Skye Ward

Rabobank’s Rabo Community Fund, in collaboration with agricultural education and storytelling brand ‘George the Farmer’, has awarded book packs – totalling 1,400 books – to schools and early learning centres across the country to mark this year’s Book Week.

The specialist food and agribusiness bank – in partnership with George the Farmer – has awarded 100 book packs, each containing the full collection of 14 Australian-made George the Farmer storybooks, to primary schools, kindergartens, pre-schools, early learning centres and childcare centres around Australia.

Rabobank community engagement manager Skye Ward said the initiative, now in its fifth year, had again attracted strong interest from schools and early learning centres, with almost 180 applications received from across Australia.

“Each year we have been blown away by the response from educational institutions across the country, from large state schools in the inner city to one-teacher schools in rural localities, showing the demand for engaging resources that help children learn where their food and fibre comes from,” Ms Ward said.

“The George the Farmer books are very relatable to those students living on the land, while it gives those living in more urban areas a greater understanding and appreciation of agriculture.

“George the Farmer’s goal of connecting the next generation to the land, food and agriculture fits perfectly with one of the Rabo Community Fund’s key aims to help bridge the urban-rural divide.”

Ms Ward said the book packs had been delivered to learning institutions across the country, from Bowen Hills in inner-city Brisbane to Port Headland, in regional Western Australia, in time for Book Week celebrations, which commenced on Saturday (August 22).

Ms Ward said a new element added to the initiative this year is the ‘Meet the Author’ experience, with one educational institution in each state selected to have the opportunity to connect with George the Farmer founder and author Simone Kain, via a live online session.

“The opportunity for children to meet Simone and ask questions will hopefully spark a greater interest in the people, places and processes that go into producing the food and fibre they use every day,” she said.

The Auburn Primary School, in the mid-north of South Australia, received a George the Farmer book pack as part of the Book Week celebrations. School principal Skye Irwin said the school is incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the 2026 George the Farmer Book Competition.

“Literacy is such a critical component of developing lifelong learners, and filling our library with books that our students can connect with helps us foster a deep and lasting love of reading,” Ms Irwin said.

“Nestled in the Clare Valley, amongst the vines, crops and farming communities, agriculture is an important part of our students’ lives. A high percentage of our students come from farming families, while many others are connected to agriculture through their family’s work as mechanics, tradespeople and other important roles that support our local farming community.

“The wonderful collection of George the Farmer books has therefore been a very welcomed addition to our library. They provide our students with stories and characters that reflect their own experiences and interests, while encouraging curiosity and a love of learning.

“We are incredibly thankful for this generous contribution to our school library and for supporting our students to see themselves, their families and their community represented in the books they read.”

George the Farmer

George the Farmer began as an interactive story app in 2015. The brand has since grown to include virtual-reality experiences, music, live performances and paddock-to-plate videos on YouTube and ABC iView, as well as free, curriculum-aligned educational resources.

Ms Kain said Book Week had become one of her favourite times of the year.

“It is such a highlight to hear of little George the Farmers and Ruby Farmers dressed up in classrooms across Australia – it makes me incredibly proud,” she said. “It is really rewarding to see these characters and agricultural themes helping foster an enthusiasm for reading among young learners.”

Ms Kain said finding the right book could transform a child’s reading experience.

“Stories that reflect a child’s own world can make reading more meaningful. George the Farmer was created to provide curriculum-aligned resources for all children – not just those growing up on farms. The curriculum-aligned resources alone have helped educate 750,000 children across classrooms in Australia about food and fibre, and we’ve reached over two million children through the whole platform (books, videos, performances and resources),” she said.

“Our collaboration with Rabobank has played an important role in supporting literacy and agricultural education. Through this partnership, more than 8,000 George the Farmer books have been distributed to schools, helping strengthen children’s connection to regional communities and deepen their understanding of food and fibre.”

Rabo Community Fund

Ms Ward said the Book Week initiative has been a long-term partnership between the Rabo Community Fund and George the Farmer.

With a dedicated pool of funding for national and local initiatives, the Rabo Community Fund supports meaningful community projects. Since its launch in 2021, the fund has invested more than $4 million in national and local initiatives to help address key agribusiness and rural community challenges.

