Just over a year after the devastating fire, La Mama Theatre today announced that the million dollar contribution by State Government has been matched by a philanthropic alliance including, Sidney Myer Fund, John T Reid Charitable Trusts, Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, Gandel Philanthropy and an anonymous donation.
Minister for Creative Industries, the Hon. Martin Foley, welcomed the alliance’s contribution.
“La Mama is at the heart of Victoria and Australia’s cultural and creative life. The Andrews Labor Government is proud to have contributed $1 million to jumpstart this important project which will not only rebuild La Mama but make it even stronger and more accessible for the next generation.” Minister Foley commented “I’m delighted that this has inspired some of our country’s leading philanthropists to band together and contribute an additional $1 million, putting La Mama within reach of its fundraising target. I acknowledge their generosity and that of every member of the community who has dug deep to contribute to La Mama’s future.”
Led by Vedran Drakulic OAM CEO of Gandel Philanthropy and Carrillo Gantner AC, Chairman of the Sidney Myer Fund, each of the five Trusts/Foundations/Donors have generously given equal gifts resulting in a significant $1 million total contribution. The philanthropy collaboration is pleased to support the rebuild of this important community infrastructure, including achieving best practice disability access standards.

Vedran Drakulic said on behalf of the philanthropic alliance, “This was a unique opportunity for us as a sector to come together to support a vital place we all believe in. We are proud to be working alongside government and La Mama’s diverse community of supporters to champion the future of this iconic theatre and hub for so many artists La Mama is a true symbol of Melbourne and its art scene. It is a much-needed institution that is an essential and vibrant part of the theatre ecology of the Australian theatre scene, and together we are proud to ensure it rebuilds and continues strongly into the future.”
Alongside the insurance settlement, contributions by Heritage Victoria and City of Melbourne and now over $100,000 already raised by the community, this combined philanthropic donation means La Mama has secured approx. 95% of the total needed for the rebuild.
Long-standing Artistic Director and CEO, Liz Jones and Chair of La Mama, Richard Watts, said of this significant boost to their fundraising drive, “This philanthropic alliance is a beautiful demonstration of the strength and impact of community and collective action. We are all stronger when we work together for a common cause. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks.” “By matching the Andrews Government’s support, these philanthropists and their trusts and foundations have demonstrated that they believe La Mama matters. We’re now so close to being able to rebuild. We just need that last little bit.”