News

Helen Macpherson Smith Trust was delighted to meet recipients of the Future Rural Leaders Scholarship Fund at its 75th Anniversary celebration at Government House in June 2026, recognising their achievements and strong connection to regional communities.

Helen Macpherson Smith Trust marked a significant milestone on Tuesday 9 June 2026, celebrating 75 years of philanthropic impact with a reception at Government House, Melbourne.

Investing in Rural Community Futures Victoria (IRCF) aims to strengthen the capacity and resilience of the Victorian communities of Colac, Maryborough and Swan Hill over five years. As the IRCF program develops, its capacity to create sustained impact within local communities grows.

Rural Women Online offers a comprehensive suite of practical resources aimed at enhancing digital literacy. These accessible, free, and high-quality resources provide detailed instructions, how-to-guides, and tips for online safety.

Helen Macpherson Smith Trust is one of four Victorian philanthropic organisations that have joined forces in a unique $5 million partnership with the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) which will strengthen the capacity and resilience of communities over the next five years.

Following nine years of service to the Trust, including six as Chair of the Investment Committee and three as the first female Chair, Catherine Walter retires.

The Bushfire Recovery Fund was an important and timely initiative offering support to local community organisations working in challenging economic, emotional, and ecological conditions, and giving them the capacity to lead projects aimed at longer-term recovery from the 2019-20 bushfires.

The Banksia Gardens Community Services - Northern Centre of Excellence in School Engagement program, is building the collective capacity of local schools and partner agencies to minimize the incidence of student disengagement.

'The Purpose Precinct' is growing the visibility and vitality of the social enterprise sector and creating a range of employment opportunities for priority job seekers.

The Rural Women Online Program launched to address a significant need for digital learning for rural and regional Victorian women.

Melbourne Business School, Chief Executive Women and the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust are launching a scholarship for women making a social impact.

We are pleased to announce a $1 million grant to the State Library of Victoria in honor of our 70th anniversary of the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust.