About us
Telstra Foundation is Telstra’s philanthropic arm and youth and tech unit. We’re a registered Australian charity and for over two decades, we’ve supported children and young people to thrive online.
Our mission and focus
Our mission is to empower 1 million children & young people to thrive in safe, inclusive digital spaces and to shape their own futures by 2030.
Focus area #1 – Universal access
All children and young people in Australia have equal access to the devices, connectivity, skills, and support needed to thrive in a digital world, and shape their own future access.
Focus area #2 – Meaningful connectivity
All children and young people in Australia are empowered to thrive in safe, inclusive, and enriching digital spaces, and can quickly and easily access evidence-based mental health support, where and when they need it.
We work collaboratively with young people, researchers, for-purpose organisations, educators, parents, and carers to improve the digital future of children and young people across Australia.
Our why
Young Australians are the first generation to “grow up digital,” and their online interactions and digital relationships play an increasingly important role in shaping their sense of belonging, self-esteem and identity – whether at school, at home, at work or on the go.
While technology offers countless benefits to young people, from access to education to the freedom to express themselves, it can also pose challenges and we know some young people are being left behind.
We partner with expert for-purpose organisations that share our goals and want to drive impact; we convene forums to share research and insights and most importantly, we include young people and amplify their voices and help shape the work we do. We also encourage diversity, inclusion and equality by prioritising under-served groups of young people to ensure everyone thrives.
Meet the team
Telstra Foundation brings together a diverse group of individuals, who are experienced in delivering digital outcomes for children and young people.
Board of directors
Established in 2002, Telstra Foundation Ltd is the philanthropic arm of Telstra, and is a registered Australian charity governed by an independent Board. Telstra Foundation Ltd is an independent legal entity, separate from Telstra Corporation Ltd.
The majority of our directors – including the Chair – are independent of Telstra. The Board has established criteria and procedures for allocating grants which it may review and vary from time to time, including any criteria or procedures referred to on this site.
Carmel Mulhern
(She/Her)
Telstra Foundation Chair
Matthew Linnegar
(He/Him)
Chief Executive, Australian Rural Leadership Foundation - Non-Executive Director
Rae Johnston
(She/Her)
Multi Award-Winning STEM Journalist and Broadcaster - Non-Executive Director
Justine Rowe
(She/Her)
Telstra Executive Director
Sarah Anderson
(She/Her)
Telstra Executive Director
Management team
Our management team is responsible for the day-to-day management and operations of Telstra Foundation.
Jackie Coates
(She/Her)
Chief Executive Officer
Alexandra Whitwam
(She/Her)
Youth, Community and Engagement Manager
Kaye North
(She/Her)
Community and Engagement Manager, Code Club Australia
Claire Elliot
(She/Her)
Board Secretary
