Build Tender Funerals Geelong: Matched Giving for Community Funeral Care

Tender Funerals Geelong is entering a pivotal stage in our establishment. With support from impact investors, we have secured the property at 44 Grubb Road, Ocean Grove. These investors have offered low‑interest social‑impact loans, allowing us to move confidently into the fit‑out phase of our community-owned funeral service.

This investment recognises the significant need in our region for dignified, affordable and culturally respectful funeral care. Many families across the City of Greater Geelong (including the Bellarine Peninsula), Queenscliffe Borough, Surf Coast Shire and Golden Plains Shire experience financial stress or complex circumstances that make arranging a funeral overwhelming. Tender Funerals provides a transparent, compassionate alternative, one that reduces funeral poverty and empowers people to make choices aligned with their values, culture and budget. 

Thanks to an anonymous donor, every contribution to this campaign will be matched dollar‑for‑dollar, up to $125,000 — helping us reach our $250,000 establishment goal.

Your support will directly contribute to the fit-out and preparation of 44 Grubb Road, Ocean Grove, ensuring a warm, accessible, community-centred environment.

Once we are operational, we will be able to support the community with:

• Death literacy programs for carers, community groups and multicultural organisations.
• Benevolent Fund - equitable access funds so families experiencing hardship can receive dignified care without financial strain.
• First Nations partnerships - Culturally responsive service development in partnership with First Nations communities and local cultural groups. 

Together, we can build a service that belongs to the community and supports local families for generations.

With the site now in place, we are seeking partners who share our commitment to equity, dignity and community empowerment. Your support will help us complete the next phase of development and ensure that this service is accessible to all, regardless of circumstance.