Aurizon's Community Giving Fund: Empowering local initiatives and enriching lives
Aurizon, Australia's largest rail-based transport business, has proudly announced the latest recipients of its Community Giving Fund which benefits charities and community organisations across Australia.
This fund supports Aurizon's commitment to enriching and engaging with the communities in which employees live and work. Grants are awarded to support initiatives in education, community safety, environment, and health and well-being.
Andrew Harding, Aurizon Managing Director & CEO, said the grants of up to $20,000 support the important work of local non-profit organisations which play a vital role in serving the communities across Aurizon's operational footprint.
"We are thrilled to be able to support the regional areas where more than 80% of Aurizon's employees live and work. By assisting these local projects through our Community Giving Fund, it allows Aurizon to give back and positively influence the lives of the people in these regions," he said.
In this round, 30 deserving recipients have been selected for funding across Australia and various community initiatives.
"For example, in the Northern Territory we are supporting Charity Bounce Limited, by funding the delivery of their Hoop Dreams initiative for young people, utilising sport as an engagement and employment facilitation tool. The program aims to empower young people in the Nyewente Community with the knowledge and skills to become future leaders and role models through training and employment initiatives.
"In New South Wales we are supporting South Coast Rescue Squad Incorporated, by funding the purchase of a Jaws of Life tool for the Wollongong Volunteer Rescue squad, to be used in the event of emergencies in their local area.
"In South Australia we are supporting Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation Limited, by funding the creation of a community well-being program in Whyalla, addressing a gap that exists in regional communities around mental health awareness and education. The program, Mates Meals and Mental Health will be delivered to over 100 community members. A further 20 individuals will be supported to undertake mental health first aid training to increase the number of facilitators for mental health conversations within the community.
"In Western Australia we are supporting Secondbite, by funding the purchase of food items and the cost of delivery, to the local Esperance community, helping to improve access to free nutritious food for community members experiencing hunger.
"In Queensland we are supporting the CQ Capras Rugby League Limited, by funding the rollout of the CQ Capras school engagement program with Year 5 and 6 students throughout the Central Highlands and Rockhampton regions. The project is designed to explore issues relating to the transition between primary and high school through physical activity, well-being and education modules, along with mentorship from Capras support staff," Mr Harding said.
A list of all the latest Aurizon Community Giving Fund recipients and their projects is available here.
Background
Aurizon's Community Giving Fund distributes funds bi-annually and provides grants of up to $20,000. More than 630 charities and not-for-profit groups across Australia have received grants since the Fund was established in 2011.
The next round of applications for the Community Giving Fund will open in September 2024.
