Rail-based transport company Aurizon has announced the latest round of recipients for its Community Giving Fund, which provides grants of up to $20,000 to local projects in education, community safety, environment, and health and wellbeing.
Aurizon distributes the funds biannually and has supported over 650 charities and not-for-profit groups since its establishment in 2011.
This round of funding has supported 23 projects across New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and South Australia.
Aurizon Managing Director and CEO Andrew Harding detailed some of the causes that have been allocated funds in the latest round of recipients.
“We are delighted to support the regions where over 80 per cent of our employees live and work,” Harding says.
“Through our Community Giving Fund, we have the privilege of giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of people in these areas.
“In Queensland, we are delighted to support Batyr Australia by funding the delivery of four youth mental health programs in Townsville. These programs equip young people with the skills and knowledge to care for their mental health and support their peers before reaching a crisis point. By normalising mental health conversations and promoting positive help-seeking behaviours, they aim to empower the youth.
“In New South Wales, we are thrilled to support Newcastle Men’s Shed by funding the construction of a raised platform and ramps at the rear of the shed. This will provide access for people with mobility issues and create a safe area for operating machines. Additionally, part of the funding will be used to install dust extraction pipes and repaint the bathroom facilities.
“In Western Australia, we are delighted to support the Carbon Neutral Charitable Fund by funding the purchase of seedlings, mulch and other materials to launch an urban forest initiative in Usher, Bunbury. This fast-growing native forest will help reduce temperatures, boost biodiversity and create a wildlife corridor, fostering a cooler, greener and more resilient community.
“In the Northern Territory, we are proud to support the Tradeswomen Australia Community Foundation by funding scholarships for women pursuing trade careers in the rail industry. These scholarships will cover essential costs and provide mentoring to reduce financial stress, increase apprenticeship retention and ensure completion. The aim is to help bridge skills shortages in essential trades while promoting diversity, inclusion and long-term career success in the industry.”
A list of the latest Aurizon Community Giving Fund recipients can be found here.
The next round of applications for the fund will open in early 2025.
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