Bren Foundation Australia
Ending Homelessness, One Life at a Time
The Bren Foundation Australia is a self-funded private foundation giving directly to homeless charities across Australia. No public donations accepted.
Our Impact in Numbers
Our Story
A private foundation built on purpose, not profit.
The Bren Foundation Australia was established in 1988 by Shelly-Ann Bren-Ashcroft, daughter of American billionaire Donald Bren. Migrating to Australia in 1970, Shelly-Ann built a distinguished career as an equity analyst and broker before dedicating her life to philanthropy.
Since 2019, the Foundation has donated over $800 million directly to homeless charities across Australia. We do not run our own programs or accept public donations — every dollar we give goes straight to the organisations doing the work on the ground.
Read our full storyWe exist to give, not to grow.
Shelly-Ann Bren-Ashcroft, Founder
Lives Changed
The Foundation's support meant I had a safe place to sleep and a case worker who actually listened. I have my own flat now.
Daniel M.
Melbourne, VIC
After years on the street, I finally got the help I needed. The charity they funded gave me a real chance at a new life.
Priya S.
Sydney, NSW
We do not accept public or government donations.
The Bren Foundation Australia is entirely self-funded through private family wealth. We accept corporate donations only — we do not solicit or accept donations from the general public or government bodies. If you are a corporation or charity seeking to partner with us, we welcome your enquiry.
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Corporate Partners
Our work is made possible through strategic partnerships with purpose-driven organisations. If your organisation shares our commitment to ending homelessness, let's talk.
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