Deputy Premier John Watkins today announced the Iemma Government has joined with
Optus to co-sponsor The Wiggles concert for UNICEF which will raise funds for water and
sanitation projects for vulnerable children in East Timor.
Mr Watkins said the show at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Sunday May 25 will raise
money to help improve living standards for children attending five schools and villages in the
East Timorese districts of Ermera and Liquica.
“I’m pleased the Iemma Government has the opportunity to be part of such a worthy project
that will help some of the world’s most vulnerable people in one of the world’s poorest
countries.
“We often take for granted that in NSW we have easy access to life’s essentials like safe
water and sanitisation facilities. It’s important to recognise that not all children have that and
we do what we can to help,” he said.
The Iemma Government and Optus have each donated $20,000 to sponsor the concert
which will feature special guests Jimmy Barnes, Kate Ceberano, Beccy Cole, Damien Leith,
The McClymonts, Katie Noonan, Leo Sayer and Ross Wilson.
Mr Watkins said The Wiggles will donate all profits from the show to the UNICEF project,
including all profits from ticket sales and merchandise.
“I commend Optus and The Wiggles for supporting the important work of UNICEF in helping
to provide the children of East Timor with safe water and basic sanitisation,” he said.
Optus Chief Executive Paul O’Sullivan said he was very pleased to support the show.
“As an employer of more than 10,000 people throughout Australia, we believe we have a
responsibility to help people in need and support worthy causes,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“I’m delighted to be working with the Iemma Government, and one of Australia’s greatest
exports, The Wiggles, in supporting work to reduce child mortality.
“It just shows you what can be achieved when the resources of government and the private
sector can be teamed up to provide basic essentials for needy children,” he said.
The Wiggles were named UNICEF Australia Goodwill Ambassadors in February this year.
Since then they have embarked on a number of activities and events to assist in raising
awareness and funds for some vital UNICEF projects.
