Westfield Local Heroes: A Financial Review award-winning program

In recognition of the Westfield Local Heroes program and its social impact, Scentre Group (owner and operator of Westfield destinations in Australia and New Zealand) has been named as this year’s winner of the Financial Review Sustainability Leaders in the Retail, hospitality, tourism and entertainment category.

Westfield Local Heroes was developed as a recognition, grants and partnerships program that shines the spotlight on individuals in Australia and New Zealand who make a positive impact on their local community or environment.

“We know every community has hundreds of people doing extraordinary work, but it’s often unseen beyond their immediate circle or area of impact,” National Community Manager, Pam Wilson said.

Image credit: Dads Community

Westfield Local Heroes is part of Scentre Group’s holistic community engagement approach, that empowers each of the 42 Westfield destinations to deliver locally relevant community initiatives and partnerships.

Since its inception in 2018, the program has granted $9.8 million to over 990 community organisations, and in 2026, up to $AUD1.25 million will be provided in grants. Alumni from the program can be offered long-term leased spaces, community events and promotional activations, strengthening partnerships within local communities.

Every year, community members are invited to nominate their heroes, and we select three finalists for each Westfield destination to go through to the community vote. The successful hero for each of our 42 Westfield destinations is awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation or group they represent, and each finalist receives a $5,000 grant.

The recipients of the 2026 Westfield Local Heroes program will be announced on October 20. For more information visit www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes or www.westfield.co.nz/local-heroes.