Although the COVID-19 pandemic has hit the oil and gas industry hard, majors Chevron, Woodside, and BP stepped up to provide support to Western Australia through donations and the establishment of community funds.
Chevron Australia announced a combined contribution of $2 million to assist community members and local businesses impacted by COVID-19.
The company developed the $1 million Onslow Relief Fund, to support the residents of Onslow near its Wheatstone natural gas facility.
“The Onslow community is at the heart of the work we do to power homes and essential industries across Western Australia with safe and reliable natural gas,” said Chevron Australia Managing Director Al Williams. “The Chevron Onslow Relief Fund is our commitment to lend a hand to local businesses and community members impacted by these uncertain and challenging times.”
Chevron Australia also pledged a further $1 million to the Australian Royal Flying Doctor Service, Foodbank WA and Lifeline WA through a collaborative industry effort led by the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA.
Woodside also committed to supporting Foodbank WA and Lifeline WA by establishing a $10 million COVID-19 Community Fund.
“It’s heartbreaking to see the steep increase in the number of people needing help during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Foodbank CEO Greg Hebble said. “We are using our grant from the Woodside COVID-19 Community Fund to change the way that we work so we can continue to provide food to those in crisis while keeping everybody safe.”
Woodside is working with community stakeholders and local authorities to identify ways to respond to areas of need.
“As part of the Community Fund, we are seeking applications from not-for-profit organisations in the WA communities where we live and work,” the company said.
“Our employees are also supporting organisations caring for the community through our workplace giving initiative.
“All employee donations are dollar-matched by Woodside and will fund Foodbank WA, Lifeline WA and Salvation Army Karratha.”
BP is showing its support for health care workers across Australia by offering a free drink for health care workers, which they can pick up once per day from participating Wild Bean Cafes.
The company has also provided fuel cards to St John Ambulance to keep its fleet on the move.
“As their work is now more important than ever, we’re helping St John volunteers get their ambulances to where they are needed most,” BP said.
“The safety and well-being of our customers, employees, suppliers and the broader community is our utmost priority.”