“As a global cooperative, founded by farmers, Rabobank has a long history of community engagement and now, thanks to our Rabo Community Fund, we can make an even bigger impact in the communities where our farming clients live,” Ms Ward said.

“From supporting health checks in remote areas to providing agri-educational resources for schools and hosting succession planning and financial skills workshops for farmers, our impact has been far-reaching.

“The George the Farmer partnership is a great example of how the fund can support practical, engaging initiatives that help strengthen the connection between rural and urban communities.”

A full list of educational institutions awarded George the Farmer book packs can be found here.

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Shaneen Marshall

Zurich Financial Services Australia (Zurich) has announced, for the third year in a row, it will replace its logo on the front of Melbourne Football Club (MFC) AFL run out t-shirts with the names of individuals impacted by breast cancer.

In collaboration with Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and in support of ‘Play 4 BCNA’, the names of 45 individuals will be displayed on the t-shirts during the AFL Round 22 Pink Lady Match on 8 August.

Zurich also announced a $20,000 donation to BCNA to assist with funding essential support services, resources and advocacy programs for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

Cancer was the second most common cause for a life insurance claim at Zurich in 2025*, representing more than one in five claims and resulting in nearly $470 million in claims payments. Breast cancer accounted for approximately one in seven of these cancer claims.

Shaneen Marshall, Head of Consumer Channel & Capability, Zurich said: “For three years running, Zurich has been proud to use its logo space to support BCNA and honour Australians and their families impacted by breast cancer.”

“We know from our own claims data just how many Australians are impacted by breast cancer. This initiative allows us to meaningfully recognise those whose lives have been changed and raise important funds to support essential resources and services,” Ms Marshall said.

Dan Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, MFC said: “Our Pink Lady Match is an opportunity to recognise the thousands of Australians impacted by breast cancer and use the platform of football to raise awareness for a cause that touches so many lives.

“Having our players wear the names of people affected by breast cancer creates a powerful connection between the game and the community, reminding us exactly who we’re playing for. We’re incredibly grateful to Zurich for continuing to support this initiative and helping ensure the stories of those affected remain at the heart of this year’s Pink Lady Match,” Mr Taylor said.

Kirsten Pilatti, Chief Executive Officer, BCNA said: “Breast Cancer Network Australia is, once again, deeply grateful for Zurich’s incredible generosity – both through their financial support and their decision to dedicate their logo space on the MFC warm-up tops to honour all those affected by breast cancer.”

“This powerful gesture provides vital funding for BCNA’s essential support services while serving as a meaningful tribute to all who have faced a diagnosis – including those living with metastatic breast cancer and the loved ones who have passed away,” Ms Pilatti said.

This year, a select number of players will display the names of individuals they personally nominated, including Tom McDonald, who will wear the name of Amber Whalan – a BCNA Community Champion and Pink Lady Match ambassador in both 2019 and 2025, who passed away in October 2025.

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Julie Berry

Financial services professionals across Australia are being encouraged to help grassroots causes access vital funding, with nominations open for Future2’s 2026 ‘Make the Difference Grants Program’.

Unlike many grant programs, community groups cannot apply for funding directly. Instead, nominations must be endorsed by those working within the financial services profession, giving financial advisers, accountants, mortgage brokers, risk advisers and other industry professionals the opportunity to support causes they know are making a real difference in the community.

Each year, Future2’s Make the Difference Grants Program provides funding to grassroots initiatives that improve financial wellbeing for Australians. Past grants have supported a range of practical programs, including financial literacy initiatives for women escaping domestic and family violence, financial education programs for school-aged children, and programs supporting people facing homelessness.

Grants support practical programs across four key funding pillars:

• Financial Wellbeing for Young Australians
• Financial Wellbeing for Australians in Need
• Financial Wellbeing for Women
• Financial Wellbeing for Regional and Remote Communities

Since its establishment in 2007, Future2 has distributed more than $1.9 million through 192 grants.

Looking ahead, Future2 is working towards an ambitious goal: improving the financial wellbeing of 20,000 Australians by 2030.

Future2 Chair, Julie Berry, said the grants program was an example of the financial services profession making a positive impact in communities across Australia.

