ANZ donates $100,000 to support Afghanistan refugees, matches staff contributions

ANZ today announced it will donate $100,000 to Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia and has committed a range of services to help resettle refugees who have fled Afghanistan in recent weeks.

In addition to its donation, ANZ is able to offer a range of services to assist with resettlement efforts, including:

• Provision of banking services
• Financial inclusion support
• Employment opportunities with ANZ and other local employers
• Staff engagement

ANZ Chief Executive Officer Shayne Elliott said: “We want to play our role in helping to welcome and resettle Afghan refugees as they seek a safe future for themselves and their families.

“Migrants and refugees have made a significant contribution to Australia over many years and we have seen that reflected through our customers and our employees. Welcoming new Afghan refugees will help add to that legacy and build a better community for the future.

“There are many great organisations providing vital services and assistance to Afghan refugees at this time and we are proud to partner with them on these important efforts.”

Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia CEO Lisa Button said: “ANZ’s donation will contribute to a unique community support program to provide Afghan refugees with social support and practical help from individuals in their local community.

“Our program coordinates groups of five or more everyday Australians to come together as a local support group for a single refugee household during their first six to 12 months in the country. This can be done independently or under the banner of a community club, school, church or even a business,” Ms Button said.

ANZ will also encourage employees to offer support and will double-match donations to community partners, the Australian Red Cross, the Brotherhood of St Laurence, and World Vision Australia through its workplace giving program to support the humanitarian aid and assistance they’re providing in Afghanistan and to new Afghan arrivals in Australia.

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