Paul Ramsay Foundation Invests $1.365 Million in First Steps Count's Future
Wednesday 13 May 2026 • First Steps Count has secured a landmark $1,365,000 commitment from the Paul Ramsay Foundation, to be distributed over five years. The investment represents one of the most significant philanthropic partnerships in the Hub's operational history and provides a foundation of stability that allows First Steps Count to plan and deliver with confidence.
From left to right: Liz Yeo, Chief of Alliances (Paul Ramsay Foundation), Clare Brennan, Hub Director (First Steps Count) and Kate Torii (Paul Ramsay Foundation).
The Paul Ramsay Foundation works alongside organisations and communities to change the conditions that create disadvantage in Australia — investing in places, building knowledge and capability, and influencing policy through collaboration. Their approach aligns closely with First Steps Count's community-led model, which puts local families at the centre of decision-making and responds to what Taree actually needs.
For First Steps Count, the multi-year nature of this funding is critical. Rather than operating cycle to cycle, the Hub can now sustain and deepen its programs with the certainty that core support is in place for the 5 years ahead.
The timing is serendipitous; in recent months, the First Steps Count Board has welcomed new members with deep expertise in finance, business strategy, and partnership development — positioning the organisation to make the very most of this investment.
“This is a transformative moment for First Steps Count. The Paul Ramsay Foundation’s commitment gives us the stability to think beyond the immediate and focus on lasting impact for families in Taree. That it coincides with strengthened governance and strategic capability on our Board means we are well placed to honour this investment with real, measurable outcomes.”
First Steps Count will use the funding to consolidate and expand its core services, ensuring that families continue to have access to practical, responsive support. The funding will also be used to ensure programs are delivered in response to community feedback and input, as well as building our team here at the Hub so we have the physical and human resources we need to deliver a high standard of trauma-informed and culturally safe support.
We look forward to our continued partnership with Paul Ramsay Foundation and the opportunities this collaboration brings, allowing us to provide our Taree families with what they need to thrive.
Media Enquiries:
Clare Brennan, Director
clare.brennan@firststepscount.org
Links:
Learn more about Paul Ramsay Foundation
