‘The most important thing I’ve learned is I’m not alone’

Civic participation is in decline across the English-speaking world. To opt out of the trend, Tom Gill learns to join in

The Guardian - AU · Aug 25, 2025

Starlight recipient-turned-volunteer 'pays it forward'

More people are being urged to join the millions of Australians who volunteer each year, everywhere from hospitals to local parks and creeks.

AAP · May 18, 2025

Charities struggle to survive rising costs, increasing demand, dwindling resources

More people are turning to charities for help as the cost of living rises but the increased demand for services is not being met with more funding or resources.

ABC News · Apr 21, 2023

Volunteer firefighter celebrates 50 years with message for next generation of volunteers

When Stanthorpe local James Massey joined the Rural Fire Service at 21, it was almost expected of anyone who lived on the land. But finding young people to replace his generation is a difficult task.

ABC News · Apr 1, 2023

Could city dwellers be the answer to declining emergency service volunteers in the country?

Natural disasters are putting the volunteer workforce under increasing pressure at the same time as volunteer numbers are declining, so how can it be made more sustainable?

ABC News · Feb 27, 2023

Volunteers are needed more than ever, but the recruitment system is on the brink of collapse

A national network of volunteer recruitment centres says more than half its branches have closed or are likely to close within the financial year, warning of dire consequences for people who rely on charities.

ABC News · Sep 29, 2022

Community events cancelled, emergency services stretched as volunteer numbers fall

Across the country, festivals and programs are being cancelled due to a lack of volunteers. Is it just a dip linked to the COVID pandemic, or have we become more selfish?

ABC News · Aug 13, 2022

Bespoke glove makers Chester Jefferies to close

Young people lack interest in working at Dorset-based factory on ‘old-fashioned craft’, says founder’s son

The Guardian - UK · May 31, 2022