Focus areas
Bank of Melbourne Foundation prioritises funding to support children and young people facing the greatest barriers to reaching their potential. Our focus areas are Inclusive Education and Connection and Participation.
Inclusive Education
Our goal is to uplift child and youth education outcomes by supporting innovative approaches to participation, learning, and transition to further study and employment.
Why education?
We believe education is one of the most powerful ways to create positive change and lasting impact.
Education attainment is an important predictor of future employment, welfare and health prospects – it improves a person’s ability to contribute socially and economically in the community.
However, equal opportunity and quality outcomes are not available for all children and young people, especially those experiencing disadvantage.
Connection and Participation
Our goal is to improve the social and emotional wellbeing of children and young people by supporting engagement in community life.
Why connection and participation?
We believe every child and young person should have the best opportunities to connect with friends, family and the community, participate in activities that build resilience, develop new skills and enrich their lives, and feel they belong.
Connections provide us with happiness, security, support and a sense of purpose, are critical to our identity and important for mental health and wellbeing.
However, we know that poverty, discrimination and disadvantage can make it very difficult for children and young people to participate in community life.