The Andrews Labor Government has today established an independent panel to administer the Bourke Street Fund.
Set up on Sunday, 22 January, the Fund allows for public donations to assist the families most affected by the Bourke Street tragedy.
The Bourke Street Fund Panel will make decisions on how money donated to the Fund should be spent, in consultation with the Victorian Government and with a focus given to the families of the deceased.
The members of the Panel are:
- Mr Ken Lay APM (Chair) – Former Commissioner for Victoria Police
- Ms Carol Schwartz AM – Chair of the Women’s Leadership Institute Australia and prominent business leader
- Ms Wenda Donaldson – Australian Red Cross, Director of Victoria Operations
The Bourke Street Fund has received more than $1,000,000 in donations so far, including $100,000 from each of the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments, as well as $122,250 raised on Monday during the Premier’s Cup.
The Fund will complement compensation and support being provided through the Transport Accident Commission and WorkSafe Victoria.
Donations to the Bourke Street Fund are tax deductible, and can be made by calling 1800 226 226 or via the website:
The Victorian and Commonwealth Governments are working in partnership to ensure the DGR (Deductible Gift Recipient) status of the fund and when complete, will be applied retrospectively.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“To everyone who has made a contribution to the fund – thank you. Your generosity will help the families who have lost so much through this tragedy.”
“By setting up this panel, we’ll make sure the hard-earned money given so generously to this appeal is spent in the best way possible.”
Quotes attributable to Bourke Street Fund Panel Chair Ken Lay
“It is a privilege to have been selected by the Premier to do this incredibly important work.”
“Along with my Panel colleagues, I will work tirelessly to ensure those most affected receive all the help and support they need.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020