RWVP fee waived in move to support volunteers across Tasmania

By Heather Excell

A change that came into effect on 1 January is making it easier for Tasmanians to step forward as volunteers, with the Registration to Work with Vulnerable People (RWVP) now free for the next two years.

The fee-free period forms part of a broader government approach aimed at strengthening volunteering across the state by reducing financial barriers and recognising the vital contribution volunteers make to community life. The Tasmanian Government has said removing the cost of registration will make it easier for more people to get involved, particularly during a time of cost-of-living pressures.

The Archdiocese of Hobart’s Director of Professional Standards and Safe Communities, Kathy Tarte, said she believes the change is “a real recognition of the many dedicated hours” that volunteers give to organisations across the state.

“Volunteers are the backbone of parishes performing many critical roles,” she said. “It’s a really positive step by the Tasmanian government which has recognised that the fee could be a disincentive for people to volunteer their valued time.”

Many volunteer positions in the church can be seen as positions of trust and confidence within the parish and broader community. Even volunteers undertaking seemingly minor tasks can quickly become role models and trusted people within parish life.

The Archdiocesan Safe Communities team has developed a framework for screening volunteers, with the RWVP check forming one important part of the process.

“If we’re putting people into positions of trust where they can influence or support other people, it’s really important to make sure that those people are appropriately screened,” Kathy said. “The RWVP check is a confidence piece for our volunteers, and an assurance piece for the Church and its administrators.”

While the RWVP is an important safeguard, it does not stand alone or replace the ongoing responsibility of parishes to remain vigilant in their care for one another.

With the cost barrier removed, Kathy hopes more people will be encouraged to take on volunteering roles in their parish communities.

“We would really encourage people to go and get registered with the registrar given that it’s now fee-free,” she said, “and if you are one of our much-treasured volunteers and you don’t yet hold registration, it is a requirement that you do so.”

Application forms can now be completed online, with applicants only needing to visit a Service Tasmania centre to have their photo taken. People struggling to lodge the form are invited to attend a Service Tasmania or State Library outlet for assistance.

Applicants should ensure that the Archdiocese of Hobart is listed as one of the places they volunteer.