If ever there was a year that highlighted the importance of rallying together as a community, 2020 was it. 

While there’s still a few weeks left until we ring in the New Year, we’re taking a look back at some moments of hope and success from our community initiatives in 2020.  

Health and medical research

Health has been on everyone’s mind this year. From beating cancer to tackling COVID-19, we’ve supported world-leading research in 2020.

We were proud to donate $1 million to the University of Queensland to help accelerate Australian research into a Coronavirus vaccine as well as $500,000 to the Mater Foundation to understand the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on expectant parents and their unborn babies. We also made major contributions to The Zero Childhood Cancer program and the Children’s Brain Cancer Centre — two Australian-first research initiatives bringing new hope to children and their families living with paediatric cancer.

As a whole, our health and research partners were unwavering in their incredible work, even as they adapted to challenging new circumstances. From providing support services to families in hospital, taking steps towards new treatments for childhood cancer, or providing vital medical equipment, it’s been a joy to support them in their success.  

Disaster relief

It’s unlikely we’ll ever forget the devastating scenes and stories from the Black Summer Bushfires. We joined many others across the country and the world in sending support for the relief and recovery efforts that became the focus for our enduring communities. 

Our Bushfire Benefit Draw raised $1.8 million with the money shared among eight state and national organisations. Australians are tough, but sometimes our sunburnt country puts us through our paces, and we’re committed to being there when it does. 

Education

It was a record-breaking year for the Daniel Morcombe Foundation as it continued its work educating Aussie kids and families on personal safety. We furthered our support with a $300,000 donation and were thrilled when the Foundation recorded its biggest ever Day for Daniel event. More than 4,800 schools and early learning centres registered for the national day of action, with over 1.5 million people participating. 

Education across the country looked different this year and it was no different for our partners. Not only did the Daniel Morcombe Foundation adapt to digital programs, our partners at the Stars Foundation innovated its education and support programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls. 

Through Golden Casket, SA Lotteries, NSW Lotteries, and Tatts— Australia’s Official Lotteries reach across the country. Thanks to our players, our partners, our network of over 3800 local retailers, and everyone across the country who’s dreamed of what’s possible, together we’ve delivered over $1.4 billion* to important community initiatives in 2020. 

When Australia dreams, we all win.

*State Lottery Taxes FY20 Australia-wide (ex. WA)