Westpac Foundation's Commitment to Boost Literacy and Numeracy in Australian Primary Schools
Westpac Foundation has announced a new focus and strategic direction for its community and philanthropic investment, aligning all efforts to address the critical issue of education.
1 in 3 Australian children do not meet national benchmarks in reading and maths, a gap that’s even wider in under-resourced communities. Westpac Foundation has identified a need for help in this area, as they believe that when children miss these foundations, the effects last a lifetime.
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.
In response to these statistics and needs, Westpac Foundation will be investing in leading education charities, including Australian Schools Plus, The Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN), and Springboard Trust.
They will also offer new education grants for schools, innovation and collaborations.
- Westpac to invest $3 million over three years in leading education charities
- A new Westpac Foundation grants program focused on education, with $4 million awarded annually
- Westpac Scholars Trust to continue providing $4 million annually in scholarships
