The Seven Network, Nine and Network 10 united for a star-studded telethon, Australia Unites: Red Cross Flood Appeal which raised more than $25 million.
100% of the funds raised during Australia Unites: Red Cross Flood Appeal are going to help people and communities affected by the floods that have devastated Queensland and New South Wales in recent weeks.
The broadcast featured Australian music legends, celebrities, and popular news and entertainment personalities, who all banded together from three different networks.
More than 18,000 calls were received, and more than 340,000 visits to the Red Cross Floods Appeal website. This culminated in a massive $25,249,796 worth of pledges from generous Australians.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said: “These floods have been beyond devastating for communities across New South Wales and Queensland, particularly in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales. Australia is strong and resilient because of the generosity of Australians.
“Thank you so much to everyone who has been able to make a donation to this Red Cross appeal to support the affected communities – and thank you to the many volunteers who are giving their time to this effort. To everyone impacted, our Government and the whole nation will continue to stand with you and support you.”
Kym Pfitzner, CEO Australian Red Cross, said: “Thank you to Channel 7, 9 and 10 for coming together – the result was beyond our expectations. The Flood Appeal united the nation in support of tens of thousands of people impacted by the floods.
“We witnessed the spirit of humanity in action. I’d like to thank everyone who donated for your incredible generosity. 100% of the money raised during the telethon will go in cash grants to help people impacted by the floods.”
Over the five hour broadcast, a total average of 810,000 Australians tuned in to Australia Unites: Red Cross Flood Appeal which was simulcast on Channel 7, 7plus, Channel 10, 10 Play, Channel 9 and 9Now.
On television, Australia Unites: Red Cross Flood Appeal reached over 3 million Australians including 2.16 million people in the capital cities and 1.03 million in regional areas.
Whenever disaster strikes, Australian Red Cross works side by side with organisations such as the St Vincent de Paul Society, The Salvation Army, Lifeline, and GIVIT to get help to where it’s needed most.
So far, 468 Red Cross emergency response team members and volunteers have provided support in 49 evacuation centres – and donations help to make that support possible.
Applications for the grant for those affected by the floods will open on Friday, March 18.
Donations are still open for the Australian Red Cross Flood Appeal, here or by calling 1800 733 276.