We believe sustainability encompasses the financial and non financial factors that drive enduring value. It is core to our investment philosophy that for 120 years has focused on enhancing businesses, generating employment and investing in communities to foster intergenerational value.
At the heart of our investment philosophy is a culture-driven approach, where strong governance and leadership are paramount. We apply this same philosophy to navigate the energy transition, leveraging our experience, skills and insights to invest responsibly in the face of climate change and a decarbonising global economy.
The journey towards a sustainable energy future is complex and will not be linear. We are committed to investing across the energy spectrum, in assets that are managed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability, social responsibility and community wellbeing. We seek to influence change through active engagement with our controlled and substantial investments.
In an increasingly complex and rapidly changing investment landscape, our commitment to an unconstrained investment approach remains steadfast. This strategy allows us the flexibility to uncover hidden value, regardless of market fluctuations, ensuring we stay agile and responsive to emerging opportunities.
Our approach to sustainability in our direct operations aligns with our purpose of generating enduring success for our shareholders, employees and the community. In the 2024 Sustainability Report, we highlight some of the ways we prioritise sustainability factors such as strong governance, a talented and motivated workforce, community partnerships and responsible environmental management.
Our long-term partnership with the RFDS began with our founder, Lewy Pattinson, a devoted philanthropist. In 1940, he donated the first plane to the RFDS. This legacy continues 84 years later. In 2024, with the support of our shareholders, we raised more than $235,000. To support the fundraising efforts, Soul Patts donated an additional $500,000, bringing the total to more than $735,000. The money raised will support and improve primary healthcare services in rural, regional, and remote communities across Australia. With this support, the RFDS can help provide regular fly in–fly out and mobile health clinics for families, bringing expert medical care to the bush.
The Soul Patts Foundation, formerly the Milton Foundation, was established in 1988 to support disadvantaged community members. Following a review of our community strategy, and with input from our Soul Patts employees, we identified three thematic pillars: mental health, communities, and breaking down barriers for women. These pillars inform the decisions behind our philanthropic and sponsorship partnerships and our social responsibilities. Through the Foundation, we have established two new partnerships: Black Dog Institute and The George Institute for Global Health.
Black Dog Institute is the only mental health medical research institute in Australia. Soul Patts has donated in the past to the Black Dog Institute, but in FY24 established a formal partnership. The Black Dog Institute has developed a world-first digital program for primary school-aged children struggling with elevated levels of anxiety and reading difficulties, which means access to tools is limited. Soul Patts has donated $180,000 to support a trial proposing an effective solution.
The George Institute for Global Health is a global medical research institute with a Women’s Health Program focused on addressing the underrepresentation of women in health and medical research. Soul Patts has donated $60,000 to help promising start-ups turn research into lasting solutions for women in the community with commercialisation support and mentorship.