Bank of Sydney has announced its back-to-school tech donation drive, in partnership with The Reconnect Project, to help close the digital divide for disadvantaged school-age children.
Currently, there are nearly 1.2 million young people in Australia without access to a digital device to support their education [1]. Meanwhile, Australians on average produce 20kgs of e-waste, compared to the global average of 7kg, with volumes expected to rise by nearly 30% by 2030 [2].
Bank of Sydney invites Australians across the country to donate pre-loved tech including laptops, smart phones, and tablets. Devices that have been factory reset can be dropped off at any Bank of Sydney branch or delivered to one of The Reconnect Project’s authorised donation stations. Alternatively, donations can be mailed directly to The Reconnect Project by requesting a reply-paid postage label from Bank of Sydney.
In September 2025, The Reconnect Project was recognised through Bank of Sydney’s Grant for Good program, enabling it to expand its work refurbishing technology, supporting disadvantaged Australians, and providing vital first jobs for neurodivergent youth.
The Reconnect Project refurbishes donated laptops, tablets and smart phones, diverting them from landfill and re-homing them with families, individuals and community groups across Australia in need. The organisation also trains and employs neurodivergent young adults as technicians, offering vital first jobs and a safe environment to learn, upskill, and gain confidence.
“This is more than an opportunity to recycle your unused tech, these devices could give Australia’s youngest and brightest a fair chance at school,” said Bank of Sydney’s Acting CEO, Kieran McKenna.
“The reality is children now require a device to get a fair education and a good start in life, but as cost-of-living pressures rise, many families are doing it tough. We’re proud to support community organisations like The Reconnect Project that make a real, lasting difference to the communities we live in, and help to ensure children have the resources they need to learn and thrive.”
The Reconnect Project CEO, Annette Brodie said, “Every child deserves the chance to learn and thrive, but without a device, so many are being left behind. As many Australians upgrade their tech ahead of the new school year, now is the perfect time to help by donating your old laptop, tablet or phone that can make a real difference for a child who needs it.
“Access to the right tools opens the door to endless opportunities for a child’s future. We’re grateful for Bank of Sydney’s support in helping us tackle both the digital divide among school children and Australia’s fastest-growing waste stream.”
About The Reconnect Project:
The Reconnect Project partners with more than 170 social service organisations, including Vinnies, Barnardos, and Glebe Youth Services to distribute its refurbished devices.
Founded in 2019 by Annette Brodie, it has grown from a $5,000 crowdfunding campaign to a thriving team of nine, and storefront in Penshurst. It’s simple motto: small actions have big impact. For donations of pre-loved devices or more information, visit https://thereconnectproject.com.au/
[1] https://www.telstra.com.au/connected/communities/telstra-foundation-australian-youth-digital-index#:~:text=While%20most%20young%20people%20have,scores%20than%20their%20city%20peers.
[2] https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/waste/e-waste
