Statement in response to allegations of compromising donations

We are aware of allegations from a former staff member that the Wilderness Society accepted donations that the staff member believed could compromise the integrity of our work. These allegations are unfounded.

The Wilderness Society does not accept donations from fossil fuel companies.

The Wilderness Society takes seriously our responsibility to our supporters to deliver on our organisational purpose in alignment with our values.

We have processes in place that ensure we do not accept donations that risk our integrity or independence. The donations in question were subject to this process, and made unconditionally.

We have always been transparent about our relationship with the donor in question.

In 2023, the staff member raised unfounded concerns about the donations in question, believing they were sourced from a fossil fuel company. In an attempt to resolve this issue, numerous discussions were held with her around the nature of the donations and considerable effort was put into supporting her through this process.

The former staff member did not accept the evidence provided and subsequently resigned.

We regret any concern caused by these allegations to our supporters, donors, volunteers and staff who place their trust and confidence in us to act in their best interests, and in the best interests of Australia’s environment. We will continue to act with integrity and transparency, to secure a future that does not rely on the continued destruction of nature.