“Every day, financial services professionals help build stronger financial futures for their clients. The Make the Difference Grants Program provides an opportunity to extend that impact even further by supporting grassroots causes that are helping people overcome financial disadvantage, build confidence and create brighter futures within their communities.

“We know there are incredible groups doing life-changing work across Australia. If you’re a financial services professional who has seen that impact firsthand, we encourage you to nominate them. Your nomination could help unlock funding that allows their work to reach even more people.”

Nominations close on 20 August 2026, with successful grant recipients to be announced later this year.

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Matt Lawler

Licensing and business services partner, Akumin, and AMP have partnered to raise over $180,000 for Australia’s homeless community, with donations and pledges still being accepted until July 31.

Last Thursday, Akumin Chief Executive Officer, Matt Lawler, and AMP Group Executive of the North Platform, Edwina Maloney, participated in the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout, spending a night on the streets to increase awareness of Australia’s homelessness crisis and raise critical funds for essential services including accommodation, food and counselling.

Established in 2006, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout is a national fundraising event that invites government, business and community leaders to sleep rough to support people in need.

Lawler and Maloney were joined by a number of practice principals and senior leaders from across Akumin and the broader Entireti group, which includes Fortnum, Personal Financial Services and Entireti Alliances.

Funds raised by Akumin, AMP and North for the CEO Sleepout were supported by the AMP Foundation, which has been helping communities in need for more than 30 years.

Lawler said the Vinnies CEO Sleepout was one of many important causes supported by Akumin and provided an opportunity for the group to give back to society.

“We are passionate about supporting society’s most vulnerable and needy, and I was extremely happy to share this experience with a number of our practices in Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide,” he said.

“Edwina’s participation and the support of her team have been tremendous as we partner to raise much-needed funds for Australians experiencing homelessness.”

Maloney said AMP and the North team were delighted to continue their partnership with Akumin and take part in the CEO Sleepout to raise awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness. “AMP Foundation doubles AMP employee giving, and the North teams participation in the CEO Sleepout is another important opportunity for us to show our support for individuals and families doing it tough,” she said.

Donations can be made to the Akumin and AMP Team until July 31.

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Hanna Ebeling

The Federal budget has come under criticism for not updating Deductable Gift Recipient (DGR) status to include more charities.

The DGR acts as a bottleneck that disproportionately affects smaller, less established, community-scale organisations. However, most charities face a bigger, systemic issue that sees them fall through the cracks of the investment sector, according to the Australian Charities Report – 12th Edition. It revealed that small or extra small charities make up 60%[1] of all charities, yet account for just 1.4%^[1] of the sector’s revenue.

“The funds are there, charity sector revenue outpaced the economy in 20251. The performance is there, with impact investing products increasing in value eight-fold^[2]  in the last five years. What isn’t in place is the adoption of the right funding and capability building model to derisk investment and meet grant conditions,” says impact lender, Sefa’s CEO, Hanna Ebeling.

“Community scale organisations are seen as “too small” or “too risky” for large investors on one hand, while on the other, they are held to government grant conditions they cannot meet,” Ms Ebeling adds.

Sefa says the solution is ‘Impact Stacking’ – an integrated approach that combines flexible impact-first finance, deep advisory & capability building, and sequenced capital across government, philanthropy and private sectors. This ensures organisations get the right funding at the right time.

It’s a model that works, with an average revenue growth of 20 per cent across the organisations Sefa works with.

Sefa believes that Impact Stacking has the power to transform impact investing and is committing to unlock $500m in capital by 2030 to prove it, adds Ms Ebeling:

“Impact Stacking opens community scale organisations to institutional investment in a way that hasn’t been done before. We’ve seen it work and now we need the investment community to get on board,” says Ms Ebeling.

“Too many impact organisations doing vital work on-the-ground can’t get the capital they need. Charities are under increasing financial pressures driven by higher demand as Australians struggle with the cost-of-living, as well as higher operating costs. In 2025, sector expenses rose by 8.5 per cent1. We need to find a solution for these vital services now.”

“We set up Sefa to prove that you can back purpose and performance together. The Commonwealth Government stepped in with $10 million, which we matched with another $10 million to start an evergreen fund connecting philanthropy and mainstream finance. Today we have provided a 16x return on the government’s original outlay. Our mission now is to change the way investment flows to all community-scale organisations to unlock their social impact and investment potential,” Ms Ebeling concludes.

