Telethon 2025: Minderoo Foundation donates $1m to support new purpose-built Foodbank facility

As part of the Telethon weekend, Minderoo has committed $1 million to Telethon beneficiary Foodbank.

Minderoo Foundation will put $1 million towards a new Foodbank WA facility through Telethon this year.

The funding will go toward a new Foodbank centre based in Bunbury’s Dalyellup Beach Estate and will provide essential food relief for families doing it tough in the South West.

Foodbank’s new facility will also offer opportunities for nutrition education, community connection and financial assistance, with two other non-profits set to be co-located on-site.

Youth Focus will offer mental health services for young people and the Financial Wellbeing Collective will help families navigating their finances, creating a true community hub of integrated support.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Minderoo Foundation and Telethon for their generous support of our new Bunbury branch,” Foodbank WA chief executive Kate O’Hara said.

“This contribution is more than bricks and mortar — it’s about giving the growing number children and families in the South West access to nutritious food, education and wraparound support.”

Minderoo Foundation chief executive John Hartman said the Foodbank Bunbury project reflected both Minderoo and Telethon’s commitment to delivering lasting change for the children and families of WA, particularly through the regions.

“Foodbank WA plays a vital role in supporting families across our State, especially those facing food insecurity,” Mr Hartman said.

“Minderoo Foundation is proud to have stood alongside Telethon for many years, backing research and programs that deliver real impact where it’s needed most,” Mr Hartman said.

Minderoo will also match community donations for an hour during the live broadcast.

Ms O’Hara said it was the spirit of giving an working together that goes the distance for supporting those in need.