30 June 2025
PRESS RELEASE | THE FUNDING NETWORK
Communities across Australia have united behind the belief that equity is built from the ground up, collectively raising more than $296,550 through The Funding Network’s (TFN) recent Equity and Inclusion events. This generosity directly empowers grassroots organisations dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers, addressing deep-rooted inequalities, and creating meaningful opportunities for more than 4,093 Australians experiencing disadvantage. These critical funds provide essential seed investment, ensuring innovative, community-driven solutions can flourish across the country.
Globally, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has become a critical priority, as profound disparities rooted in structural inequalities continue to persist worldwide. Inequities in access to resources, opportunities, and support systems disproportionately affect marginalised groups, reinforcing cycles of disadvantage.
Kristen Lark, CEO of TFN, underscores why collective giving in this space is so crucial; “Equity isn’t achieved by accident – it's built through intentional collective action. When communities unite, every contribution amplifies the impact. The generosity we’ve seen across these events demonstrates our shared belief in creating a fairer, more inclusive society, one where everyone can thrive.”
Funding grassroots initiatives is imperative to dismantle these barriers, create equitable opportunities, and foster sustainable change from the ground up. TFN is committed to amplifying the voices and programs of organisations working tirelessly to promote fairness, dignity, and equal access for all Australians.
Nicola Stokes, CEO of TFN event and funding partner AMP Foundation, articulated why supporting TFN’s approach is pivotal for Australia’s social sector:
“TFN uniquely translates compassion into practical, tangible impacts, reshaping the very nature of grassroots philanthropy in Australia. By partnering with visionary community leaders, TFN removes barriers and empowers innovative, scalable solutions where bold ideas flourish and communities benefit profoundly.”
The funding raised will ignite transformative change, allowing each organisation to scale programs, expand their reach, and provide life-changing support to thousands.
Donna Lyon, CEO of Left Write Hook, described the profound impact this funding has on the marginalised women and gender-diverse individuals supported through her program:
“Real transformation happens when people feel genuinely seen, heard and supported. This funding means we can offer trauma-informed boxing and creative writing workshops, empowering participants not just to survive, but to reclaim their identities and voices.”
For Simone Allan and Gabrielle Morrissey from the Women’s Resilience Centre, the funding represents a lifeline for women historically excluded from formal support networks. “This generosity is transformative for women in the ‘missing majority’ – those who otherwise slip through the cracks. TFN’s community has ensured these women now have critical access to tools and resources to break cycles of abuse and begin anew.”
Kinda Flaha from You Belong Australia emphasised how community generosity translates into meaningful, human connection for refugee and migrant families:
“For people starting life anew in Australia, this isn’t just financial assistance – it’s an affirmation of belonging. With this support, our Good Neighbours program will create genuine friendships, confidence, and hope, welcoming newly arrived families into communities that truly embrace them.”
Melbourne supporters pledged a remarkable $112,000. This support will directly enhance lives through programs such as:
The Big Umbrella Foundation: $30,500 to introduce innovative, scalable food relief using community vending machines across Victoria.
Left Write Hook: $43,000 to deliver trauma-informed boxing and creative writing workshops empowering marginalised women and gender-diverse individuals in Moorabbin.
About Time Media: $38,500 to amplify incarcerated voices by expanding Australia’s only national prison newspaper.
In Brisbane, a generous total of $93,650 was pledged, providing direct support for:
Project:herSELF: $30,150 to empower incarcerated women with practical tools for successful community reintegration.
You Belong Australia: $30,500 for expanding the Good Neighbours program, enhancing connection, confidence, and belonging for refugees and migrants.
Sheltered by Grace: $33,000 towards holistic recovery programs supporting lasting independence for people experiencing homelessness.
Sydney’s event raised $90,900, dedicated to impactful programs:
Women's Resilience Centre: $30,500 to provide trauma-informed healing and empowerment for women.
Remote OpShop Project: $32,100 to empower remote First Nations communities by fostering sustainable, community-led employment and economic development.
Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Cooperative: $28,300 to strengthen community bonds through intergenerational programs and essential social services.
Through these Equity and Inclusion events, Australians have done more than give generously; they have embraced their collective power to drive lasting social change. By directly impacting thousands of lives today, these initiatives sow seeds for a more equitable Australia tomorrow.
Learn more about TFN’s Equity and Inclusion impact area