Role

The Foundation is a response to changing needs within the Diocese. The Foundation was established in 1986 to raise funds to assist the Bishop fund the pastoral needs of the Diocese of Ballarat. The faith and generosity of earlier generations endowed us with churches, schools, presbyteries and other facilities. The present generation is faced with the challenge of providing services to the people of the Diocese amidst its changing demographic.

Goals of the Foundation

To financially assist the Diocese in its mission to grow Christ’s kingdom here on earth and the charitable works of the Diocese, and to provide for relief, support and comfort of those suffering from disadvantage within the Diocese: from unemployment; low income; age; physical or mental disability; language difficulties; or social or economic isolation.

The Foundation has its own rules, constitution and board of management; and operates as a distinct entity from general diocesan finances.  It has grown and now holds net assets of $11.1m as at December 2019.

Donations

The Foundation relies on donations to continue to build its investment reserve to fund its activities. You can assist by making a donation (all donations, regardless of the amount, are gratefully received); through a pledge (individuals or families can choose to commit to a pledge of a chosen amount on a yearly basis, or for a set period of time); or a bequest via your will.

Donations to the Bishop’s Charitable Fund are tax-deductible.

Membership

Mr Stephen Bigarelli (Chairperson), Bishop Paul Bird CSsR, Mr Pat Mcowan, Mr Adrian Tinetti, Ms Juanita Bongiorno, Ms Georgia Yanner and Ms Lucy Darcy.

Meetings

The Foundation meets four times per annum.

Foundation Grants Forms

Following are the application forms to apply for grants from the Foundation.  An acquittal form must be submitted at the conclusion of the project.

2025 – School Community Improvement Grants

The Catholic Diocese of Ballarat Foundation, incorporating the Ballarat Catholic Bishop’s Charitable Fund (“Foundation”) will make funding available to six Catholic Primary Schools for new projects that aid in the improvement of the welfare of their community within the Diocese of Ballarat.

Up to $5,000 will be made available, per project, delivered during 2025. Any DOBCEL primary school within the diocese can apply for the grant through the grant process, as outlined below.

Grants will be awarded to the six schools within the diocese that best meet the criteria for community improvement that show impactful support toward the mission and objectives of the Foundation. This includes, but not limited to, providing relief, comfort and support for those suffering disadvantage within the Diocese.

All proposals will be assessed and considered at a meeting of the Foundation on November 28, 2024, with successful applicants being notified in early December 2024 and funds delivered in February 2025.

Grant applications will close on November 15,  2024. Initial queries or questions in relation to the grant process or grant documentation, can be directed to the Foundation Secretary via email, foundation@ballarat.catholic.org.au.

Contact Executive Officer

Mr Ross Wheatland
Diocesan Business Manager
PO Box 576
BALLARAT  VIC  3353

Ph: (03) 5337 7126
Email: Foundation