Media releases

Applications closing soon for Westpac Foundation’s Community Grants Program

30 May, 2018

  • $2 million in funding available for not-for-profit organisations across the country
  • Applications close Friday 8 June 2018 at 5pm AEST
  • Since 1999, Westpac Foundation has provided more than $35 million in grants to over 590 not-for-profit organisations


Applications for Westpac Foundation’s annual Community Grants program will close on Friday 8 June, 5pm AEST.
 

The Community Grants program, now in its seventh year, consists of 200 grants of $10,000 each which are available to not-for-profit organisations that are working towards a fairer, more inclusive Australia.
 

Local organisations and members of the community are invited to nominate local not-for-profit groups who support socially and economically disadvantaged Australians.
 

Westpac Foundation CEO, Susan Bannigan said, “We have a long history of helping Australians and are proud to support community organisations that are helping others.
 

“We’re calling on Australians to nominate local organisations who are supporting Australians in need and improving their quality of life through education and employment programs. With less than two weeks until nominations close, we look forward to hearing from organisations across the country who are making a real difference in their community,” Ms Bannigan said.
 

Westpac Foundation’s Community Grants program has assisted organisations to deliver education and employment pathways for Indigenous Australians, refugees and asylum seekers, and those experiencing homelessness. Additionally, the grants have helped to provide safe refuge for women and youth at risk, as well as assistance for people living with disabilities or mental illness.
 

“In addition to the $10,000 grant, each community organisation is matched with a Westpac Group employee ambassador and has access to employee volunteers, who are keen to share their skills, resources and networks to help create even greater social impact,” Ms Bannigan said.
 

Applications and nominations are open until 5pm AEST on Friday, 8 June 2018. Successful grant recipients will be finalised by the Westpac Foundation Board and announced in September 2018.
 

To nominate, apply or find out more information visit: westpac.com.au/grants
 

For Further Information

Gemma Davies

0411 499 335

gemma.davies@mapandpage.com.au

Amy Sassella-Otley

0400 657 117

amy.sassellaotley@mapandpage.com.au

 

ABOUT WESTPAC FOUNDATION

Westpac Foundation is a charitable organisation with a legacy that dates back 138 years. In 1879 Thomas Buckland, the President of the Bank of New South Wales (which became Westpac), established The Buckland Fund to help families of deceased bank employees who found themselves in financial hardship. The fund commenced with Mr Buckland's initial donation of £1,000, a bonus he received for services to the bank.

 

Today, Westpac Foundation continues to support social enterprises and local grassroots organisations taking a fresh approach to addressing complex social problems, borrowing the best from business and the social sector to create more opportunity for Australia’s most disadvantaged. While being independent, Westpac Foundation considers Westpac Group to be its greatest supporter.

 

Since 1999, Westpac Foundation has provided more than $35 million to over 590 not-for-profit organisations and remains steadfast in its goal to help open doors to social and financial inclusion for fellow Australians experiencing disadvantage.