WOW Day

Wear Orange Wednesday

Residents of NSW are encouraged to wear something orange on Wednesday, 21st of May to show their support and appreciation for their local NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers.

Wednesday 21 of May, 2025 is Wear Orange Wednesday or 'WOW Day'. On this day we encourage communities across Australia to wear orange and thank all SES volunteers across Australia who generously give their time to help communities during flood and storm emergencies.

Thank you to the dedicated volunteers throughout Australia who tirelessly dedicate themselves year-round to safeguard us during our most vulnerable moments. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your efforts in saving lives and protecting communities.

National Volunteer Week (NVW) serves as an annual celebration, recognising and honouring the invaluable contributions of our nation's volunteers. 

In 2025, National Volunteer Week aims to celebrate the diverse passions and talents that individuals contribute to the act of volunteering. This special occasion will also shine a spotlight on our exceptional SES volunteers.

Share your video or photo of thanks during May, and use the hashtag #thankyouSES.

Our key objectives for #WOWDay campaign 2025

• Recognise and appreciate our NSW SES volunteers.
• Awareness during National Volunteer Week (NVW).
• Strong social media campaign shared publicly on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
• Encourage people and businesses to wear orange on Wednesday 21 May.
• Share videos or photos of thanks during May, tag @NSWSES and use the hashtag #thankyouSES.

How you can get involved

Celebrate Wear Orange Wednesday 'WOW Day' 21 May 2025 with a morning tea

How can you support Wear Orange Wednesday? Whether you employ a NSW SES volunteer or just want to thank your local volunteers, here are a few ways you can get involved:

Wednesday 21 May 2025 is Wear Orange Wednesday or 'WOW Day'. On this day we encourage communities across Australia to wear orange and thank all SES volunteers who generously give their time to help communities during flood and storm emergencies.

Here’s to all the volunteers across Australia who work all year round to protect us at our most vulnerable. We thank you for saving lives and protecting communities.