About the Jeffrey Blyth Foundation
BCA is generously supported by the Jeffrey Blyth Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to receive bequests and donations in support of the work of BCA. The Foundation creates and invests a capital base, and uses the income to support the work of BCA. It aims to provide BCA with a level of financial independence.
The Foundation was established in 1995 through two contributions from Hugh Jeffrey and David Blyth. Since then, the capital has grown and has been supplemented by other contributions. In 2017, the Association of Blind Citizens of NSW and the ACT contributed around $2.4 million to the Foundation. Most of this money came from the sale of Shirley House in Burwood, Sydney, where the Association had its centre. This contribution to the Foundation forms a sub-fund, known as the Shirley fund. The proceeds from the Shirley fund are distributed to the work of The Association, or its successors, in NSW and the ACT. The Association then merged with Blind Citizens Australia.
The Foundation therefore, has two funds:
- The General fund, which may be spent throughout Australia, and which is used for grants to BCA; and
- The Shirley fund, which must be spent in NSW or the ACT, and is used for grants to BCA.
As a Public Ancillary fund, the Foundation is legally required to distribute at least 4 percent of its net worth each year. This occurs in two equal contributions to BCA. As the net worth has increased, the grants to BCA have become larger, now constituting a significant part of BCA’s income.
The Foundation also contributes to the Hugh Jeffrey scholarship initiative. These scholarships, awarded by BCA, support up to five students who are blind or vision impaired to complete higher education in their chosen field of endeavour. Reports of grants made to BCA from the Shirley Fund can be found below.
Donations and bequests can be made directly to the Foundation by contacting BCA on 1800 033 660 or emailing bca@bca.org.au.
Financial Reports
JBF reports will continue to be provided every quarter.
2024-2025 Reports
- Shirley fund report for BCA period ended 30 June 2025
- Shirley fund report for BCA period ended 31 Mar 2025
- Shirley Fund report for BCA period ended 31 Dec 2024