———-

Notes:
[1] Australian Charities and Non-Profits Commission – Australian Charities Report – 12th Edition – Australian Charities & Non-profits Commission: Australian Charities Report – 12th Edition
[2] Impact Investing Australia – Benchmarking Impact report 2025 Impact Investing Australia: Benchmarking Impact report 2025

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Julie Berry

Future2 Foundation supported more than 1,200 people in 2025 and awarded 12 grants to programs assisting vulnerable and under-served groups, including women experiencing financial hardship, young people, and First Nations communities, according to its latest Impact Report.

The report highlights Future2’s work in delivering real, measurable impact in communities across Australia. In total, $128,842 in funding was distributed in November 2024 to programs across multiple states and communities nationwide.

Future2 is the charitable foundation of the financial services profession. Through its Make the Difference! Grants Program, it funds grassroots, community-led initiatives that improve financial wellbeing for Australians in need.

Julie Berry CFP, chair of the Future2 Foundation, said it is inspiring to see how the grants are making a tangible impact at a local community level.

“Our aim is to support programs that are practical and outcomes-focused, helping people build financial capability, confidence and independence. The Impact Report demonstrates how our grants program supports projects that are credible, meaningful, and truly making a difference in the community.

“One such program is Kids in Philanthropy’s ‘Pitch for Change’, a hands-on initiative that builds financial literacy in young Australians through a philanthropy lens. In 2025, with a $10,000 grant from Future2, the program engaged 262 Melbourne school students aged 5 to 12. These students supported four charities and reached more than 2,200 people in need through their own fundraising and giving initiatives.

“Another example is MoneyMob Talkabout, which provides financial literacy training in remote First Nations communities. With additional funding of $7,500 contributed by AIA Australia, the program was delivered in East Arnhem Land, further extending its impact. The training is culturally tailored and addresses knowledge gaps not typically covered in school or through family networks.

“In addition, several programs funded in 2024 support women experiencing financial hardship, including those impacted by domestic and family violence. For example, Financial Superwomen Online Workshops help female survivors of violence build financial skills, confidence and independence.

“All of these programs are making a real difference to the lives and financial futures of Australians in need.

“Financial literacy is a pathway to long-term wellbeing and resilience, and Future2 funds impactful, measurable initiatives that strengthen financial capability across the community.

“It is also encouraging to see the financial services industry come together to support meaningful change, as a collective effort driving real community impact.

“Our partners play a key role in supporting this work, both in raising funds and delivering them to deserving programs. We are especially grateful to our strategic partner AIA Australia, as well as HUB24, Vital Business Partners (VBP), Spark Financial Group, Sufficient Funds, Collective Resourcing, and Milford.

“In addition, our community partners – Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA), SMSF Association, Financial Services Council, Institute of Public Accountants, Boutique Financial Planning Principals Association, and Ensombl – provide invaluable support in helping us connect with the financial services community,” Ms Berry said.

Applications for the next round of program funding will open on 9 July 2026 and close on 20 August 2026.

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Jodi Kennedy

Advances in medical science benefit everyone and this UNESCO World Health Day on 7 April, Equity Trustees is highlighting the important role structured giving plays in supporting Australia’s medical researchers and health care providers in delivering better health outcomes for all.

Charitable giving remains a vital source of funding in parts of the health sector – including medical research, disability services, healthcare access, mental health and wellbeing, and medical support services.

Equity Trustees facilitated $101.9 million in charitable grants and bequests directed to the for-purpose sector in 2025, with 39% of that funding going to support medical research and health initiatives.

“Philanthropic giving is a key element in the funding mix allowing medical researchers and health providers to continue their important work. We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference to health outcomes in our community,” said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees.

One powerful example of this is the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program, which combines the strength of 28 philanthropic trusts to help fuel breakthroughs in medical research. The Program has committed $7 million over five years to the Translational Research Institute Foundation, Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, and Sydney Health Partners, to support their groundbreaking medical research and advance the future of Australian healthcare. This adds to $10 million already committed to the Program since its establishment in 2017.

