Promoting the sustainability, development and enrichment of indigenous communities and culture
Honouring a Legacy, supporting Indigenous Futures
The Peter Newman Foundation (PNF) was established in the memory of Peter James Newman by his brother Chris and sister Pam. Peter died in 1993, aged 22. He had a deep interest in the philosophy, culture and spirituality of indigenous cultures.
For more than 25 years, the PNF has been dedicated to promoting the sustainability, development and enrichment of indigenous communities and cultures, supporting programs and projects in Central America and Australia.
Funded Programs and Projects
The Peter Newman Foundation seeks to build long-term partnerships and continues to fund programs and projects that empower Indigenous communities through:
Education, employment and enterprise development
Arts, culture, and community strengthening
Las Abejas Indigenous Women Empowerment Program
Since 2006, the Peter Newman Foundation has worked with Justin Coburn and Peace and Diversity Australia to provide funding for a range of programs to improve the lives of Mayan women in the Chiapas region of Southern Mexico.
Kokatha and Arabana Communities
The Peter Newman Foundation is working closely with the Kokatha and Arabana communities of central South Australia, supporting cultural and community development programs.
Women Rangers Indigenous Program
In 2025, the Foundation is supporting the growth of the Women’s Ranger Program through the Karrkad Kanjdji Trust (KKT) and its partner Indigenous organisations.
Ranger jobs in remote Australia have been demonstrated to significantly improve health and wellbeing, and increase pride and sense of self, while safeguarding vital ecosystems for future generations. Dedicated programs for women are critical to increase participation, and enable specific ecological knowledge to be applied and passed on the future generations.
Remote OpShop Project
The Remote OpShop Project is a social enterprise initiative that operates second-hand stores (Opportunity Shops) in remote Indigenous communities. It aims to provide affordable clothing and essential items while creating local employment, promoting community self-sufficiency and reducing waste.
The Peter Newman Foundation is supporting the expansion of the project across the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
