Mercedes-Benz Awarded for its Support in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – October 29, 2008: The Victorian Aids Council (VAC) has awarded Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific its coveted GENERAL COMMUNITY AWARD at the 2008 VAC Annual General Meeting.

The Executive Director of the VAC Mr. Mike Kennedy said “The Victorian Aids Council welcomes this partnership with Mercedes-Benz and we congratulate them on their good citizenship policy and their engagement with disadvantaged local communities. Mercedes-Benz has been a generous supporter of Victorian Aids Council, having provided a Viano for the last two years free of charge as well as being the major sponsor of both the Short and Girly comedy show fundraisers. They are an excellent example of a partnership between a major international corporation and a community based organization, a partnership that has delivered significant benefits for Victorian Aids Council clients and the clients of other Victorian People Living With HIV/AIDS organizations who have had access to the Viano for client camps and outings”

“This very generous support by Mercedes-Benz is recognized by the AIDS Council. By forming partnerships with businesses focusing on improving the lives and engagement of positive people adds a vital component of the work of the council” Mr. Kennedy said. The President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific, Mr. Wolfgang D Schrempp said “One of the key principles of Mercedes-Benz is to participate in and contribute to the local communities where we do business. Mercedes-Benz is firmly committed to the concept of corporate citizenship. This philosophy encompasses all stakeholders, communities, customers and business partners. We are proud to be able to support the work of the Victorian Aids Council and to provide real on the ground support for their clients”