With food insecurity affecting 69% of single-parent households in 2024 in Australia ,[1] The Ascott Limited, a global leader in serviced residences and hotels, is mobilising its Australian network of hotels including Quest Apartment Hotels, Citadines, lyf and Oakwood, setting a goal to contribute $50,000 of funding and in-kind to support the vital work of Foodbank .
The 3-year partnership was unveiled during the company’s 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) event held today and will leverage Ascott Australia’s network of 126 properties Australia-wide to help address the growing food insecurity crisis impacting 3.4 million Australian households.
Foodbank is the biggest hunger-relief charity in Australia, with a mission to end hunger across the country.
Managing Director of The Ascott Limited Australasia, David Mansfield announced the partnership with a donation to Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey AM, which will mean the equivalent of 30,000 meals sourced for many in the community doing it tough.
Ascott Australia’s significant contribution will include volunteering, food donation and fundraising:
- An annual Winter Food Drive across participating Quest, Citadines, lyf, and Oakwood properties collecting staple goods for local Foodbank branches.
- Fundraising events and community initiatives.
- Dedicated Volunteering Days in Foodbank warehouses across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth during March and April.
- Foodbank staff will be accommodated in Quest Properties across Australia, when travelling for work
Food insecurity in Australia has reached a critical level, impacting 3.4 million households—a reality for single-parent Tracy, a Foodbank beneficiary from Western Australia.
“As a single mum with a young family, making ends meet isn’t easy. But thankfully Foodbank has been there for me and my family in one way or another over the years,” said Tracy.
“When I first accessed Foodbank, I had a newborn and a one-year old and urgently needed food and toiletries, they helped us then and they’re still helping us today whenever money is tight. The food work they do has inspired me to study and get a career where I can help others. I’ve been volunteering at a local charity for quite a few years now as a way of giving back. I’m just so grateful for the help and want to do what I can to help others,” she adds.
Quotes attributable to The Ascott Limited, Australasia Managing Director, David Mansfield:
“At The Ascott Australia, we believe that thriving communities are key to our success, which is why we continue to invest this International Women’s Day in partnership initiatives that have a real impact on the wellbeing of everyday Australians.”
“In 2024, we partnered with organisations, such as Hotels for Trees, Accessible Accommodation and the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks women’s team, to boost sustainability, accessibility and equity within and outside our properties nationwide, where guests had trees planted and had access to more tailored stays.”
“Our partnership with Foodbank Australia reinforces our commitment to living out our values of care and hospitality while making the lives of millions of Australians, both guests and others, more comfortable.”
Quote attributable to Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey AM :
“Foodbank is incredibly grateful for The Ascott Limited Australia’s generous support which will enable us to source thousands of additional meals in 2025 for the many people across the country doing it tough right now.With the cost-of-living crisis continuing to impact the household budget, we know good food becomes a discretionary item and dropped from the shopping list, making partnerships like this extremely vital.”
Quotes attributable to The Ascott Limited, Australia, General Manager, Brand and ESG, Anthea Dimitrakopoulos:
“At Ascott Australia, we understand that the rising cost-of-living crisis has left many Australians struggling to meet their most basic needs, including access to food. With many families facing food insecurity for the first time, we believe it’s a crucial time to step in and make a difference.”
“Ascott Australia will leverage its extensive network of properties, people, and resources to help alleviate this pressing issue. Together, with Foodbank, we can provide a lifeline to those in need, ensuring no one has to go without.”
“We are committed to doing our part to help improve the lives of many Australians and to support a more nourished, stronger future for all.”
