ANZ’s Community Foundation works in partnership with local organisations to provide funding for projects that support financial wellbeing, housing, environmental sustainability or other initiatives that assist communities to thrive.

In 2021, $316,000 was granted to 16 community organisations. Since 1988, more than 900 grants valued at more than $6 million have been distributed across Australia.

This year, all money raised will be awarded to organisations that aim to assist their community in the following areas:

• Financial wellbeing, particularly for under-represented and disadvantaged people in the community, including initiatives that improve economic participation. For example, building financial literacy and vocational skills and providing access to meaningful work
• Environmental sustainability through initiatives that restore and conserve the natural environment or which contribute to water stewardship, lower carbon emissions, and waste minimisation
• Housing access through initiatives and programs that support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness or that provide support for people living with disability
• Other community projects that assist local communities to thrive

Chair of the Foundation Sarah Stubbings said: “Every year, we are impressed by the ingenuity and passion that these groups have to build strong foundations that help people and their communities to thrive.

“We’re proud to be able to support organisations to deliver programs which make a real difference. The most rewarding part of this program is seeing the ideas come to life,” Ms Stubbings said.

The Community Foundation is funded by ANZ employees, and for every dollar they contribute through the workplace giving program, the Bank matches it with an additional two dollars.

Applications are open from today until 5pm on 17 March, with a National Advisory Board and State Committees comprising ANZ employees to decide the granting rounds each year.

To find out more or to make an application please visit Equity Trustees.