The Smith Family
About
The Smith Family is an Australian philanthropic foundation dedicated to overcoming educational inequality caused by poverty. They provide long-term educational support, including financial assistance, mentorship, and targeted programs, to disadvantaged children and young people across Australia to help them create better futures.
Tips for Applicants
Applicants (individuals/families seeking support) should demonstrate clear educational disadvantage and a commitment to their child's learning. They should understand that support is long-term and multi-faceted, focusing on school attendance, academic progression, and post-school engagement in study or work. Emphasise how their support aligns with The Smith Family's mission to overcome educational inequality through a comprehensive, partnership-based approach.
Giving Philosophy
The Smith Family believes education is the most powerful change agent and focuses on deepening its impact through personalised, evidence-based practice, data, and digital solutions. They partner with students, families, schools, and community partners to deliver programs that improve educational outcomes, with an ambition to significantly increase their reach to disadvantaged children, young people, and their parents/carers. Their strategy includes commitments to child safety, reconciliation, diversity, and environmental sustainability.
Giving History
ACNC Financial History
| Year | Grants Given | Revenue | Total Assets | Net Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2023 | $34.2M | $155.8M | $145.0M | $100.7M |
| FY2022 | $33.5M | $145.9M | $139.2M | $103.8M |
| FY2021 | $29.1M | $154.4M | $126.1M | $103.4M |
| FY2020 | $28.6M | $145.3M | $99.5M | $72.8M |
| FY2019 | $37.8M | $127.1M | $67.3M | $44.5M |
| FY2018 | $33.6M | $113.9M | $64.5M | $42.5M |
| FY2017 | $32.3M | $117.2M | $63.8M | $39.6M |
| 7yr total | $229.1M | Source: ACNC Annual Information Statements | ||
Programs (from website)
Learning for Life Scholarship Program
Provides financial assistance for school essentials (uniforms, textbooks, digital tools, excursions), support from a Family Partnerships Coordinator, and access to various short programs to improve literacy, numeracy, digital literacy, mentoring, and career-related opportunities for disadvantaged children and young people.
Digital Learning Essentials Program
Aims to ensure all Learning for Life students are digitally included by providing access to reliable devices (laptops/tablets), internet connectivity (e.g., via Optus Donate Your Data, School Student Broadband Initiative), and technical support for educational purposes.
student2student Program
A peer-to-peer reading program where older students support younger students to improve their reading skills.