“As the trustee of more than 1200 philanthropic funds, Equity Trustees can align trusts with similar goals and help to coordinate their giving. This magnifies their impact, while continuing to honour the intent of every client who entrusts us with their legacy,” Ms Kennedy said.

“By facilitating funding through these partnerships with leading research organisations, we’re helping to accelerate medical discoveries and advancements in healthcare that can improve lives for generations to come.”

Ms Kennedy said ongoing philanthropic support through giving structures such as the philanthropic funds, trusts and foundations that contribute to the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program delivers much greater impact than making one-off contributions.

“Establishing a private or public giving fund gives families the opportunity to dedicate charitable capital, receive immediate tax benefits, and provide ongoing support to eligible charities. This approach to giving is sustainable and creates enduring value for initiatives – whether that’s backing breakthroughs in medical science, or fostering developments in areas such as education, the environment, or community development,” Ms Kennedy said.

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Across 12 months of significant growth and impact, the Foundation provided a record $570,836 to take its total giving to almost $1.5 million since its first grant in 2020.

The real-life power of this is outlined in the Foundation’s 2025 Impact Report which was released on Wednesday.

“Our charity partners are the ones creating real change every day, and the work they are doing is amazing,” said Paul Olds, People First Bank Foundation Executive Officer. “They are literally changing people’s lives for the better, day in and day out.”

This work includes placing life-saving phones in the hands of domestic violence survivors, mentoring young people at critical crossroads, helping women rebuild their lives after homelessness, improving literacy in remote communities, and providing stability for children forced to leave their homes.

People First Bank employees also provided significant support throughout the year, contributing 766 hours of volunteering along with fundraising, matched giving and community initiatives.

“By supporting these charities, we’re helping ensure more people can access safety, opportunity and the support they need during some very difficult times,” Paul said. “The stories shared throughout this Impact Report remind us of the powerful difference we can make when we work together.”

In 2025, the Foundation’s key charity partners were DV Safe Phone, Youth Insearch, Protea Place, Backpacks 4 SA Kids, Raise Foundation, and the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation.

The People First Bank Foundation’s work was further strengthened through its four Sub-Funds — Alpine Community Project, Clewley Campbell Charity Community Fund, Weis Community Fund and Women & Change — each helping support charities tackling social challenges and building stronger communities.

Looking ahead, the People First Bank Foundation’s impact will only increase as it continues to grow strongly. In 2024-25, the financial support provided to charities increased by 23%, hours volunteered with charity partners lifted 84% and its total asset base rose by a very healthy 17%.

“Growth and long-term sustainability means more communities can benefit in the years to come, with the Foundation focused on strengthening relationships with charity partners, growing supporter engagement, and helping to create long lasting positive impacts for people in need in the communities we serve,” Paul said.

Read the report.

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Jodi Kennedy

As the world marks UNESCO’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, Equity Trustees is supporting the work of Australian Investing in Women (AIIW) to promote gender-wise giving.

Research by AIIW demonstrates how gender equality leads to safer societies, more productive economies and a fairer world for all of us. When we invest in women, communities thrive, economies strengthen and progress accelerates for everyone

Australia ranked 24^th in the world for gender equality but there are many critical areas in which charitable giving remains a vital source of funding to support women’s contributions, in areas such as scientific research, including medical fields in Australia where women comprise 52% of the research workforce[1].

“Philanthropic giving plays a key role in ensuring female scientists and researchers have the resources and opportunities they need to excel,: said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees. “We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference in the scientific community.”

One standout example is the Dyson Bequest, managed by Equity Trustees. The Dyson Bequest Fellowship at the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research is a five-year commitment that invests directly in the development of women scientists and medical researchers.

This initiative not only supports individual career advancement but also contributes to improved health outcomes for communities everywhere.

The Dyson Bequest marked its 25^th year in 2025, with two generations of the family carrying on the legacy. Rose Gilder, daughter of Janie Dyson who founded the Bequest with her husband Bruce Dyson, works closely with John Dyson, nephew of Bruce and Janie Dyson, to lead the granting.

“We’ve met some extraordinary women doing life-changing work. I’d like to think we’ve played a small part in helping them get there,” Rose Gilder said, reflecting on the impact the Bequest is having on creating pathways for women in science.

