Compassion is more than an idea.
It is a practice we
live every day.
Guided by the teachings of Buddha and inspired by our founder, Dharma Master Cheng Yen, we turn goodwill into meaningful action. We care for the sick, support families in need, protect the environment, respond to disasters, and nurture kindness in everyday life.
Across Australia, including Brisbane and communities throughout Queensland, Tzu Chi volunteers quietly serve with sincerity, humility, and respect. We help without conditions, give without expectation, and walk alongside those we serve as equals.
Small acts, when done consistently, relieve suffering and transform lives.
What we do
Six missions,
one belief
Tzu Chi’s work in Australia is part of a global humanitarian effort active in more than 139 countries and regions. Our missions are interconnected, guided by respect for life and faith in human goodness:
The Tzu Chi Foundation’s core framework is built upon the Four Major Missions: Charity, Medicine, Education, and Humanistic Culture.
- Tzu Chi's Eight Footprints
While these represent the primary four branches, they are often referred to collectively alongside four additional areas of focus—together making up "Four Missions, Eight Footprints":
- International Relief
- Bone Marrow Donation
- Environmental Protection
- Community Volunteerism
Environmental Protection
Encouraging sustainable living through recycling initiatives, tree planting, plant-based lifestyle education and environmental programmes that help protect our planet for future generations.
Charity
Supporting individuals and families experiencing hardship through food relief, financial assistance, refugee support, home visits, case management and ongoing community care.
Humanistic Culture
Promoting compassion, gratitude, respect and kindness through volunteer service, cultural activities and values-based education that strengthen individuals and communities.
Education
Empowering people through scholarships, tutoring, youth leadership programmes and lifelong learning opportunities that foster knowledge, confidence and community resilience.
Medical & Health Services
Providing inclusive medical, dental and allied health services through outreach clinics, free community healthcare programmes and volunteer-led initiatives that improve access to care for underserved communities.
Disaster Relief
Delivering timely emergency assistance, practical relief and long-term recovery support to communities affected by floods, bushfires and other disasters across Australia.
Our impact
Numbers that tell
a human story
These figures represent more than statistics — they are lives touched, suffering eased, and hope restored. Through the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of donors, Tzu Chi Australia serves with dignity and care.
Free Medical & Dental Treatments Provided (2002–2023)
Medical & Dental Treatments through Inclusive Health Clinics (2017–2023)
Charity Beneficiaries Supported (2011–2023)
Countries & regions worldwide
The spirit that guides us
The Bamboo
Bank Spirit
Inspired by the Bamboo Bank tradition, we believe great compassion grows from small, consistent acts. We help without conditions and walk alongside those we serve — not above them, not apart from them, but as equals.
- A single coin saved each day
Small, consistent giving transforms communities over time
- A helping hand offered without judgment
We serve all people with dignity, sincerity, and respect
- A kind thought shared at the right moment
Compassion grows quietly, steadily, and sincerely
"
It is a practice we live every day. Compassion is more than an idea.
Dharma Master Cheng Yen — Founder, Tzu Chi Foundation
- Dharma Master Cheng Yen
Founder of Tzu Chi Foundation — guiding compassion in action since 1966, in over 139 countries worldwide.
You are welcome here
A sincere heart
is all you need
Whether you wish to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more — you are welcome. You do not need wealth, special skills, or prior experience. Together, we can build kinder communities and a more peaceful world.
- Become a volunteer
No experience needed — just a willingness to help and a kind heart
- Make a donation
Every contribution, however small, helps transform lives across Australia
- Get in touch
Reach out to your nearest Tzu Chi chapter to learn how to get involved
Acknowledgement of Country
Tzu Chi acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture.