Kinetic opens Moving Communities Fund across Australia and New Zealand
- Kinetic has committed $150,000 in total support across Australia and New Zealand
- The fund launches in New Zealand for the first time, with grants of up to $10,000 available for grassroots community initiatives
Australasia’s largest bus operator, Kinetic, has opened the second round of its Moving Communities Fund in Australia and launched the program for the first time in New Zealand, offering vital support to community organisations facing rising costs and increased demand.
Kinetic has committed $150,000 to the fund with equal investment across Australia and New Zealand, offering grants of up to $10,000, plus in-kind support, to not-for-profits, sporting clubs, and schools making a difference in communities where Kinetic operates.
From youth mentoring and inclusive sport to food relief and homelessness support, the fund helps scale the work of organisations responding to real needs at the grassroots level.
"This fund is about showing up for the people who show up for others," said Michael Sewards, Kinetic Group CEO.
"As a company that connects people every day, we see it as our responsibility — and privilege — to back those building stronger, more connected communities on both sides of the Tasman."
The fund provides one-off grants of up to $10,000, as well as in-kind support such as free travel, volunteer time or promotional space. It supports organisations that:
- Champion youth and disadvantaged groups
- Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion
- Address pressing local needs through non-political, community-based solutions
- Align with Kinetic's commitment to social and environmental sustainability
Since launching in 2024, the Moving Communities Fund has supported 18 grassroots projects across regional and metro Australia, including youth mentoring, food relief and local transport initiatives. The program delivers practical support to communities often missed by traditional funding.
Matthew Campbell, Kinetic Managing Director (Australia), said the second year of the program builds on strong foundations following its first round in Australia.
"We've had a fantastic first year with the Moving Communities Fund across Australia, supporting organisations across the country addressing very real community challenges," he said.
"This second round builds on those relationships and allows us to go even deeper in backing the groups doing incredible work on the ground.
“Whether it's $1,000 to help a regional footy team get to their next competition or larger support for a youth program facing tough times, we want to continue showing up for those who show up for their communities every day."
Calum Haslop, Kinetic Managing Director (New Zealand), said expanding the program to New Zealand reflects Kinetic's commitment to making a meaningful impact across the Tasman.
"We're proud of the great relationships we’ve built with community partners across New Zealand, and launching the Moving Communities Fund here feels like a natural next step in making an even bigger, more meaningful impact," he said.
"Through the Fund, we’re committed to supporting frontline solutions to real challenges facing New Zealand communities.
“We're excited to hear from groups doing the work on the ground, from supporting a local not-for-profit tackling challenges like homelessness to helping local rugby teams get to their next competition."
Applications are now open at www.wearekinetic.com/community and close July 31. Successful recipients will be announced in late August.
