The James N. Kirby Foundation is a private ancillary fund established by the late Sir James Kirby with an initial investment of $2 million in 1967, a time when major philanthropic initiatives by businessmen in Australia were extremely rare. Since its inception, the family has continued to contribute funds and to date has donated nearly $35 million across a broad charitable spectrum.
In establishing the Foundation, Sir James’ hoped “It will assist young Australians to reach top international standards in business and management. Naturally I am going to lean towards technical education grants because I have always been involved in secondary industry.” He also wanted to improve Australia’s communal and national interests, therefore it is the Foundation’s goal to ensure our support makes a significant impact on both small and large Australian charitable organisations.
As the Foundation approaches its sixth decade, the third generation of Kirbys are proudly embracing Sir James’ philanthropic philosophies. Together with the board we oversee a breadth of grants that impact not only towards the future educational and technical development of young Australians, but also on the health and welfare of many Australians in need as well as The Arts and The Environment.
A charitable man, Sir James Kirby was determined to establish a Foundation that would play some part in helping Australian industry and all Australians who have given him such opportunities in his lifetime…read more
Each year, The Foundation distributes just over $1,000,000 across four key categories. A detailed summary of each recipient for the last two financial years, and the funding granted is available for your perusal…read more