Volunteers to be recognised at 2018 Awards

Over my last 20 months here at the Institute, I’ve had the chance to meet and work with many of our volunteers who contribute in so many ways. These volunteers continue to inspire me. They are busy professionals, like you, who find time to use their skills and experience to contribute to their profession.

The Institute relies heavily on the goodwill and support from its 500 + or so volunteers to implement key programs and initiatives ranging from education programs, events, public policy and contributing to digital communication content. 

This is something to be proud of and we ought to celebrate these generous and passionate volunteers.

In 2017 the Institute introduced ‘Volunteer of the Year Awards” to celebrate and recognise the effort of our volunteers who help enhance and extend the work of the Institute, bring new insights and ideas, and benefit the profession at large.  

National Volunteer Week (NVW) runs from 21–27 May 2018; an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers. Thousands of #NVW2018 events will be held across the country to say thank you to the six million Australians who volunteer their time. Our Awards will be presented on 22nd May at the Hilton in Sydney.

2017 Award Recipients

Avanti Pakti –  Young Volunteer Achievement Award for her leadership ability and her contribution to the Institute’s Young Actuary Program in a such short time she’s been in her professional working career. she was part of the 2016 GI Glimpse Organising Committee, Climate Change Working Group and 2017 YAP Conference Organising Committee which attracted more than 100 attendees and received a lot of positive feedback from those who attended. 

Gae Robinson – Distinguished Service Award for her commitment and time involved in the Institute’s Education System Review. As Convenor of the ECC, Gae ensures the Institute’s education system is effective. This is one area that presents operational challenges and Gae has been instrumental in driving the change in the Institute’s education system. Gae has been an active volunteer in many capacities since 1998.

 “My volunteering experiences with the Institute have been rich and rewarding – I’ve had the satisfaction of making things happen, as well as working with lots of great people along the way.  I encourage everyone who has time and passion to volunteer in an area that interests them.

I’m honoured to receive the first Distinguished Service Award – which could have gone to so many people!” said Gae in her acceptance speech.

Andrew Boal – President’s Award for his long-term contribution to the Institute’s key volunteer activities and his external positive influence on the profession particularly as a key contributor and commentator in the retirement income policy debates. Andrew was the Convenor for the Superannuation Practice Committee for nine years from 2008 to 2016.  He also served on Council in 2012 and on the HR & Remuneration Council Committee (2012-2015). He is the current Chair of the Retirement Strategy group.  He has been involved in over 140 submissions and two significant White Papers: Australia’s Longevity Tsunami, What Should we Do?  and For Richer for Poorer, Retirement Incomes.

“It is very humbling to receive the President’s Award for my volunteer work with the Institute.  The profession has provided me with so many career opportunities, it is a privilege to be able to support the profession in some way in return.  At the same time, being able to influence public policy, especially in such an important area as retirement and the ageing, has been really rewarding for me personally,” said Andrew in his award acceptance speech.

This year we have introduced a fourth award category The Spirit of Volunteering Award which recognises the outstanding efforts of a volunteer who is committed and passionate about their volunteering duties. Someone who consistently contributes and helps others. Committee Convenors are especially encouraged to nominate outstanding members of their committees here.

We all know that one person who has gone above and beyond to ensure the work of the committee or the project is done, help us celebrate and recognise our outstanding volunteers by nominating them for an award.  

• The Spirit of Volunteering Award
• The President’s Award
• The Young Volunteer Achievement Award
• The Distinguished Service Award

Find out more and nominate in three easy steps:

1. Take a look at the criteria for each award;
2. Watch this short video; and
3. Submit your nomination via this short online form.

 We value all our volunteers and the incredible job they do.

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