The national multicultural launch of The Salvation Army’s 2025 Red Shield Appeal was
officiated by Katrina Rathie on Friday, 20 June 2025, proudly hosted by MultiConnexions
Group. This year’s campaign theme, “Be Hope,” encourages all Australians to be the hope
someone needs today.
The event raises awareness of the charity’s practical support for those in need, bringing
together multicultural community, business, and media leaders who speak more than 30
languages, celebrating the generosity, resilience, and contributions of Australia’s
multicultural communities.
Colonel Rodney Walters, Secretary for Communications, The Salvation Army said: “For
over 140 years, The Salvation Army has been dedicated to supporting communities in
need. This year’s theme ‘Be Hope’ reflects our mission and the everyday reality we
witness in our work. This multicultural event is a meaningful opportunity to join with
multicultural leaders deeply committed to building a more compassionate society. We are
grateful to MultiConnexions for their long-standing support and for hosting this important
event, which allows us to reach multicultural audiences.”
In her keynote remarks, 2025 AFR Chair of the Year Award winner, Bubs Australia Chair,
SBS Non-Executive Director and multicultural business leader, Katrina Rathie said:
“Australia’s strength lies in its diversity, and multicultural communities are at the heart of
that story. Many of us have benefited from the opportunities this country offers, and now is
the time to give back. Join us in supporting the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal,
because when we give generously, we help build a more inclusive, compassionate
Australia for everyone.”
Sheba Nandkeolyar, CEO of MultiConnexions Group and Eva Burrows Award recipient,
said: “‘Be Hope’ captures the everyday generosity we witness across our communities.
Multicultural Australians proudly embrace their cultural heritage and contribution to modern
Australia. That is how hope becomes real through action. MultiConnexions is proud to
have supported The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal multicultural launch for over 20
years. We love the work the Salvos do and the ‘Hope’ they provide for those in need.”
The Red Shield Appeal is The Salvation Army’s most extensive fundraising campaign. In
2025, the organisation aims to raise $38 million nationally by 30 June to support over
2,000 programmes and services across Australia.
The Salvation Army invites individuals and communities to get involved. Whether through
donations, volunteering, or offering practical help locally, everyone can bring hope to those
facing hardship.
How the Salvos Are Making a Difference*
Every 17 seconds, The Salvation Army helps someone in need.
In 2023–2024, across all social programs, The Salvation Army:
Provided over 1.1 million nights of accommodation
Delivered more than 1.76 million sessions of care
Assisted more than 250,000 people across Australia
Offered over $24.3 million in financial assistance through cash, gift cards, vouchers,
and help with household bills.