We forge partnerships with organisations working to strengthen communities and tackle inequality across Africa, Australia and the world.
Guided by our mission and values, we support long term partnerships, collaborative action, and practical solutions that shift systems and expand opportunity. Based in Sydney, we focus on the issues and places where our contribution can make a meaningful difference.
We believe resilient communities are built through equity, creativity, and local knowledge. Our work is grounded in listening, trust, and a commitment to learning as we go.
At the Judith Neilson Foundation, our team brings together a broad range of talents and backgrounds to guide our work in line with our shared goals and values. Building on Judith Neilson’s legacy of philanthropic giving, we draw on extensive experience in international development, innovative program management, strategic philanthropy, and social justice to collaborate with our trusted partners and networks.
We work across Africa, Australia and globally through our Innovation portfolio, supporting efforts that build stronger systems, expand opportunity, and shift power to communities.
Strengthening public health systems, inclusive economies, and African leadership.
Supporting women and girls experiencing systemic disadvantage through justice, safety and economic equity.
Backing bold, practical ideas that rethink how systems work and who they serve.
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about our work.
Since the Judith Neilson Foundation began its work, we have championed people, places, and ideas driving meaningful change.
Raised in Zimbabwe, Judith Neilson has invested significantly in the arts, journalism, social justice, and various charities in both Australia and Africa.
Her work has focused the Foundation’s efforts on supporting vulnerable communities in Sub-Saharan Africa and Australia, and on backing innovative solutions for development challenges worldwide.
Her contributions have been recognised through her appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of New South Wales. To learn more about Judith Neilson’s projects in the arts, architecture, and more, please visit.
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