Old phones, tablets and laptops often sit unused in drawers, cupboards, and office storage. But through an innovative and sustainable solution, that unused technology can help fund life-changing care for sick children, while also reducing environmental waste. 

Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) is proud to partner with PhoneCycle, an organisation transforming unwanted devices into meaningful impact. Through sustainable device reuse and buy-back programs, old tech is refurbished, resold or responsibly recycled, with funds raised supporting SCHF. 

To date, this partnership has raised more than $300,000 for SCHF, helping sick kids and their families have access to the best possible healthcare. 

At the same time, it has delivered significant environmental benefits, with more than 350,000 devices processed and over 63,000kg of e-waste diverted from landfill. 

It is a simple idea with powerful results: better outcomes for children and a lighter footprint on the planet.

How PhoneCycle delivers impact responsibly 

PhoneCycle works with hundreds of businesses across Australia on the ethical disposal and reuse of electronic equipment, including smartphones, tablets and laptops. 

To ensure complete peace of mind for participating organisations, all data-bearing devices are securely wiped using Blancco certified data erasure software, with individual data erasure certificates provided for every device processed. 

Participating organisations also receive a Sustainability Impact Report, outlining the environmental benefits of their donation, including devices reused, e-waste diverted from landfill and the broader circular economy impact. 

Turning unused devices into real outcomes 

Funds raised through PhoneCycle support initiatives across the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network (SCHN) – from new equipment, training and education to groundbreaking research and essential patient and family support services. 

For families navigating complex diagnoses and long hospital stays, access to world-class care and support can make an extraordinary difference. This funding helps deliver the tools, research and programs that can improve a child’s treatment journey and outcomes. 

A practical way for organisations to create meaningful change 

Recycling and reusing technology is an effective way to reduce environmental impact. By extending the life of devices and diverting e-waste from landfill, valuable materials remain in circulation and circular economy practices are strengthened. 

When environmental action is paired with charitable impact, it becomes even more powerful. Through PhoneCycle, technology that might otherwise go to waste generates meaningful social good – supporting children's health while reducing environmental impact. 

For workplaces and organisations, participating can also strengthen corporate social responsibility, aligning sustainability goals with tangible community impact while maintaining secure and auditable device disposal processes.

How you can get involved

Whether you’re clearing out your office drawer, upgrading devices at work, or reviewing technology across your organisation, your old tech could help change the future for sick kids.

By participating in PhoneCycle’s program, you’re helping reduce e-waste while supporting the care, research and innovation delivered across the SCHN.

To learn more about how to donate or recycle your devices, visit PhoneCycle or contact the SCHF team.