The QBE Foundation has allocated $600,000 in funding to twelve charitable and community organisations as part of its 2025 annual local grants program.
Each recipient will receive $50,000 to advance projects focused on climate resilience or social inclusion in Australia, New Zealand, or the Pacific region.
This year’s program drew over 300 applications, reflecting ongoing demand for support in these sectors.
In addition to the main categories, the foundation included an Employee Choice stream, enabling QBE staff to nominate charities with which they are personally engaged.
Julie Starley, co-chair of the QBE Foundation, said the initiative is designed to strengthen the work of community organisations.
“Our grants program is one of the ways we help accelerate the work of community organisations creating purposeful, long-term change in the areas that need it most,” she said.
She added that the 12 recipients this year have demonstrated a strong focus on addressing climate-related issues, advancing inclusion, and supporting their communities.
“It’s a privilege to support their efforts and see the difference they’re making,” Starley said.
The grants are distributed across three focus areas:
Organisations awarded under the climate resilience category include:
These groups are working on projects ranging from biodiversity conservation to environmental education.
In the inclusion category, funding was directed to:
These organisations provide services and support to individuals and communities facing barriers to participation.
The Employee Choice category recognised:
This stream allows QBE employees to advocate for organisations they support, strengthening the foundation’s connection to local communities.
In 2024, the QBE Foundation supported 14 organisations, with grants awarded to groups such as Positive Change For Marine Life, Murray Darling Wetlands Group, Karrkad-Kanjdji Trust, and Carbon Neutral Charitable Fund Limited, as well as inclusion-focused organisations like ARMIA Healing the Incurables, Ovis, Autism Spectrum Australia, and Wallara.
The Employee Choice stream also provided funding to Sydney Local Health District – Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation Inc, and Camp Quality – with additional support for DV Safe Phones and SAFE Rehoming.
Applications for the 2026 round of local grants will open early next year.
