Today, Cathay welcomes Perth-based not-for-profit, Wheelchairs For Kids Australia (WFKA), as a local charity partner, allowing Cathay members to donate Asia Miles to help deliver wheelchairs to children around the world.

There is a global shortage of wheelchairs for children living in developing countries, with upwards of 10 million needed right now. WFKA builds and ships these essential items free of charge to those who need it most. Since its inception in 1998, the organisation has delivered over 66,000 all-terrain wheelchairs to 80 countries worldwide.

Supported by a workforce of more than 250 regular volunteers with an average age of 74 years old, WFKA manufactures the wheelchairs out of its Perth factory to a unique, locally developed design.

One of its volunteers, Brother Thomas Oliver (Olly) Pickett AM, was named as Senior Australian of the Year this year. Having worked with the organisation for over 25 years, he played a pivotal role in the development of its innovative, low-cost wheelchair design that meets World Health Organisation standards. As a result, the wheelchairs are durable, fully adjustable and can grow with the child.

Through Cathay’s partnership with WFKA, Cathay members can select elements of these wheelchairs or choose to donate the whole set up through Asia Miles. With donations starting from 3,140 Miles (A$30) for a front tray, basket and toy kit, all the way to the entire wheelchair with toys and a rug for 31,420 Miles (A$300), there is an option for everyone to support this worthy cause.

Frosti Lau, Cathay Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia & Oceania, says of the partnership: “As an international airline based in Hong Kong, we are committed to being a force of positivity within the communities we serve, embracing our unique role in bringing people, cultures and places together and helping individuals move forward in life. Youth development is at the heart of our mission, together with the advancement and enrichment of sports, arts and culture. Our commitment to Perth for the last 55 years along with our desire to support children across our network makes this partnership a great union. ​

“The team at Wheelchairs For Kids Australia does an incredible job of supplying wheelchairs to children in developing countries. It is an honour to be able to support them as a charity partner through our members here in Australia, New Zealand and around the world. As we head into the end of the year and a time of giving, we are asking our members to donate and help change the life of another child in need”.

Greg Hebble, CEO of Wheelchairs For Kids Australia said the organisation is thrilled to be partnering with Cathay. “Through the Asia Miles program, we hope to create greater awareness to the plight of children in developing countries who cannot access a wheelchair. For just A$300 we can change that and give these kids mobility, dignity and hope for a brighter future”.

To donate, please visit the Cathay Shop here to select your donation level and support WFKA today. The partnership runs until 31 August, 2026.