Origin Energy has been named Australia’s Best Workplace to Give Back in 2020, topping a field of more than 300 companies, for the second year in a row.  

GoodCompany’s list of the Top 40 Best Workplaces to Give Back 2020 ranks companies on their commitment to empowering their employees to give back via Payroll Giving, Paid Volunteer Leave, Matching Donations, Fundraising, Sponsorship, Staff Rewards and other Pro-Social Activities. 

Origin Energy CEO Frank Calabria said, “Volunteering and giving back through the Origin Energy Foundation is a such big part of our culture and identity and it’s fitting that the recognition coincides with the foundation’s 10th anniversary.  “

“The award also recognises our community sponsorships and commitment to reconciliation. COVID-19 has been immensely challenging for so many not-for-profits, but I’m very proud of how the Foundation has found socially-distanced ways for our people to continue to volunteer, even while the majority of our workforce has been working remotely. We still distributed $2.9 million in grants and matched workplace giving this year. Well done to everyone at Origin and our Foundation for this recognition of the great work you do in the community,” Calabria said. 

GoodCompany CEO Ash Rosshandler said this year again, Origin Energy had topped the list, followed by Accenture and IAG.  

“What makes this year’s list so special is that it took place against the backdrop of the first recession in three decades, and unprecedented economic turmoil caused by the pandemic,” Rosshandler said. “This year’s been a nightmare for Australian charities, with all fundraising events, fun runs, golf days, corporate volunteering events cancelled.”

Yet at the same time the demand for charities across the board, Rosshandler said, and especially those dealing with domestic violence, mental health and food security, is skyrocketing. So, it’s heartening to find that companies have not only held on, but have increased the capacity and opportunities for their staff to give back. 

“With COVID-19 lockdowns and remote working, depression, disengagement and loneliness are serious issues, so offering staff remote volunteering opportunities to stay positive and engaged benefits everyone,” Rosshandler said.     

To achieve its number one ranking, Origin was recognised for being one of only five companies listed in the top 40 to offer its employees unlimited volunteer leave. The award also cited Origin’s sponsorships including Netball Australia, littleBigIdea, Free Electrons, Gawura, Injune Kindy and various other regional community grants. Origin’s commitment to reconciliation, diversity, green energy targets and its social procurement policy were also highlighted as key factors in its number one ranking.