1. Purpose
The Melbourne Ice Foundation exists to enrich lives through the power of ice and winter sports.
Established by Melbourne Ice, the Foundation is an independent not-for-profit organisation dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals and communities to participate, grow and thrive through ice hockey and other ice sports.
The Foundation supports initiatives that promote participation, inclusion, education, health, wellbeing and community development, while preserving and growing the legacy of the Melbourne Ice for future generations.
2. Vision
To inspire healthier, stronger and more connected communities by making ice and winter sports accessible to everyone.
3. Mission
The Melbourne Ice Foundation aspirations:
- Partner with businesses, governments and charitable organisations to maximise community impact.
- Increase participation in ice sports regardless of age, gender, background or financial circumstances.
- Support athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers in achieving their full potential.
- Provide financial assistance to individuals and families experiencing hardship.
- Deliver programs that improve physical health, mental wellbeing and community connection.
- Preserve and celebrate the history and heritage of the Melbourne Ice and Australian ice hockey.
4. Core Values
Community
Everything we do begins with people.
We believe our sport has the ability to bring communities together and create lifelong friendships.
Integrity
We conduct ourselves honestly, transparently and ethically in every decision we make.
Inclusion
Everyone deserves the opportunity to participate regardless of age, gender, culture, ability, sexuality, religion or financial circumstances.
Excellence
We strive to deliver programs that create meaningful and measurable outcomes.
Respect
We value diversity, encourage collaboration and treat everyone with dignity.
Legacy
We seek to leave the sport and our community stronger than we found it.
5. Strategic Objectives
The Foundation will focus on six key pillars:
Participation
Introduce more people to ice hockey and ice sports.
Player Support
Provide grants, scholarships and emergency assistance to players requiring financial support.
Youth Development
Support junior development pathways and educational opportunities.
Community Wellbeing
Deliver programs that improve physical and mental health through sport.
Heritage
Preserve and celebrate the history of the Melbourne Ice and Australian ice hockey.
Philanthropy
Develop sustainable fundraising programs that enable long-term community investment.
6. Activities
The Foundation may undertake activities including:
- Community fundraising events
- Charity exhibition games
- Scholarships and bursaries
- Equipment donation programs
- Junior participation grants
- School engagement initiatives
- Indigenous participation programs
- Inclusion initiatives
- Women's and girls' hockey programs
- Disability and adaptive ice sports programs
- Mental health awareness campaigns
- Emergency player assistance
- Volunteer recognition initiatives
- Historical preservation projects
7. Governance
The Foundation will be governed by an independent Advisory Board appointed to provide strategic direction, oversight and accountability.
The Advisory Board will:
- act in the best interests of the Foundation;
- ensure funds are used for charitable purposes;
- approve annual strategic priorities;
- oversee fundraising activities;
- monitor financial performance and governance standards;
- promote transparency and ethical conduct.
Board members will serve voluntarily unless otherwise determined by the Board.
8. Financial Stewardship
The Foundation is committed to responsible financial management.
Funds raised will be applied solely to advancing the Foundation's charitable objectives.
The Foundation will:
- maintain accurate financial records;
- publish annual reports;
- comply with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements;
- seek independent financial review or audit where appropriate;
- ensure donor funds are used responsibly and transparently.
9. Partnerships
The Foundation welcomes partnerships with:
- individuals;
- corporate partners;
- philanthropic organisations;
- government agencies;
- educational institutions;
- sporting organisations; and
- community groups.
All partnerships should reflect the values and objectives of the Foundation.
10. Diversity and Inclusion
The Melbourne Ice Foundation is committed to providing an environment that is welcoming, safe and inclusive.
Discrimination, harassment and bullying have no place within the Foundation or its activities.
11. Sustainability
The Foundation seeks to create long-term impact through sustainable fundraising, responsible governance and strategic investment in community programs.
12. Measuring Success
The Foundation will evaluate its impact through measurable outcomes including:
- funds raised;
- grants awarded;
- participants supported;
- community programs delivered;
- volunteer engagement;
- partnerships established;
- participation growth; and
- social impact achieved.
13. Our Commitment
The Melbourne Ice Foundation believes that sport changes lives.
Every dollar donated, every volunteer who contributes, every sponsor who partners with us and every supporter who attends our events helps create opportunities that extend far beyond the rink.
Together, we will build a stronger community, inspire future generations and ensure that the positive impact of ice sports continues for decades to come.
Changing Lives Through Ice Sports.
