Because all children deserve the same opportunities in life.
Our vision is to create a future where every child, regardless of circumstance or ability, can be supported, included and equal. Each year, thousands of children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability, get support from Variety – the Children’s Charity when they need it most.
How we help
Variety helps when others can’t. Families and organisations can turn to Variety – the Children’s Charity when government assistance isn’t available. Variety provides support through grants for children and families for things like:
- Mobility equipment and wheelchairs
- Communication devices and education aides
- Scholarships in sport and the arts
- Therapy services, including occupational therapy and psychology
Our history
Eleven men involved in the show business industry meet each week at a social club named “Variety Club”. On Christmas Eve, a baby girl is left abandoned on the club’s doorstep at the Sheridan Square Film Theatre in Pittsburgh with a note which reads:Please take care of my baby. Her name is Catherine. I can no longer take care of her. I have eight others. My husband is out of work. She was born on Thanksgiving Day. I have always heard of the goodness of showbusiness people and pray to God that you will look after her. Signed, a heartbroken mother.”Despite an extensive search, the mother is never found. The men informally adopt the baby and name her Catherine Variety Sheridan. They go on to pay for the Catherine’s education and upbringing. This prompts the club to start raising funds for other disadvantaged children and Variety – the Children’s Charity is born.
Founded on
1928
Variety Australia is founded in Sydney
As a tribute to the show business origins of Variety, offices are referred to as ‘Tents’ and Chairmen are Chief Barkers.
The Ladies of Variety committee
The Ladies of Variety committee is founded, holding the inaugural Children’s Christmas Party in Sydney.
Derryn Hinch sketches a logo featuring the now iconic heart and hat, symbolising the show business origins of Variety and caring for our children. The logo is adopted by Variety Australia.
Regional Committees are founded in each of Australia’s mainland capital cities
Dick Smith invites his mates for “a drive in the bush” to raise funds for Variety. The Variety Bash was born and quickly becomes an incredibly successful charity event
Variety volunteers celebrate raising a record $1 million in annual revenue
Woolworths sponsor the Variety Gold Heart campaign, raising over $1 million
Variety begins establishing independent ‘Tents’ in each state and territory
Variety opens its Newcastle office
Variety celebrates its 40th year in Australia
The first Variety Livvi's Place inclusive playspace opens in Bankstown
Variety delivers its 1300th Sunshine Coach in Australia
Woolworths reaches a major milestone, having raised over $15 million for Variety
2024
The Variety Bash celebrates turning 40!
Need more information?
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