Banksia Medical Centre Foundation

The Banksia Medical Centre Foundation is a newly established, not-for-profit initiative created to support healthier, more connected communities across Geelong and surrounding regions. The Foundation reflects Banksia Medical Centre’s long-standing commitment to community wellbeing, extending our impact beyond clinical care into education, prevention, and inclusive health promotion.

Operating as a health promotion charity, the Foundation focuses on practical, community-led initiatives that improve health literacy, access to care, and social connection.

Our Purpose

The Banksia Medical Centre Foundation was established to:

Promote the prevention and management of disease through community education and health programs
Support initiatives that improve physical, mental, and social wellbeing
Increase access to health information and services for underserved communities, including culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups and people with disabilities
Collaborate with health professionals, educators, and community organisations to address modifiable risk factors for chronic disease
Foster innovation in community health delivery through pilot programs and outreach initiatives

These purposes guide all activities and funding decisions of the Foundation

Our Vision & Mission

Vision
To inspire and empower healthier communities through education, innovation, and inclusive health promotion events.

Mission
To deliver impactful, community-led health education and engagement initiatives, beginning with the Health Festival Geelong model and expanding to other communities over time

What We Do

The Foundation supports and delivers a range of community-focused programs designed to improve health awareness, connection, and wellbeing.

Current & Flagship Initiatives

Health Festival Geelong
An annual community event offering free health checks, screenings, workshops, food demonstrations, and wellness talks. The festival brings together healthcare providers, community organisations, and residents in an inclusive and accessible setting.

Geelong Community Christmas Lunch
A long-running, well-known community event held on Christmas Day, fostering connection, inclusion, and support for individuals and families during the festive season.

Future Initiatives

As the Foundation grows, planned initiatives include:

Mobile Health Literacy Team – delivering health education and screenings to schools, community groups, and regional centres
Lego Therapy & Wellness Workshops – supporting neurodivergent adults and individuals recovering from Long COVID or cognitive fatigue
Mini-Grants Program – providing funding support for local community groups to deliver health and wellbeing projects
Mental Health & Wellbeing Events – promoting wellness through art, sport, and cultural activities

Governance & Accountability

The Banksia Medical Centre Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors with expertise in health, education, governance, and community engagement. The Board oversees strategy, compliance, and responsible use of funds.
The Foundation operates on a not-for-profit basis, with all income and assets applied solely towards its charitable purposes. No profits are distributed to members or directors.

Financial reporting and governance are maintained in accordance with ACNC standards, with annual reporting and transparency measures in place

Partnerships & Community Support

The Foundation works in collaboration with community organisations, local councils, schools, healthcare providers, and cultural groups. Through these partnerships, we aim to reach communities where barriers to health knowledge and access may exist.

Support from partners, sponsors, and donors enables the Foundation to expand its reach and deliver meaningful, locally relevant programs.

Get Involved

There are many ways to support the work of the Banksia Medical Centre Foundation:

Partner with us on community health initiatives
Sponsor or support Foundation events
Participate in or attend Foundation programs
Learn more about upcoming projects and impact

Further information about involvement opportunities will be shared as the Foundation continues to grow.

Our Commitment to the Community

The Banksia Medical Centre Foundation is committed to strengthening community health through education, collaboration, and innovation. By working alongside local communities, we aim to create sustainable, positive health outcomes that extend well beyond the clinic setting.

The Banksia Medical Centre Foundation is operated as a not-for-profit health promotion charity. Information on this page is intended to provide general information about the Foundation and does not replace individual medical advice.