Our History
The Santos Foundation has a strong legacy of partnering with communities to improve lives.
Our journey began in 2011 as the Oil Search Health Foundation, with a strong focus on delivering health programs in PNG’s Gulf, Hela, and Southern Highlands Provinces.
In 2015, we became the Oil Search Foundation, expanding into leadership, education, and women’s empowerment. This transition marked a significant broadening of our scope and deepened our engagement with local communities.
Following the merger with Santos in 2021, we became the Santos Foundation, reaffirming and strengthening our commitment to the communities where Santos operates. Today, our reach extends beyond Papua New Guinea and into Australia, with expansion plans to Timor-Leste, and Alaska, reflecting Santos’ growing international footprint.
Who we are
The Santos Foundation’s mission is to invest in partnerships and local initiatives that help communities thrive.
We do this by focusing on activities that support our twin objectives to advance economic pathways and build resilient communities in the regions where Santos operates.
We work with communities, local partners and donors to address societal trends and local needs across four strategic pillars:
- Health
- Youth Opportunities
- Community Development
- Family & Sexual Violence
Our approach respects the political, cultural, social and legislative systems and frameworks of the countries in which we operate. We work to engage local leaders, align to national development priorities and foster opportunities for local businesses.
Our Mission
To invest in partnerships and local initiatives that help communities thrive.
Our Objectives
Building Resilient Communities
Supporting access to social infrastructure, systems and services that help build healthy communities.
Advancing Economic Pathways
Advancing skills, systems and infrastructure for communities to create economic opportunities
Our Values
Work as one team
Always Safe
Act with integrity
Be accountable
Pursue exceptional results
Build a better future
Our Guiding Principles
At the Santos Foundation, we are guided by four fundamental principles. These principles underpin our approach and serve as the cornerstone of our work, shaping our strategies and actions as we strive to make a positive and lasting impact.
Community Engagement
We work closely with local communities to build programs that respond to their needs. Where applicable, these programs are aligned to each country’s national development frameworks and priorities.
Partnership Driven
We recognise the power of partnerships in driving sustainable change. We actively seek collaborations with both local and global not-profit organisations, as well as governments and aid development agencies to address both broader societal trends and local needs.
Local and Global Impact
We want to leave a lasting positive legacy in the communities we serve. We also aim to contribute to national and global development challenges and make a difference on a broader scale.
Realistic Ambition
We work with communities to strengthen and build on existing systems. Our approach takes into account the unique challenges each community faces, ensuring that goals are achievable and sustainable over the long term.
Where We Operate
We operate in Papua New Guinea and Australia, and are working towards developing program activities in Timor-Leste and Alaska.
