Bendigo’s Bank’s charitable arm, Community Enterprise Foundation (CEF) has today revealed a $19.1 million injection into Australian communities for a multitude of grants, scholarships and community-building initiatives for financial year 2024.
Releasing its yearbook in celebration of a massive year, the Foundation’s CEO, David Impey said the $19.1 million investment on behalf of the Community Bank network, Bendigo Bank and its donors has already begun to make a significant impact in many communities across Australia.
This year’s contribution takes the overall distribution to nearly $200 million since inception to assist with thousands of initiatives and programs.
“Together with our partners, we are wholeheartedly committed to working with communities to support their resilience and growth. Today’s release of our 2024 Yearbook shows how proud we are as an organisation to give back to our customers and their communities,” Mr Impey said.
“The significant contribution in 2024 was made possible thanks to the Bank’s Community Bank network, corporate partners and donors.
“Funding has been distributed across both regional and urban areas, focussing on the inclusion, empowerment, connection and resilience of communities. In fact, around half of the investments for 2024 have been allocated to rural and regional communities, where we know economic and social challenges are often more pronounced.
“The investments have already started to create a positive impact in a wide range of areas. From local infrastructure upgrades and health programs to educational support, disaster recovery and environmental sustainability efforts, and support of community organisations.
“The last 12-months reflect a joint commitment to building strong, connected, and resilient communities,” Mr Impey said.
Key highlights:
- Over $9 million dedicated to rural and regional community projects, addressing critical needs such as access to healthcare, education, digital and financial inclusion, disaster recovery and resilience and more.
- Over $9 million allocated to urban community grants, supporting initiatives focused on social inclusion, affordable housing, youth programs, and environmental projects.
- 288 first year and another 98 second and third-year educational scholarships funded through our scholarship program – one of the country’s largest private programs
- $2.3 million distributed for natural disaster recovery
- 1,114 local organisations supported
"We are thrilled to see the positive impact of these investments across the country. At Bendigo Bank, we believe that thriving communities are the cornerstone of a strong and resilient nation. Our goal is to support our partners to empower customers and communities with the resources and support they need to shape their futures,” Mr Impey concluded.
To take a look at the 2024 Yearbook, visit: Yearbook | Bendigo Bank
