Zephyr Education Inc

Zephyr Education is a community based charity run entirely by volunteers, which started in Queensland in 2013. We now operate in every Australian State and Territory and supply over one million dollars of educational support annually to thousands of children and young adults.

Children who have to flee their homes because of DFV, often with just the clothes they are wearing, also have to leave the one place where they feel safe – their school. Imagine having to leave behind all your school friends and start at a different school without the right uniform and without the same books and other school essentials as your new classmates. These children face heightened risks of falling behind in their education and being bullied because they look different.

The DFV shelters that care for these families cannot provide the children with the educational support they so urgently need. This is where Zephyr Education steps in. We supply these children with uniforms, shoes, school bags, textbooks, stationery, and everything else they will need at their new school. This includes a laptop or an iPad if the school requires students to have their own device. We also pay sport fees and fees for school resource schemes, school camps and excursions to ensure the children don’t miss out on these important activities.

We provide our support at a critical time in these young lives and now, as a result of our partnership with Audi Foundation, many more of these vulnerable children will arrive at their new schools with renewed confidence and with a real opportunity to successfully resume their education.

We do not meet the children we help because of the need for confidentiality. However, we frequently receive emails from case workers and mothers at DFV shelters describing the impact of our assistance. Here is just one example from a grateful mother:

Dear Zephyr Team,

I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for the kindness and support you extended in helping provide my son with his school uniforms, bag, and hats. When I was told assistance was available, I was already thankful, and I honestly expected that the items might be second-hand. Receiving brand new uniforms was such a touching and unexpected gesture, and I am deeply grateful.

As a parent navigating a difficult period, moments like this carry far more meaning than the items themselves. You have helped my son walk into school feeling prepared and confident on his first day. That sense of dignity means the world to both of us.

Your generosity has lifted a weight from my shoulders and reminded me that there are compassionate people and organisations willing to support families as they rebuild and move forward. Please know that your help has made a real difference in our lives and has helped my son begin this new chapter with confidence.

Thank you again for your care, kindness, and the work you do for families in the community. It is truly appreciated. Your support will remain a meaningful part of my son’s journey as he takes these next steps.