Support The Award

Message from the Chairman

The Honourable Larry Anthony

Larry Anthony

The Award in Australia had over 33,000 young Australians taking part in the last financial year. This makes us the largest structured youth development program in the country. There is an undefeatable spirit within The Duke of Ed family. This rests not only with our Participants but also in all those who volunteer their time as Coordinators, Assessors and Board members. It is also present in our loyal staff across the States and Territories and in the many parents and community members who support this incredible program. This spirit is the glue that keeps The Duke of Ed together, and drives our growth strategy and contemporary approach to connecting with young people in the 21st Century.

The Award today is reaching into many corners of Australian society. Traditionally schools have been the bedrock for participation, but today we see the Duke of Ed operating everywhere. From Indigenous to remote and rural communities; from prisons to hospitals to new refugee communities; from schools to universities to disability groups; and from voluntary organisations to corporations, The Duke of Ed is truly a leading achievement Award for all young Australians.

As we move into our 50th Anniversary in 2012, our ambition is to continue growing The Award with a focus on regional and remote areas of each State and Territory.

The last financial year has seen our fundraising income increase by 59%. This is a testament to the generosity of the individuals, private companies and foundations that support us. Considering National office receives no financial assistance from any Australian Government and very little from the corporate sector, we rely substantially on this generosity.

The Ambassadors program which was launched in 2009, has now reached over 22 individuals. It is our hope that in the next financial year we will grow this to 50 Ambassadors and that this program will start to provide a stable revenue base for the years ahead.

Without raising funds from individuals and organisations who want to invest in youth development it would be extremely difficult to carry out our work and make The Award available to more young people in these areas. Our supporters are instrumental in helping us widen the opportunities available to young people by take the Duke of Ed into new communities.

By involving our supporters more closely in what we do, and using their skills, expertise and influence, we are more focused on where we have the biggest impact on youth development.

If you are keen to learn more about our Ambassador, Charter for Business or Sponsorship Program please contact Angela Skates, Events and Sponsorship Director, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award on 02 8280 8600 or email angela.skates@dukeofed.com.au.

We appreciate you sharing our ambition in ensuring all young Australians, regardless of their location or circumstance, can access The Award Program and reach their full potential.

Kind Regards,

Larry Anthony Signature