MyState Foundation Grant Recipients 2025/2026

The MyState Bank Foundation has today unveiled its 2025/26 grant program, committing $195,000 in funding to support 12 community organisations across Tasmania. The grants aim to create brighter futures for young people state-wide by addressing critical needs and fostering opportunities for growth and development.

This year’s funding includes the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation, which will use the funding to support its ground-breaking research, Helping Preterm Babies Breathe. This initiative aims to give Tasmania’s youngest and most vulnerable the strongest start in life.

Dr. Andrew Marshall, project lead from the University of Tasmania, says there is an urgent need to support vulnerable babies.

“Tasmania has the highest preterm birth rate in the country, with the Royal Hobart Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) caring for around 50 of these vulnerable babies each year,” Dr. Marshall said.

“Every day, babies born before 30 weeks gestation face a silent and terrifying challenge—they stop breathing without warning. These pauses, known as apnoea, can lead to dangerous drops in oxygen levels, affecting brain development and long-term health.

“Currently, the technology used to monitor their breathing is not good enough, missing critical moments when these babies need urgent help. Our researchers are working to develop a breakthrough solution—small, highly sensitive sensors that can detect breathing problems earlier, giving doctors and nurses the chance to intervene before long-term harm is done.

“This safe, reliable, and clinically validated respiratory monitoring system will revolutionise the way we care for preterm babies in Tasmanian NICUs and potentially worldwide.

“The MyState Foundation’s funding of over $9,000 will contribute towards supporting the development phase of this three-year project,” he said.

In addition, the MyState Foundation is continuing to support major Foundation partners JCP Youth and Tassie Mums. The Foundation has also invested $56,800 over three years to deliver the JumpStart housing program in partnership with Home Base.

MyState Bank Managing Director and CEO Brett Morgan highlighted the importance of the grant program, which this year provides funding ranging from $6,000 to $50,000.

“At MyState Bank, we’re deeply committed to investing in the future of Tasmania and we believe supporting successful community groups is the best way to do that,” Mr. Morgan said. “These community groups and programs are doing a fantastic job in making a real difference for vulnerable young Tasmanians.

“We know our support might just be one piece of the puzzle, but even small steps can help young Tasmanians build a better future—and we’re honoured to play a role in that.”

MyState Foundation Chair Bob Gordon emphasised the importance of the grants in supporting both the recipient organisations and the young Tasmanians they serve.

“For more than 20 years, the Foundation has played a meaningful role in supporting Tasmanians in need,” Mr. Gordon said. “This year’s funding comes at an especially important time and will enable a range of organisations to continue their vital work in creating positive change for young people throughout Tasmania.”

Since its inception, the MyState Foundation has awarded over $2.9 million in grants to more than 140 not-for-profit organisations, for 380 initiatives that make a difference in the lives of young Tasmanians.