Stockland supports bushfire affected communities with $500,000 donation

In support of the many people and communities affected by the devastating bushfires across Australia, Stockland has pledged a donation of $500,000 to support the relief, recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Stockland Managing Director and CEO Mark Steinert said: “Like all Australians, we are devastated to witness the impact of the bushfires on so many communities and animals across our country, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, their home or business, and to everyone experiencing the effects of the fires.

“The toll this is taking on people’s livelihoods, their health and wellbeing, our environment, animals and businesses cannot be underestimated, and we acknowledge the incredible efforts of everyone involved in managing this unprecedented situation.

“Our $500,000 donation will go towards the Foundation for Regional and Rural Renewal (FRRR) and other charity organisations assisting with the immediate relief effort in affected communities, and contribute towards funding the significant recovery and rebuilding efforts which will be required by communities over the coming years.”

Stockland also continues to support a number of immediate and long term initiatives to support relief and rebuilding efforts, including:

• Dollar-for-dollar matched employee giving to bushfire disaster support organisations for people and wildlife
• Providing free space for our nominated charities at our retail town centres to support their fundraising efforts
• In affected communities we will be providing community spaces for services such as counselling and small business support on an ongoing basis
• Supporting the rebuilding of affected communities through our community grants program
• Free digital advertising space across Stockland’s network of in-centre screens to raise awareness of bushfire appeals
• Supporting Stockland employees who are assisting with voluntary firefighting efforts with additional paid leave (extending paid leave from 10 days to 20 days)
• Extending emergency leave provisions for impacted employees.

Mr Steinert continued: “Over the coming weeks we will also consider other initiatives where, in addition to our initial cash donation, Stockland assets or resources could be used to accelerate recovery efforts and help affected communities get back on their feet more quickly.

“We are incredibly grateful for the tireless work of the country and rural fire services across Australia and for their ongoing professionalism, communication and dedication to community safety in extremely difficult circumstances. We also sincerely thank the many volunteers and people working in government, emergency services, relief and support organisations for their ongoing commitment to managing this incredibly difficult situation.”