Backing Leaders
Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation Annual Report 2024
CHAIR & CEO MESSAGE
Welcome
Over the past year, through a strategic review, a leadership transition, and ongoing conversations with our partners and communities, we have reflected on what we have learnt and where we can contribute most meaningfully in the years ahead through our grantmaking. Again and again, we have been reminded that lasting change happens when communities are empowered to shape their own futures.
Five years ago, we brought a sharper focus to our grantmaking through our Backing Young People strategy. It built on VFFF's longstanding commitment to rural and regional communities, recognising that young people are not only an important part of their communities today, they are central to their future.
This is why the stories in this report matter. Philanthropy can sometimes be reduced to numbers: how much we granted, how many organisations we supported, or how many people were reached. These measures are important, but they only tell part of the story. Behind every grant is a person, a community, an idea, or an opportunity. The stories throughout this report bring to life the leadership, resilience, and possibility that exists within communities across Australia.
This year, the VFFF Board approved $11.3 million in new grants, with almost 60% supporting rural and regional communities. Our Backing the Future program continued to grow, supporting 17 emerging leaders who are creating opportunities for young people in rural and regional communities across New South Wales and Queensland.
We extend our sincere thanks to the VFFF family-led Grants Committee members for the energy, care, and rigour they bring to their role and we are particularly grateful for their support in welcoming the next generation of Fairfax family members into VFFF's grantmaking processes.
This year also marked the conclusion of our Youth Advisory Group's two-year term. We thank Charlotte, Taje, Gabe, and Elise for their wisdom, honesty, and willingness to challenge our thinking. Their contribution has strengthened our grantmaking, and we look forward to welcoming a new group of young advisors in the year ahead, while Harrison, Keiran, and Sam continue their involvement to provide continuity and help carry forward the group's valuable insights.
Our Board has provided thoughtful stewardship and guidance throughout this period, helping to shape VFFF's next chapter. We are delighted to welcome Lucy Coulson to the VFFF Board. Lucy has quickly become a valued contributor, bringing a thoughtful Queensland perspective and strong commitment to the Foundation's purpose.
We thank our dedicated VFFF team, whose care, professionalism, and commitment make our work possible, and are also grateful to the Cambooya team for their excellent support services.
Looking ahead, our task is not to reinvent what VFFF stands for, but to continue asking how we can do our work better. This has led to a focus on the following priorities for our grantmaking over the next three years. In honouring our Founders’ legacy, we retain our enduring commitment to investing in strong leaders through our Leadership pillar, and supporting young people to explore their Christian faith and values in our Christianity pillar. Our third pillar will continue to back young people to see them thrive in life and community.
After almost 65 years, VFFF's approach continues to evolve, but our commitment to communities remains at its heart. We look forward to what we can learn, and what we can achieve, together in the years ahead, ensuring the Foundation remains both true to its purpose and relevant to future generations of the Fairfax family.
Rosemary Vilgan, Chair
Claire Mannion, CEO
"As I begin my journey as CEO of VFFF, I feel incredibly privileged to lead an organisation shaped by the generosity and values of the Fairfax family for almost 65 years. Having been part of the VFFF team for several years I know that leading VFFF is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I am grateful to the Fairfax family, our Board and our team for the trust and commitment they bring to this work. I look forward to continuing to listen, learn and back people to create the future they want to see."
Claire Mannion
CEO, VFFF
"The past year has been one of gradual change which befits a foundation with our legacy. The Directors and team have shaped a strategy which has a poignant connection to our founder, yet addresses the future with hope and realism."
Rosemary Vilgan
Chair, VFFF
