This Starlight Day, taking place on Tuesday 19 May, we’re shining a light on the importance of bringing laughter and happiness to sick children going through a tough time. 

To celebrate, we’re contributing a total of $350,000 to the Starlight Children’s Foundation, with $250,000 going towards the Starlight Wishgranting Program thanks to Golden Casket unclaimed prize money, and $100,000 to the Healthier Futures Initiative through Tatts NT. These donations are designed to ensure children and families facing illness can experience moments of joy, hope and connection, no matter where they live. 

Thanks to the contribution to the Starlight Wishgranting Program, 33 dreams will be transformed into reality, giving children life-changing experiences that lift spirits in difficult times.

Our ongoing $100,000 commitment to the Healthier Futures Initiative enables Captain Starlight to visit remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, bringing happiness into clinical settings and making healthcare feel accessible and welcoming for children. Captain Starlight’s visits create a positive ripple effect. By transforming hospitals into a fun, joyful experience, children are more likely to participate in essential health check-ups, while families feel more engaged in their local healthcare system. 

“At Starlight, we meet families on some of their hardest days, and we also see how powerful a single moment of joy can be for a sick child’s confidence and wellbeing. The Lott has been a valued partner in helping us deliver that hope,” said Doreen Smith, Partnerships Executive at Starlight Children’s Hospital.

“This Starlight Day, their generous support will help us grant more Starlight Wishes and bring Captain Starlight to children and families who need it most, in hospitals and in remote communities.”

The Lott Partnerships Manager Liz McPherson said both the Wishgranting Program and Healthier Futures Initiative deliver hope during life’s most challenging moments.

“Every child should have the chance to smile, no matter their circumstances. We’re honoured to stand with Starlight and celebrate their mission on Starlight Day,” she said.

In addition to our donations, our support extends even further. The Lott retailers nationwide will decorate their stores in Starlight’s signature purple and yellow colours, encouraging community members to contribute in-store to the charity. The Lott will also be matching donations up to $10,000 in total.

You too could also help by purchasing a Play For Purpose charity raffle ticket in support of Starlight. Not only will 50 per cent of your ticket cost go directly to the charity, but you could also go in the draw to win a First Prize Pack! It’s a win for you and for the families who benefit from Starlight’s work.