Voting has now closed for Westfield Local Heroes

We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.

This year Westfield will award 126 grants across Australia and New Zealand totalling $1.25M. Now in its 7th year, the Westfield Local Heroes program will have contributed $8.6M to more than 860 successful Local Hero organisations since it began.

Voting has now closed and the Westfield Local Heroes will be announced 15 October.

Meet our Local Hero finalists

Melissa Holmes

Stepping Out Program

Brave. Inspirational. Kind.

Melissa Holmes is passionate about supporting and advocating for female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. As CEO of Stepping Out, Melissa has revitalised the specialist service to focus on the emotional needs of survivors. By holding a safe space for survivors, risks are mitigated such as social isolation, domestic abuse, homelessness and hospitalisation.

If Melissa is successful in the community vote, the grant would pay for a year’s worth of programs and workshops to support childhood sexual abuse survivors.

Robert Craven

Children’s Tumour Foundation

Loyal. Compassionate. Dedicated.

Robert Craven is a dedicated volunteer for Children's Tumour Foundation (CTF), the only support organisation in Australia for people living with neurofibromatosis. Robert helps wherever he sees the need and switches between helping to organise fundraising events, preparing items for camps and using his many skills to support CTF staff.

If Robert is successful in the community vote, the money will help pay for one of CTF’s children’s camps. The funds would allow 100 children and families with neurofibromatosis to attend.

Rosemary King

St. Paul’s Burwood

Dedicated. Trustworthy. Caring.

Rosemary King dedicates her time to helping feed pensioners and people experiencing homelessness at St Paul’s Burwood Parish Pantry. As a lay minister, she assists approximately 200 people weekly with nutritious food and advocates for those in need. Rosemary works to break down social isolation and build community connections.

If Rosemary is successful in the community vote, the money will be used to purchase food for the pantry, ensuring fewer people go hungry.

Voting is now closed for Westfield Local Heroes.

The successful 2024 Westfield Burwood Local Hero will be announced on 15 October. We congratulate all of our finalists and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community. Thank you for your votes.

If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14