Ms Kennedy said structured giving, like the Dyson Bequest, which is stewarded through the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation, extends well beyond one-off donations.

“Giving funds, whether private or public funds, allow families to set aside charitable capital, gain immediate tax deductions, actively grow their funds and financially support eligible charities over the long term,” she said.

“This sustainable approach to philanthropy ensures a lasting impact – whether that’s supporting initiatives that advance gender equity in science, or making a difference in areas including education, the environment, or community development.”

Equity Trustees is responsible for distributing more than $100 million of philanthropic money to our community annually. Stewarding more than $360 million, the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation empowers individuals, families and organisations across Australia to practice structured giving during their lifetime.

This International Women’s Day, take the next step towards lasting change – discover how structured giving can support gender equity and the causes closest to your heart here.

ENDS

MEDIA INQUIRIES

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Anthony Miller

Westpac has announced a new strategic direction for its community and philanthropic investment, aligning all efforts to address the critical issue of education.

Under this new approach, the Westpac, St.George, BankSA and Bank of Melbourne Foundations will combine resources and direct investment towards maths and reading programs in Australian primary schools.

Westpac CEO Anthony Miller says improving literacy and numeracy is one of the nation’s most pressing challenges and will unlock opportunities for a better future.

“When we invest in education, we’re investing in Australia’s future,” Miller said.

“Today, one in three Australian kids is not meeting the benchmarks we’ve set in numeracy and literacy¹. This gap almost doubles in some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities.

“Every child deserves the chance to unlock their potential, no matter where they live or what challenges they face, and that starts with the basics – being able to read and do maths.

“We’re refining the focus of Westpac Foundation and uniting all our philanthropic and community investment programs to drive a greater impact and scale.”

Investing in leading education charities

Through the new program, Westpac will invest $3 million to partner with three leading education charities working to deliver systemic change in schools:

1. Australian Schools Plus. A not-for-profit organisation founded following a recommendation in the first Gonski review, driving equity in education so all young Australians have the opportunity to thrive. Westpac will work with Schools Plus to deliver a new coaching model proven to support school leaders to improve students’ maths and reading outcomes.
2. The Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN). A not-for-profit organisation dedicated to connecting students from under-resourced communities with mentors to enhance their educational and career opportunities. Westpac will work with ABCN to develop a new mentoring program, connecting school principals and business mentors to build leadership capacity in schools.
3. Springboard Trust. An organisation that delivers mentoring and leadership programs for school principals in New Zealand’s education sector. Similar mentoring opportunities will be provided to Westpac NZ employees.

New education grants

In addition, the Westpac Foundation will launch a new, single grants program to support education charities working with local schools and organisations helping to keep children engaged and able to learn. The grants will launch in 2026 and are expected to award approximately $4 million annually through:

• School Grants:  $1 million per year for three years via a principal partner to schools in need.
• Innovation Grants: Eight multi-year grants for local organisations, totalling $400,000 per year.
• Collaboration Grants: Two multi-year grants to drive long-term impact, totalling $200,000 per year across two partner organisations.

The new focus of the Foundation will complement the existing work supporting education that’s underway through the Westpac Scholars Trust, which has a $100 million commitment to award 100 scholarships each year to university students, researchers and social innovators.

Sherrill Nixon, CEO, Australian Schools Plus said: “This investment is an exciting step forward in addressing one of Australia’s most pressing education challenges. By focusing on literacy and numeracy, this partnership will support schools to deliver meaningful and lasting improvements for students.”

Phil Gardner, CEO, Australian Business and Community Network said: “Strong school leadership is an effective way to strengthen literacy and numeracy outcomes for students. When principals are supported by experienced business mentors, they can create the conditions for students to thrive and build the foundational skills that support learning now and into the future.”

Westpac Foundation will appoint former NSW Education Minister Adrian Piccoli to its Board to help ensure the new strategy makes a credible contribution to the sector.

Mr Piccoli said: “Significant and persistent disparities remain in education outcomes for Australian children facing social, geographic and educational disadvantage. Narrowing and ultimately closing this gap is key to increased future productivity and prosperity for this country.”

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