Reflecting on 25 Year of Impact

Last month, we proudly celebrated 25 years of changing children’s lives through books at our Anniversary Luncheon. A milestone event that brought together leaders, educators, and literacy advocates to reflect on the journey so far and envision a future where every child has access to the joy of reading.

Our inspiring panel featured Anna Burkey (Head of Australia Reads), Cathy Wilton (Principal, Villawood North Public School), Jacqueline Harvey (Author and Dymocks Children’s Charities Ambassador), and Melanie Smith (General Manager, Dymocks Children’s Charities). Together, they shared powerful insights on why access to books matters to everyone, from classrooms to boardrooms and how collective action can close Australia’s literacy gap.

“What began as a simple idea has grown into a national movement,” said Melanie Smith, General Manager of Dymocks Children’s Charities. “For 25 years, we’ve put books into the hands of children who need them most. This celebration isn’t just about looking back; it’s about building a future where every child can open doors through the joy of reading through literacy.”

The panel explored:
📚 The current state of literacy in Australia and why it’s a challenge we must tackle together.
📚 The life-changing impact of access to books in schools and homes.
📚 How collaboration between schools, authors, corporates, and charities can help bridge the literacy divide.

As Cathy Wilton shared, "I see the impact of Dymocks Children’s Charities. Igniting the power of a great book in the hands of children, inspiring them to write their own stories full of possibility and bring their journeys to a triumphant chapter of lifelong learning and success."

A heartfelt thank you to Commonwealth Bank for generously hosting the event and standing beside us in our mission to make reading accessible for every child.