Our purpose is ‘To encourage and support organisations that are capable of responding to social and ecological opportunities and challenges.’

The Foundation pays homage to the late Ian and Shirley Norman, who worked tirelessly to successfully establish the retail business of Norman Ross followed by Harvey Norman. The family is very proud of their parents’ work and charitable giving and now, with the generous support of the three Norman children, Karen, Tracy, and Glen, the Foundation has been set up to continue their parents’ substantial philanthropic efforts.

The Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation will provide support to projects that focus on:

  • Pillar 1 – Being Ecologically Sound
  • Pillar 2 – Protecting People from Harm
  • Pillar 3 – Walking Together with Traditional Custodians
  • Pillar 4 – Empowering Communities
Read our Annual Report 2021/22

The following values are important to the Board and staff of the Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation:

01

Family

All families are unique and constructed differently – to belong to one is that sense of coming home and being with your people.

02

Integrity

In all our dealings we will listen, and we will be honest, principled and kind.

03

Innovation and taking risks

We understand that creating real change can require doing things differently – we are happy to walk out of step.

04

Community capacity building

We want to work alongside communities in a way that is positive, empowering and grows active citizenship.


The Ian & Shirley Norman Foundation will operate

In deep engagement

  • With communities
  • With individuals committed to change
  • With other Foundations and NFP
  • With government (local, state, federal)
  • With Universities and research institutes

Safely

  • Ensuring physical safety
  • Ensuring psychological safety
  • Ensuring cultural safety

With an evidence base

  • Researching beforehand
  • Measuring impact
  • Peer reviewing
  • Seeking and keeping good data

Sustainably

  • With a small environmental footprint – treading lightly on the planet
  • Ensuring community self-determination in all that we do
Ian & Shirley Norman Footer Monogram

Our logo

Reminiscent of Ian & Shirley Norman’s era – monograms were often used on luggage for travellers. The Foundation’s logo was created as a reference to Shirley’s English background and to highlight the importance of family. The ampersand will celebrate people coming together, partnerships and collaborations.