Westfield shopping centres have revealed the shortlists for their Local Heroes program, with Australians across the country in the running for vital funding to support their community work.
Three finalists have been selected for each location. The finalist who receives the most votes in each community will receive a $20,000 grant, while the other two finalists will each receive $5,000.
Voting closes on 20 September 2026 at 6pm AEST. Voters may cast one vote per Westfield destination. Winners will be announced from 20 October 2026.
Among the nominees for 2026 is Christine Neiland from Rainbow Home Care Services.
Christine Neiland is described as passionate, driven and unwavering as CEO of Rainbow Care Home Services. For LGBTQI+ people who have lived through discrimination, accessing care and support can feel uncertain and heighten feelings of fear and isolation.
Through her organisation, established in 2020, Neiland provides inclusive care that respects people’s identities, treats them with dignity, and helps them stay connected to their families, communities and sense of self.
If successful, the grant would fund up to eight free community education workshops over the next 12 months, supporting the LGBTQI+ community while promoting inclusion and diversity.
You’ll find Christine Neiland listed among the Local Heroes finalists for North Lakes in Queensland.
