The Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas
About
The Judith Neilson Institute for Journalism and Ideas is an Australian philanthropic foundation established in late 2018 by billionaire Judith Neilson, committing at least $100 million to champion quality journalism and storytelling. It supports journalism in Australia and globally through grants, education programs, and events.
Tips for Applicants
Applicants should align with the Institute's focus on quality, evidence-based journalism, the pursuit of truth, and increasingly, 'social change journalism'. Projects with an emphasis on Asia reporting, media literacy, or engaging non-English speaking and regional communities may be favourable. Collaboration with existing journalism schools and news organisations is also noted.
Giving Philosophy
The Institute aims to celebrate and encourage quality, evidence-based journalism and the pursuit of truth. While initially focused on independence and non-partisanship, it has recently shifted its direction to focus on 'social change journalism' and engaging with consumers of journalism, including non-English speaking communities and those in regional areas.
Notable Grants
ACNC Financial History
| Year | Grants Given | Revenue | Total Assets | Net Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2023 | $1.2M $860K AU + $362K intl | $171K | $42.5M | $42.3M |
| FY2022 | $3.9M $3.2M AU + $727K intl | $10.2M | $47.5M | $45.9M |
| FY2021 | $2.4M $2.1M AU + $302K intl | $5.1M | $46.8M | $46.0M |
| FY2020 | $2.2M $2.1M AU + $116K intl | $16.0M | $50.6M | $48.6M |
| FY2019 | $437K | $45.0M | $41.1M | $38.8M |
| 5yr total | $10.2M | Source: ACNC Annual Information Statements | ||
Programs (from website)
Judith Neilson Institute Freelance Grant for Asian Journalism
Encourages and supports more and better reporting on Asia by Australian media professionals and news outlets.