Westpac Foundation to Award $2 Million in Grants for NFPs

The Westpac Foundation will award 200 grants totalling $2 million to not-for-profit organisations across Australia, as part of its annual Community Grants program.

Now in its seventh year, the program offers grants of $10,000 each for community groups working towards a fairer, more inclusive Australia by helping those in need with educational opportunities, employment pathways and improved quality of life.

With applications now open, members of the community have been invited to nominate local NFPs for the grant, while organisations are also welcomed to self-nominate.

Westpac Foundation CEO Susan Bannigan said: “We have a long history of helping Australians and are proud to continue this through the Community Grants program, which is all about supporting community organisations that are making a real difference.

“This year we’re looking forward to hearing from Australians about those doing great work in their local area.”

Since 1999, the Westpac Foundation has provided over $35 million to more than 590 NFPs around Australia.

Previous grants have been used to assist organisations to deliver education and employment pathways for Indigenous Australians, refugees and asylum seekers, and those experiencing homelessness.                                               

Grant recipients have also focused on providing safe refuge for women and youth at risk, assistance for people with disabilities and for those living with mental illness.

Bannigan said the program offered community groups valuable non-financial support as well.

“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,” she said.

Applications and nominations for the grants are open until 8 June, with recipients to be approved by the Westpac Foundation board and announced in September 2018.