Variety, the Children’s Charity, proudly marks 50 years of supporting children and families who are sick, experiencing disadvantaged, or living with a disability across Australia. Since its inception in 1975, Variety has positively impacted more than two million children and their families.
For five decades, Variety has worked tirelessly to support children by providing funding for mobility equipment, therapy, medical services, and educational resources. Thanks to the generosity of donors, corporate partners, and dedicated volunteers, the charity continues to create brighter futures for Australian children.
See our stories here!
Heath, NSW
Heath Francis lost his right arm in a tragic accident at just seven years old, but he didn’t let that stop him from chasing big dreams.
Heath realised that to compete at the highest level, he needed a specialised prosthetic arm and was given a grant from Variety – helping him win three gold medals at the Sydney 2000 Paralympics!
Levi, VIC
Levi is a fourteen-year-old, who loves getting outdoors to ride his bike and scooter, is living with ASD, ADHD, and anxiety.
With support from Variety Victoria, Levi was matched with Finn-Pickles, giving him the confidence and companionship he needed to thrive.
Puff, TAS
At just 7-years-old, Kate’s world changed forever when her mother, Mandi, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep. Left to navigate life without his partner, Kate’s father, Lindsay, found himself raising Kate and his 12-year-old son on his own at only 35 years of age.
For Kate, TasBash shines a light of happiness, no matter how thick the fog may be, and is the ultimate way of giving back.
Matthew, QLD
Matthew is a remarkable 9-year-old from Douglas, located southwest of Townsville. Living with Cerebral Palsy and being nonverbal, he communicates through sign language.
Through Variety Queensland, Matthew was able to receive assistance in achieving his athletic dreams.
Goldie, NSW
While Kelly was waiting for the NDIS to approve her daughter Goldie’s first wheelchair, she was encouraged to apply for a Variety We Move grant to help cover the cost of modifying the family car.
Lily, QLD
Lily is a lively and cheeky 6-year-old songbird who lives with congenital retinal dystrophy.
Lily discovered a love for music at an early age, and with the help of Variety she blossomed into a confident performer!
Layla-Grace, VIC
Layla-Grace is a courageous and spirited 6-year-old living with Cerebral Palsy who loves the outdoors and visiting new places.
Through Variety Victoria, Layla was provided with the equipment that gave her the freedom and independence she deserves and needs to thrive.
Logan, TAS
Logan has a smile that lights up the room and an eagerness to be part of the action. He was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Pitt Hopkins Syndrome (PTHS).
Through Variety Tasmania, Logan was able to get the support he needed.
Kiera, QLD
Keira is a happy, chirpy little girl who loves to have adventures, climb and run–all the things doctors never thought she’d be able to do.
Through Variety Queensland, she was able to get the extra support equipment she needed.
Sam, TAS
Sam faced significant challenges with sitting, balancing and upright movement tasks.
Through Variety Tasmania Sam was granted with specialised equipment that helped physical development, allowing him to gain confidence and continue to thrive.
Timothy and Elijah, TAS
Timothy & Elijah are identical twins, diagnosed with hypotonic cerebral palsy, epileptic encephalopathy and global development delay.
Through Variety Tasmania, Timothy and Elijah were provided a grant to assist in mobility equipment that gave them a new-found view of the world.
Prahb, NT
Prahb is a bright and curious child from the Northern Territory who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 2.
Through Variety Northern Territory, Prahb was able to get the assistance he needed to connect with those around him in a way he never could before.
Owen, NT
With support from Variety Northern Territory, Owen participated in a programme that played a key role in shaping his future in leadership.
Tom, QLD
Tom was awarded a Variety Heart Scholarship from Variety Queensland to support his dream of playing volleyball.
Steven, QLD
Steven is a sweet and enthusiastic child living with Cerebral Palsy.
Variety Queensland provided a grant for mobility equipment tailored to Steven’s needs, giving him independence, and ensuring he is able to participate in social activities at school.
Serena, QLD
Serena has a rare genetic eye condition called Aniridia, which results in the underdevelopment of the iris in both eyes.
Through Variety Queensland, Serena received specialized equipment that’s opened up new opportunities – enabling her to participate in more activities and better experience the world around her.
Jarrabah, QLD
Jarrabah is an 8 year old boy who suffers from severe Bronchiectasis, a chronic lung condition where the airways become damaged and widened, leading to frequent infections and other respiratory problems.
Through Variety Queensland, Jarrabah was granted freedom and independence.