This year was a significant year for the Don Dunstan Foundation, as we celebrated our 25th birthday and planned the next phase in our work. And there is much work to do, as our state, our nation and the world face huge political and policy challenges.
This year we developed a new strategic plan. From 2025, our focus areas will include climate justice, Aboriginal empowerment, housing and homelessness, the arts and civic society. We’ll also continue to promote Don Dunstan’s legacy. Next year, marks the 50th anniversary of one of his government’s most significant achievements – the historic decriminalisation of homosexuality.
Our approach on all of these issues will be to influence policy by developing evidence-based ideas, building consensus and advocating for change that makes South Australia a fairer place.
We’ll have a new website in the first part of 2025 to make it easier for our community to engage with our work.
Looking back on 2024, the Lowitja O’Donoghue Oration was a highlight. This was the first Oration after Dr O’Donoghue’s death, and it was a privilege to honour her life and legacy. A compelling oration delivered by Professor Tom Calma AO was aptly titled “Looking Back to Look Forward: Lessons from the past to influence actions of the future.”
Our Inaugural Housing Symposium brought together key stakeholders to address critical housing challenges in South Australia.
This year’s Raise a Glass Event doubled as both our usual annual celebration of the end of the six o’clock swill, but also our 25th anniversary party. The event featured an address by Attorney-General Kyam Maher and was a reminder of how Don’s reforms continue to shape South Australia.
We continued our support for the arts by awarding the Don Dunstan Foundation Emerging Artist Prize at OUR MOB and the SALA Don Dunstan Foundation Award. These awards recognise and support talented artists who are making a significant contribution to the cultural landscape.
This is just a taste of what we’ve achieved this year. None of it would have been possible without the support of donors, volunteers, interns and partners, as well as our dedicated Committee of Management. Thanks to everyone.
Enjoy the holidays and we’ll be back in touch in the new year.
