Audi Foundation has entered into a new partnership with Bully Zero

The Audi Foundation, Audi Australia’s corporate philanthropic foundation, has entered into a new partnership with not-for-profit, Bully Zero, an organisation dedicated to helping to equip people of all ages with the appropriate tools to deal with bullying and its far-reaching consequences 

Since its inception in 2017, the Audi Foundation, Audi Australia’s corporate philanthropic foundation, has donated more than $7.7 million to leading organisations working across medical research, mental health, STEM education, and community support. 

On October 28, the Audi Foundation has entered into a new partnership with not-for-profit, Bully Zero, an organisation dedicated to helping to equip people of all ages with the appropriate tools to deal with bullying and its far-reaching consequences. 

Bully Zero has a proven track record of delivering evidence-based programs designed to educate and empower those directly affected by bullying, as well as those who witness bullying, whether it be at school or in the workplace. 

Bully Zero was founded in 2013 following the tragic death by suicide, at just 17 years of age, of Allem Halkic, the victim of relentless cyberbullying. His parents, Ali and Dina, deeply impacted by his loss, were determined that it not be in vain. They joined with likeminded individuals and the organisation was born – growing to become recognised as one of the country’s leading organisations combating bullying in all its forms. 

“We understand that the personal and financial toll of bullying across all age groups and demographics is immense, and everyone deserves to be in a place where they feel comfortable and respected, whether that be at school or in the workplace, in person or online,” said Audi Foundation Chairman, and Director of Audi Australia, Jeff Mannering. “The Audi Foundation is very pleased to be able support Bully Zero in its ongoing work which is helping people of all ages to deal with the effects of bullying.” 

“Bullying leaves lasting scars on individuals and communities, and the need for prevention has never been greater,” said Janet Grima, CEO of Bully Zero. “Through this partnership with the Audi Foundation, we can empower more Australians to act - to recognise, prevent, and respond to bullying effectively. Every program we deliver helps change a life, and with the Audi Foundation’s support, we can amplify that impact across the nation.” 

Katie Govic, education coordinator at Bully Zero

Bullying is often referred to as the ‘silent epidemic’ but its impacts are all too real and far-reaching. At a personal level, its effects can be measured in lives damaged and even lost, while at an economic level, its costs run to billions of dollars each year in lost productivity, staff turnover and legal action. 

One in four employees have been subject to bullying in the workplace while seven in 10 Australians claim to have experienced some form of bullying during their lifetime. According to surveys, one in four children between Year 4 and Year 9 experience bullying on a regular basis, while the proliferation of online activity particularly in the younger generation exposes them to the threats of cyberbullying, with a third of teens having experienced harmful interactions social media, messaging apps or gaming platforms. 

Bully Zero uses specially designed programs to provide people of all ages with the tools to prevent bullying wherever it may occur. From schools to the workplace, sporting clubs and community groups, online and in person, these evidence-based programs have been developed in conjunction with experts including teachers, social workers, psychologists and neuroscientists to educate and empower young people, parents, teachers and employees. 

Jeff Mannering, Audi Foundation chairman and Director of Audi Australia

Bully Zero also works with governments to help drive change through research and policy development as well as providing practical and ongoing support to help Australians from all walks of life ‘prevent and respond to bullying effectively’. 

The Audi Foundation has raised over $7.7 million since its inception, through the Audi Dealer Network and fundraising raffles held twice each year. These funds are used to support not-for-profit partners with proven programs across medical research, education and career futures and positive mental health outcomes.