Autonomy, belongingness and competence: the ABCs of emergency volunteer retention

Across Australia, emergency service organisations are seeking ways to improve volunteer satisfaction and wellbeing, in an effort to improve retention rates. Previous research has investigated various predictors of turnover, but has not considered the individual psychological needs of volunteers. 

Hazard Note 76 presents data and insights into volunteer retention for State Emergency Services. This research from the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC shows that satisfaction of basic psychological needs (of autonomy, belongingness and competence) has a positive effect on volunteer role satisfaction and wellbeing, and reduces volunteers' intentions to leave.

Drawing on this research, Hazard Note 76 delivers new recruitment and retention strategies for volunteer services across the country.