To support arts and culture

Mazda Australia (MA) has provided support for Opera Australia for seven consecutive years, sponsoring free-of-charge outdoor performances. In FY2010, MA donated A$500,000, and an audience of approximately 500,000 people attended performances held in Sydney and Melbourne.

To support environmental initiatives

The Mazda Foundation Australia sponsors the efforts of the Aurora Vehicle Association to develop practical solar vehicles. The association participated in the World Solar Challenge, and Mazda donated A$20,000 and a BT-50 vehicle.

To promote development of young people and volunteer activities among employees

The Mazda Foundation Australia has supported the Reach Foundation for six years running. The Reach Foundation provides a variety of programs such as teacher workshops and youth camps to help young people realize their dreams, regardless of their social or economic standing. MA employees serve as volunteers in the Heroes workshop once a year, where they have the opportunity to work together with young people.

MA donated A$100,000, lent two vehicles, and provided employees as volunteers for the Heroes workshop. One of employees who attended this workshop said, "It's an amazing program! It provides so much value and has the power to help young people see things differently, feel good about themselves and think about their future."

To contribute to local health care and give employees the opportunity to participate in local volunteer activities

MA supports the Royal Children's Hospital through the "Run For the Kids" running event held by the hospital every year in April. The money raised by this event goes toward vital research, facilities and equipment at the hospital. MA employees participate in and help run the event as volunteers. MA donated A$10,000 and vehicles.

To contribute to the local community and promote employee participation in volunteer activities

At MA, employees come to work in casual clothing and participate in a fundraiser as part of "Casual Dress Day," which is held every two weeks. Money raised is donated to the Royal Children's Hospital, the Victorian Bushfire Appeal of the Australian Red Cross, the "Movember" charitable campaign to raise awareness of cancers specific to men, and other local charity groups.

To support arts and culture

MA has supported Art Exhibitions Australia for 11 years as a premium sponsor. MA held dealer events at galleries, and invited customers. The art exhibition, "Valentino Retrospective: Past/Present/Future," was held at the Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane and explored the work of the celebrated Italian fashion house Valentino. The exhibition encompassed the haute couture collection.

To promote sports

MA cosponsors the North Melbourne Football Club Australian rules football team and the New South Wales Waratahs rugby team. MA donated A$2.2 million and lent 45 vehicles.