Our founders: The Martin family

The Foundation was established in 1990 in honour of Sir David Martin.

Sir David Martin

Rear Admiral Sir David James Martin, KCMG, AO (15 April 1933-10 August 1990) was a senior officer of the Royal Australian Navy and later Governor of New South Wales. During his time as Governor, he set about establishing a relationship between his office as governor and the people of New South Wales, becoming known as ‘the people’s Governor’.

David Martin was educated at the Scots College, Sydney, then joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1947 and graduated in 1950. After a long and distinguished naval career he retired in February 1988, with the rank of Rear Admiral.

During his time as Governor of NSW, Sir David Martin witnessed many young people caught in the destructive world of drugs, alcohol, homelessness and abuse. Whenever he met them, he sought to encourage them to develop their undiscovered potential so they may better their lives.

Just three days before his death, Martin resigned as Governor due to an advancing medical condition. He made arrangements for Sir David Martin Foundation to be established, to help disadvantaged young Australians. He passed away three days later.

Anna, Sir David, Susie and Sandy as Sir David was awarded Father of the Year

Gunner's Mate First Class V.W. Allen explains operations inside the No. 1 gun turret aboard the battleship USS MISSOURI (BB 63) to Rear Admiral (RDML) (upper half) D.J. Martin, Royal Australian Navy, left; K.C. Beazley, minister of defense, center; and Vice Admiral (VADM) M.W. Hudson, Royal Australian Navy, right. The ship is on a port visit during a cruise around the world.

“Strength is more sensible than weakness, happiness is more enjoyable than misery, honesty simpler to stick to than dishonesty, having an aim is more fun than drifting, building is healthier than knocking, knowledge is more useful than ignorance, unselfishness is warmer than selfishness, making friends is a better investment than making enemies. So – decide what is worthwhile in life, and go for it with all your might – then you’ll be worthy of your forefathers.”
Sir David Martin

“What caring community could possibly watch its own kids living in the streets and gutters? … What do the kids see as they look at the country they will inherit?”
Sir David Martin

“We must be constant ambassadors for a cleaner, more honest, happy and sincere society.”
Sir David Martin

“History is not just for us to read and learn – it is also to make… Please have faith in your own ability to influence that history; have courage to exert a good influence and generosity to share it.”
Sir David Martin

“Peace is precious, but it is not inevitable or automatic – it is not a right… If we really want peace we have to struggle for it every day.”
Sir David Martin

“All these youngsters living away from their homes, in the back streets, the tunnels and the gutters, existing on a diet of drugs, violence, sickness and disease, cold, hopelessness and loneliness. That's a big mess to clean... These children are our most important assets for Australia's future, yet we are carelessly squandering those assets.”
Sir David Martin

“There are a lot of attitudes to clean up in our multicultural Australia. The most important step is the traditional Australian custom of letting everyone have a fair go.”
Sir David Martin

The Martin family

When Sir David passed away in 1990, his beloved wife Lady Martin established the Foundation in honour of his legacy. Sir David and Lady Martin had been married since 1957, and had three children together: Sandy, Anna and William.

Since establishing Sir David Martin Foundation, Lady Martin has been heavily involved. She sat on the Board of Governors from 1990-2024, was active in decision making and contributed greatly to fundraising events.

Captain William Martin RAN (Rtd), Sir David and Lady Martin’s son, is Chair of the Foundation. His career started at the Royal Australian Naval College in 1982 and his final role was Commanding Officer of HMAS Watson. he is a professional speaker, certified Organisational and Team Coach, and the Director of Waterline Leadership.

Anna Beaumont, the daughter of Sir David and Lady Martin, has always been an integral part of the Foundation. Starting as a Fundraising Coordinator in 2011 and later excelling in the role of Philanthropy Manager until her retirement in 2023, Anna forged deep connections with donors, staff, and the young beneficiaries of our programs throughout her 12-year tenure. Now, as a member of the Board, Anna continues to champion her father’s vision.

Their sister, Sandy is also involved and has supported the Foundation as it has grown over the years.

Our founders: The Martin family

The Foundation was established in 1990 in honour of Sir David Martin.

Sir David Martin

The Martin family

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