Local heroes, big impact

A total of 126 community groups across Australia and New Zealand will share in $1.25 million in grants distributed under the 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program.

Now in its seventh year, the initiative is designed to shine a light on people nominated by the public for making a positive impact on their local community or the environment.

Forty-two Local Heroes - one from each Westfield shopping centre location - secured grants of $20,000 for their organisations following a community vote to nominate candidates and determine the winners. Finalists will each receive $5,000.

The winners ranged from a volunteer at a Melbourne soup kitchen to the founder of a Brisbane-based Muslim charity foundation.

Lisa Milkvoci, food coordinator at Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support in Narre Warren, Melbourne volunteers up to six days a week, sources donations, organises deliveries and offers comfort to guests.

She wouldn't have it any other way.

"I simply love Transit. It's more than just a place – it's a genuine community," she said.

Milkvoci said being named a Westfield Local Hero meant a lot to her.

"It brought tears to my eyes - not because of the recognition for myself, but because of what this grant will mean for Transit,” she said.

"My heart was so full of excitement and joy for our entire team and the incredible people we serve. This place means the world to me, and knowing that this recognition would bring more support, resources, and hope to our community was overwhelming."

Milkvoci said Transit would use the $20,000 grant to purchase a new commercial stove and oven.

"Our current one is pretty old and unreliable, and it’s been causing a lot of headaches for us. With a new one, we’ll be able to cook more efficiently and with way less stress for our volunteers, which means we can get meals out faster and easier."

The extra cash will also help cover rising food costs, helping Transit to meet increasing demand from as many as 1,500 cash-strapped families each week.

"With this extra funding, we can buy more fresh food and groceries, allowing us to reach more people who need it,” said Milkvoci.

"(But) it’s not just about providing food—it’s about giving families healthy, nourishing meals, and this grant will help us do that on a larger scale."

Pam Wilson, national community experience manager at Scentre Group (owner of 42 Westfield shopping centres) said that since its launch in 2018, the Westfield Local Heroes program has contributed $8.6 million to more than 860 community organisations.

“Our heroes across Australia are making a difference in their communities through their tireless work in areas such as domestic violence support, emergency aid, and youth development,” said Wilson.

"Their dedication is truly remarkable, and we're honoured to support their impactful initiatives.

“As we round out the seventh year of the program, we continue to be amazed by the incredible contributions these individuals make, and we’re excited to shine a light on their achievements.”