This is a big deal, a respected government organisation partnering with local commercial businesses, local newsXpress stores, in an initiative that has community at its heart. The Donation Dollar is all about encouraging Aussies to give to charities and community groups.
The Donation Dollar is a respected initiative, something that has attracted praise from around the world.
The engagement by newsXpress stores in this is a wonderful opportunity for the members of the group.
MEDIA RELEASE 23 November 2022
More Donation Dollars out in circulation in the lead up to Christmas
Today, the Royal Australian Mint (the Mint) launched a new initiative to get more Donation Dollars into the hands of Australian’s in the lead up to Christmas.
This initiative, which will be rolled out at newsXpress retail stores across the country from 24 November, encourages people to swap their change for Donation Dollars and increase charitable giving in the lead up to the Christmas holiday season.
Managing Director of newsXpress stores, Mark Fletcher said “We are excited to be working with the Royal Australian Mint on this important initiative. With nearly 200 stores across Australia, newsXpress can help get Donation Dollars into the hands of thousands of Australians in all parts of the country.”
Royal Australian Mint CEO, Leigh Gordon, said rolling out this initiative through newsXpress stores will make Donation Dollar more accessible to Australians.
“We have minted one Donation Dollar for every Australian as a tangible reminder of the importance of giving back. Donation Dollars have been distributed through the banks since September 2020 with an estimated six million currently in circulation. While Australians will continue to come across Donation Dollars, this partnership with newsXpress means that Australians don’t need to wait to find a Donation Dollar in their change, they can simply visit one of the newsXpress stores to get their hands on a Donation Dollar – making this hard working coins more accessible to all. Every dollar out in circulation, is another dollar working to make Australia better.
The coin is designed to be instantly recognisable with the words Give to Help Others and a green centre with a gold ripple design emanating from the centre symbolising the ongoing impact each donation dollar makes to those who need it most.
“Since its launch in September 2020, 2.8 million Australians have found and donated one or more donation dollars to a charity or a business or person in need. Independent research commissioned by the Mint shows that the average donation prompted by the Donation Dollar is $21, equating to approximately $59 million in donations generated by this initiative to date.
“I encourage all Australians to visit their nearest newsXpress store and swap their regular dollars for a Donation Dollar, or check their change, car consoles and saving jars for this very special coin. When you get your hands on a Donation Dollar, remember to donate it to someone in need, whether this is a charity, homeless person or struggling business,” said Mr Gordon.
From tomorrow, Australians can head into their local newsXpress retail store and swap their dollars for Donation Dollars. For more information and to find a participating newsXpress agency, visit www.donationdollar.com.au
About the Royal Australian Mint
The Mint is an award-winning, world class Mint and a global leader in the mint industry. The Mint produces circulating coins for Australia and other countries; collectible and investment coins for domestic and international customers; and custom-made medals, medallions and tokens for individual or corporate clients.
The Mint is also a national cultural attraction that educates millions of Australians and international visitors on the history of Australia’s decimal currency, and the significance and value of coins.
About the Donation Dollar
The Donation Dollar is an official circulating coin, designed to be given, not spent or kept. The Royal Australian Mint will produce 25 million Donation Dollars, one for every Australian. If every Australian donates one Donation Dollar a month, an additional $300 million every year can be raised for those who need it most.
Coins are efficient products in that people visiting to purchase coins often purchase other items in the business as many coin sets are purchased as gifts.
Now, the Donation Dollar is a bit different as it can be purchased but will more likely be handed out as change – this iOS hope the Mint is keen for it to reach the community.
Note: I am the Managing Director of newsXpress Pty Ltd