Funding Life-Changing Outdoor Experiences
The Outdoor Education Foundation provides grants to support disadvantaged young people to access transformative outdoor education programs that build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills.
Our Mission
Established in 2018, the Outdoor Education Foundation funds life-enhancing outdoor experiences for young people who, for reasons of economic, social, or geographic disadvantage, do not have access to outdoor education programs.
We are a registered charity with DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status. We don't run programs ourselves—instead, we partner with experienced outdoor education providers to ensure disadvantaged young people can access programs that build resilience, leadership, and essential life skills.
Why This Matters
Mental Health
Over 80% of Australian educators report that supporting student wellbeing is their number one challenge. Research shows that outdoor education programs significantly reduce anxiety, increase connection to school and peers, and improve overall mental health.
Employability Skills
45% of employers report concerns about school leavers' self-management and organisational skills. Outdoor education builds independence, resilience, leadership, communication, and problem-solving—skills that will be essential as two-thirds of all jobs become people-skill intensive by 2030.
How We Work
We Raise Funds
We raise funds from donors, sponsors, and supporters who share our belief that every young person deserves access to transformative outdoor experiences.
We Allocate Grants
We allocate funds to schools and youth groups based on highest need and benefit, ensuring grants reach disadvantaged young people who need them most.
Our Delivery Partners
We work with carefully selected outdoor education providers who share our mission and have demonstrated experience, best-practice compliance, and commitment to creating outstanding learning opportunities for all participants.
Our Programs in Action
"When my daughter set out on the expedition, she was 16 years old and totally lacking in confidence and self-worth. She had been severely bullied at school and had contemplated suicide quite a few times. She returned as a fierce and determined young woman ready to take on the world and win."
Make a Difference Today
Your support helps us provide life-changing outdoor education experiences to thousands of people each year.