Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/222330
WELCOME Welcome to Industry Focus: Social Sector, Westpac's magazine for the Social Sector This magazine has been designed with our customers in mind, to provide insights into some of the important issues currently impacting the sector. The last five years has seen constant change as a result of shifting economic conditions and extreme weather events, which has placed greater demand on many organisations who support people in times of need. Combine this with the ongoing overhaul of the disability and education sectors and the implementation of the ACNC, the future of which remains unclear following recent statements by the federal government. As Australia's first bank and oldest company, we believe it's our duty to help the most vulnerable and disadvantaged Australians when they need it most. Indeed, we have a long history and a rich tradition of helping those in need. We were the first bank to create a relief fund to support communities impacted by devastating floods; the first bank to establish programs for workplace giving; and the first bank to send employees to Indigenous communities to assist these communities with financial management. Through the Westpac Foundation Community Grants program, we're helping build a brighter future for our local communities by distributing $540,000 to support smaller, less well-funded community organisations with big ideas for social change. Through the Westpac Community Leaders Awards, we're recognising and celebrating leaders of Not for Profit organisations who have gone above and beyond to make a sustained contribution to the Social Sector. We remain deeply committed to the Australian Not for Profit sector and can proudly say that we have a national team of dedicated specialists to service the sector. The sole aim of our staff and bankers located around Australia is to deliver better banking experiences for our Social Sector customers. We trust you enjoy this edition of Industry Focus: Social Sector. Barry Thatcher National Head of Education and Social Sector Banking Westpac Retail and Business Banking Social Sector • Issue 1 1