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Annual Giving
$6.2M

About

Variety The Children's Charity Tent 75 South Australia is the South Australian state branch of Variety Australia, a peak body children's charity operating since 1975 in Australia and 1984 in SA. The organization supports sick, disadvantaged, and disabled children through grants, scholarships, experiences, and programs, having helped over 2 million Australian children and families since its inception.

Tips for Applicants

As a state branch of a national organization, applicants should ensure they are applying to the correct state/territory office. Applications appear to be accepted year-round through the Variety SA website. Given the focus on tangible outcomes and direct child benefit, applications should clearly demonstrate the specific need, how the support will improve the child's quality of life, and why other options are unavailable. The organization values tangible grants (equipment, modifications) over general funding. Families can apply directly, and the organization works with schools, hospitals, and community organizations as referral pathways.

Giving Philosophy

Variety believes every child deserves the chance to dream, achieve and thrive regardless of their circumstances. The organization takes a holistic approach to child welfare, providing both tangible items (like Sunshine Coaches, mobility equipment, sensory devices) and intangible benefits (experiences, scholarships). Their theory of change centers on removing barriers that prevent children from participating fully in life, whether those are financial, physical, or experiential. They act as a safety net when other support systems fail, focusing on immediate needs while also investing in long-term outcomes through education scholarships.

Notable Grants

$250,000 raised from first 'Bash' event in 1985
Over 1,300 Sunshine Coaches delivered nationally
Over $700 million raised to assist Australian children over 50 years
Over 2 million children and families helped in Australia

ACNC Financial History

YearGrants GivenRevenueTotal AssetsNet Assets
FY2023
$6.2M
$8.9M$14.1M$7.6M
FY2022
$4.8M
$7.7M$12.5M$7.9M
FY2021
$2.9M
$8.0M$11.0M$7.9M
FY2020
$2.5M
$4.6M$7.2M$4.8M
FY2019
$3.8M
$6.2M$6.8M$4.6M
FY2018
$3.9M
$6.3M$7.0M$4.7M
FY2017
$3.6M
$6.5M$6.8M$4.9M
7yr total$27.6MSource: ACNC Annual Information Statements

Programs (from website)

Grants Program

Provides funding for equipment, modifications, and services for children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage, or living with disability

Scholarships Program

Educational scholarships supporting children in need to pursue their academic and creative potential

Experiences Program

Provides memorable experiences for children who may otherwise miss out on typical childhood activities

Get Help / Apply for Assistance

General application pathway for families seeking support from Variety SA

Focus Areas

communityhealthdisabilityyoutheducation
Geographic
AU-SA
Recipients
individualschoolnfpcommunity org

Financial Details

Source of Wealth
Variety Australia was founded by theatre owners and showmen (variety performers) in 1927, originally in Pittsburgh, USA. The organization raises funds through diverse channels including corporate partnerships, individual donations, workplace giving programs, bequests, event fundraising (including the iconic 'Bash' motoring events since 1985), and the McHappy Day partnership with McDonald's since 1991. The SA branch specifically raises funds within South Australia through these mechanisms.
Parent Company
Variety Australia
Revenue Sources
retail, media, inherited

Board & Leadership

ACNC
Bronte Ayres
board member
ACNC
Christopher Zeitz
board member
ACNC
James Wigzell
board member
ACNC
Jennifer McKay
board member
ACNC
Mark Mcgill
public officer
ACNC
Morgan Griffin
officeholder
ACNC
Peter Cochrane
board member
ACNC
Peter de Cure
board member
ACNC
ROBERT KERIN
board member
ACNC
Salli Tanner
board member
ACNC
Sally Paech
board member
ACNC
Linked from structured person roles rather than unstructured foundation summary text.

Data Sources

Profile quality: medium
Foundation profile updated: 4 May 2026 (4 days ago)
Website scan updated: 5 May 2026 (2 days ago)
Website pages scraped: 5
Added: 5 March 2026 (64 days ago)
View on ACNC Register →