The bushfires that engulfed the state over the weekend have devastated Victoria, killing over 170 people and destroying a massive amount of property. As horrendous as the story has been, the response of individuals and corporations in raising over $27 million for the Victorian Governments Bushfire Appeal has been phenomenal. The big banks have all donated $1 million and Wesfarmers have used their retail arms to raise money and awareness of the fund amongst the public, whilst also donating $500,000 directly.
I can’t think of a better example of the positive effects of the often maligned PR Industry. Few would dispute that the donations are an exercise in corporate citizenship by these big corporations. The donation serves to benefit the victims of this horrible disaster, whilst also garnering positive press and publicity for the organisations. At the end of many news bulletins, which are packed with horrific stories relating to the bushfire, the good news story of the generosity of Australia’s people is constantly linked to the organisations mentioned earlier.
On dark days like these, it is comforting to know that the industry we work in can contribute positively to the lives of those who have suffered tremendous loss.
