Bendigo Bank is proud to announce its partnership with Benefit Bendigo, a new initiative dedicated to delivering impactful grants to support the greater Bendigo community and surrounds.
Through Benefit Bendigo, Bendigo Bank has created a clear and accessible funding pathway, in which new and existing customers will direct funds to empower local not-for-profit organisations to deliver essential projects, having already directed $43,000 to a variety of grassroots groups.
The initiative ensures that local organisations have the resources they need to thrive and enhance the services they provide to the community, with initial beneficiaries already using funds to make a tangible difference across the region:
- The Bendigo Woodturners: A $5,000 grant has enabled the club to purchase a new woodworking jointer. This crucial piece of equipment will enhance craftsmanship and precision for its 75 members, which range in age from 17 to 90 years young, including an increasing number of female participants.
Bendigo Woodturners Grounds Committee & Safety Manager, Jeff Wiley, said that the new jointer that had been purchased for the group was already proving to be an asset.
“The Woodturners assist the community on a number of endeavours including the Bendigo Dragon Museum and more recently, assisting with fundraising for Bendigo Health, so grants like this make it possible to continue to do great work in and around Bendigo.”
- Bendigo East Swimming Club: A $12,000 grant will fund the installation of removable Platypus Pool Steps, significantly improving safe and easy pool access for swimmers of all abilities and ages.
Bendigo East’s Pool Manager, Leigh Nolan said that the new steps were going to be of great benefit to any swimmers with accesibility issues.
“Regrettably we’ve had swimmers have to stop coming to the pool because they can’t get in and out, however this terrific grant will be able to allow them to come back and utilise the poolwhich is fantastic,” he said.
- The Old Church on the Hill: This vibrant community hub received a $2,000 grant to purchase a new display fridge and food warmer. A portion of the funds will also be used to source fresh, seasonal ingredients from local businesses, further supporting the community ecosystem.
Old Church on the Hill Co CEO Rose Vincent said the organisation is heavily involved in supprting the community and the fund wil assist in the many ideas and inititiaves they support.
“It’s a fantastic boost for us and it will help us do a lot, including strengthening our community pantry which supports our regional producers and lots of our local families which is wonderful.”
Residents in and around Bendigo can directly support these vital community organisations simply by choosing Bendigo Bank for their banking needs. By visiting a local branch and linking an eligible account, new and existing customers can make a tangible difference locally that will benefit Bendigo.
Applications for Benefit Bendigo grants are now open.Visit benefitbendigo.com.au to apply.
Bendigo Bank’s local impact
Bendigo Bank is a proud, community focused organisation whose regional roots stretch back more than 160 years, and today, the Bank’s commitment to regional Australia is as strong as ever.
As one of the largest employers in the Bendigo region, Bendigo Bank is Australia's only ASX200 listed company with its headquarters based in a regional city, and has the country’s second-largest regional branch network.
Bendigo Bank’s annual investment in the Bendigo community continues to be significant, and through partnerships including Benefit Bendigo, BE.Bendigo, Bendigo Spirit and Bendigo Pride Festival, is set to exceed $250,000 in FY26.
