About OEF
Funding transformative outdoor experiences that build confidence, resilience, and essential life skills in disadvantaged young Australians.
Our Story
The Outdoor Education Foundation (OEF) was established in 2018 to fund life-enhancing 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, which means all donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible.
The Outdoor Education Foundation believes that universal access to led outdoor experiences in schools is key to producing happy, healthy, and employable young people. However, we recognize that social and economic inequities mean not all young people get the chance to develop these important real-world skills.
That's where we come in. We don't run programs ourselves. Instead, we raise funds and allocate them to schools and youth groups based on highest need and benefit, partnering with experienced outdoor education providers to deliver outstanding programs.
Our Mission
To provide direct relief to disadvantaged young people by funding access to outdoor education programs that build self-worth, confidence, and emotional wellbeing through inclusive camps and activities.
Our Vision
A world where every young person, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to life-enhancing outdoor education experiences that develop the skills they need to thrive.
Our Values
- • Equity and inclusion
- • Youth empowerment
- • Community partnership
- • Evidence-based impact
- • Transparency & accountability
Our Two Key Functions
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, regardless of their economic circumstances.
We Allocate Grants
We allocate funds to schools and youth groups based on highest need and benefit. We work with our delivery partners to support all participants and ensure allocated funds are used most effectively.
Our Delivery Partners
The OEF does not run programs, but we do work closely with our delivery partners to support all participants, create outstanding learning opportunities, and ensure that allocated funds are used most effectively.
These partners are carefully chosen based on their experience, best practice compliance, and connection with our mission. Our delivery partners offer an extensive range of programs that enable young people to engage in authentic yet challenging experiences which build critical "soft skills" transferable to both work and life.
Who We Support
With your support, the Outdoor Education Foundation can broaden access to outdoor education, with a focus on:
Government School Students
In Dropping Off The Edge postcodes
Rural & Regional Youth
Young leaders in regional Australia
Migrants & Refugees
New Australians building connections
Join Us in This Essential Work
Whether through donations, partnerships, or spreading the word, there are many ways to support our mission.