Atlantic Philanthropies Founder Chuck Feeney appointed AC

Atlantic Philanthropies Founder, Charles ‘Chuck’ Feeney, has been appointed an Honorary Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia in recognition of his contributions to Australian health, research and higher education.

Mr Feeney established the Atlantic Philanthropies over 40 years ago to devote his wealth to the service of humanity. Over the years, the foundation invested $12 billion worldwide, largely in support of health and social projects.

“We are delighted that the Australian Government has recognised Chuck Feeney’s commitment to fostering social change in Indigenous communities through funding the AFSE program.”

Among the projects the Atlantic Philanthropies supported was the global Atlantic Fellows network, of which the University of Melbourne-based Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) program is a part. AFSE was the foundation’s first major contribution to support Indigenous peoples anywhere in the world.

“We are delighted that the Australian Government has recognised Chuck Feeney’s commitment to fostering social change in Indigenous communities through funding the AFSE program,” AFSE Executive Director Professor Liz McKinley said.

The foundation also made investments in numerous other University of Melbourne projects and initiatives, most notably those that sought to build capacity across the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct, but also other Indigenous-focused investments such as support for the University’s research partnership with Indigenous communities in Northeast Arnhem Land.

In 2021, the University honoured Mr Feeney, together with Atlantic Philanthropies President and CEO Christopher Oechsli, by appointing them Fellows of the University of Melbourne in recognition of their extraordinary philanthropic investment and leadership.

The Companion in the Order of Australia appointment was announced by Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, Patrick Gorman, MP on Wednesday 10 August 2022.

“Mr Feeney’s philosophy of ‘giving while living’ has changed the culture of Australian philanthropy,” Assistant Minister Gorman said.

“His visionary approach has ensured a magnified contribution to society that will endure for many generations.”

The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity program welcomes this latest recognition of Mr Feeney’s extraordinary philanthropic giving and leadership, and congratulates him on his appointment.