Australians are being encouraged to give pre-loved toys a second life through a new national campaign led by The Walt Disney Company Australia, Save the Children and Reading Cinemas.
The Toy Rehoming initiative invites people to donate quality second-hand toys, books, puzzles and games at Toy Story 5 themed collection booths located in Reading Cinemas foyers across Australia. Donations should be clean, in good working order and suitable for children.
The campaign aims to support Save the Children’s fundraising efforts while reducing the number of toys sent to landfill. Donated items will be distributed through the organisation’s network of op shops, with proceeds helping to fund programs for children and families.
Save the Children Australia Chief Executive Officer Mat Tinker said the partnership would help provide practical support for children while encouraging families to recycle toys that are no longer being used.
“When toys are donated, they begin new adventures through our retail stores all over Australia, helping to raise vital funds for Save the Children’s life-changing work,” he said.
Tinker said money raised through the initiative would support the organisation’s Play2Learn program, which uses guided play to help young children develop literacy, numeracy, social and emotional skills before starting school.
The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Corporate Social Responsibility Senior Manager Kate Brent said the Toy Story films had introduced generations of children to characters that celebrate friendship and imaginative play.
“We’re proud to support this toy donation drive with Save the Children and Reading Cinemas,” she said. “This initiative gives kids in need the opportunity to experience the wonder of toys and to enrich their lives through imaginative play.”
Reading Cinemas Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Mark Douglas said cinema staff across the country were looking forward to collecting donations from local communities.
“Our cinema teams look forward to collecting toy donations on their behalf to help make play possible for every child regardless of their circumstances,” he said.
The campaign comes as charities continue to encourage Australians to donate usable household items rather than discard them. Reusing toys can help reduce waste while extending the life of products that remain safe and suitable for children.
Families are encouraged to donate educational toys, building blocks, puzzles, children’s books, plush toys in good condition, board games and creative play items.
The initiative also builds anticipation for Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5, which is scheduled to open in Australian cinemas on 18 June 2026. The film reunites Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie and the rest of the familiar characters as they face the growing influence of technology on children’s play.
People interested in taking part can drop off donations at participating Reading Cinemas and check with their local cinema for collection details.
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