Disaster recovery volunteers in Queensland will benefit from a new personal injury insurance program as the state government slashes red tape to encourage increased participation.

Participants in Volunteering Queensland’s Emergency Volunteering Community Response to Extreme Weather will access an annual WorkCover policy for injuries suffered when they are “activated” during any declared disaster.

Previously, insurance needed to be arranged for each disaster, which the state government says caused unnecessary delays.

“This new annual WorkCover arrangement ensures that our incredible volunteers can focus on what they do best – helping our communities recover and rebuild,” state Community Recovery Minister Amanda Camm said.

“Queenslanders deserve swift and effective responses during disasters. By getting volunteers on the ground faster, we’re ensuring communities get the urgent support they need when it matters most.”

The government has reported a 20% decline in volunteer participation over the past decade.

Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger says the organisation has been pushing for the reform for years.

“This will be a game-changer for us and local councils to safely deploy disaster volunteers,” she said.

“Thanks to the Queensland government, we’ve cut unnecessary red tape to make it easier for our ... volunteers to help their local community in times of need.”