Giving the Gift of Freedom

Bike recipient Harry riding his custom bike

For nearly five decades, Freedom Solutions Australia has been designing, customising, and building technology and equipment that supports people living with disability to live more independent, fulfilling lives.  

 

One of its most inspiring initiatives is the Freedom Wheels program, built on a powerful belief: everyone deserves the freedom to ride. Freedom Wheels provides custom-made bikes and trikes for people of all ages, abilities, and mobility levels—making the joy of cycling accessible to those who might otherwise never experience it.

 

“Standard bikes often don’t meet the complex physical or therapeutic needs of people living with disability,” said Scott Miller, Freedom Solutions Australia CEO. “That’s where Freedom Wheels can help. Each bike is carefully crafted to suit the individual’s height, weight, physical capacity, and support requirements—ensuring safety, comfort, and fun with every ride.”

 

Thanks to the support of a Bank of Melbourne Foundation Thrive Community Grant, Freedom Solutions has already helped 19 children and young people living with disability to experience the joy of cycling this year. Whether it’s the thrill of pedalling independently for the first time or riding 15km around Uluru, each moment becomes a milestone—boosting confidence, independence, and motivation to achieve more.

 

Among those who received a custom bike this year is 9-year-old Harry, whose parents, Travis and Pia, have shared the impact it’s had on their lives. “Harry now has the freedom and independence to enjoy the simple pleasure of riding a bike, something he may never have been able to do,’ they said. 

 

“This incredible gift has not only brought a smile to Harry's face but has also created lasting memories for our family. It demonstrates the Bank of Melbourne Foundation’s dedication to supporting the community.” 

 

428 bikes have been delivered to people with disability across NSW and Victoria in the last 12 months—each one bringing joy, mobility and freedom.

 

Learn more about the life-changing work undertaken by Freedom Solutions here.

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Bank of Melbourne Foundation acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay respects to Elders past and present and celebrate the diversity of First Nations peoples and their ongoing cultures and connections to the lands and waters of Australia.

Bank of Melbourne Foundation is part of St.George Foundation. Donations to St.George Foundation are administered by St.George Foundation Limited as trustee for St George Foundation Trust (ABN 44 661 638 970). St George Foundation Trust is a Public Ancillary Fund, endorsed by the ATO as a Deductible Gift Recipient.

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